With just two months to go until hundreds of runners take to the streets of Solihull, Acorns Children’s Hospice has been named as the official charity partner for the market town’s biggest annual run– turning this much-loved event into an unforgettable day of fundraising.

Whether you’re chasing a new personal best or jogging with friends, #TeamAcorns is calling on runners of all abilities to lace up their trainers and hit the ground running at this year’s Run Solihull 2025 to help raise vital funds for local children with life limiting and life threatening conditions.

Taking place on Sunday 10 August, this high-energy event – organised by RunThrough – features a half marathon, 5k and a children’s race, making it the perfect way for the whole family to get involved and give back.

Man wearing #TeamAcorns vest running

Sophie Boreham, Events Manager at Acorns, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be the official charity partner once again for Run Solihull. But this is more than just a run – it’s an exciting opportunity for the people of Solihull to come together and make a real difference.

“Every mile run for #TeamAcorns helps us continue our vital work supporting local children and their families. Your support means we can be there for them when they need us most.

“We can’t wait to see the sea of colourful Acorns vests out in full force on the day. Let’s make this year the biggest and most impactful yet!”

#TeamAcorns female runner does peace signs as she runs at Run Solihull

By joining #TeamAcorns, runners will receive a bespoke package of support from the charity, including a limited edition Acorns running vest, tailored training and fundraising ideas, a unique themed medal and free official race photos to remember the day.

Matt Wood, Co-Founder of RunThrough, said: “It’s an honour to welcome Acorns Children’s Hospice back as the official charity partner for Run Solihull 2025. Their passion for supporting families through incredibly tough times truly resonates with our team and our running community.

“Sophie and the Acorns team are absolutely right. This is more than just a run. It’s a chance for people across Solihull to come together, challenge themselves, and raise vital funds for a cause that makes an incredible difference every single day. We can’t wait to see a wave of #TeamAcorns runners fill the streets this August.”

Starting and finishing in Malvern Park, in Solihull Town Centre, the event is a unique opportunity to run the closed roads of Solihull. Adding to the fun, there will also be a fun-filled event village open on the day, where participants can expect live performances, bag storage, charity stalls, food and drink vendors and plenty of toilets to use before you head off onto the course.

Runners for #TeamAcorns are being asked to raise a minimum sponsorship amount which goes directly to supporting Acorns care for local children and their families.

Sophie added: “What are you waiting for? Sign up today for free to be part of something truly special whilst helping to support seriously ill children and their families. We can’t wait to cheer you on!”

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

#TeamAcorns runner throws hands in the air at Run Solihull

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with as much as 72% of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

Join #TeamAcorns at Run Solihull

Birmingham-born chef and entrepreneur Aktar Islam has become the latest high-profile figure to join Acorns Children’s Hospice as one of its esteemed patrons.

A multiple award-winning chef, restauranteur and founder of the two-Michelin-starred Opheem, Aktar is uniting with the charity to support its work in providing vital care for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions across the West Midlands.

Welcoming Aktar to the Acorns family

The winner of Gordon Ramsay’s The F Word and founder of Aktar at Home said: “I’m incredibly proud to be part of the Acorns family as a patron of Acorns Children’s Hospice.

“It’s a truly fantastic cause and I feel honoured to support the vital work they do for children and families facing the most challenging circumstances.”

His appointment marks a significant moment for the West Midlands charity, as Acorns continue to expand its community of prominent supporters to help raise awareness and crucial funds.

A proud father and lifelong Brummie, Aktar brings not only his culinary prestige to the role, but also his passion for championing children’s causes and community initiatives – he is especially recognised for his support of young people.

Prior engagement with Acorns

Aktar’s relationship with Acorns began in 2024, when he lent his voice to the charity’s Children’s Care Matters campaign, which called on the government to renew critical funding for children’s hospices. Here, Aktar joined an event in Birmingham city centre gathering petition signatures and shared a heartfelt video appeal encouraging public support.

Earlier this year, Aktar demonstrated his ongoing commitment to the charity by donating a bespoke culinary experience to Acorns This Town Gala Dinner auction – a luxurious package featuring premium selections from his trusted suppliers, which helped raise crucial funds for the charity.

Photo of silent auction brochure sitting on table.

His philosophy

Deb Chandos-Hall, Head of Philanthrophy and Partnerships at Acorns, said: “We’re delighted to officially welcome Aktar as our newest patron, joining a distinguished group of supporters including award-winning director Steven Knight and Deputy Lieutenant of West Midlands Ninder Johal. His influence, both here in the West Midlands and nationally, is phenomenal – but it’s his values that truly align with our mission.

“His pioneering spirit mirrors our innovative approach to children’s palliative care. Aktar’s personal philosophy that ‘you can’t change the world, but you can change a bit of it’ reflects the heart of what we do at Acorns – that even the smallest acts of kindness can leave a lasting impact.

“As a dad himself, his commitment to supporting children and families is deeply meaningful. We know he’ll be an inspiring and powerful advocate for our work.”

Aktar’s journey from winning The F Word with Gordon Ramsay in 2009 to achieving his second Michelin star at Opheem in 2024 has made him one of the most celebrated chefs in the UK. Today, Opheem stands among only four Indian restaurants worldwide – and the only one outside London – to hold two Michelin stars.

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

Donate to Acorns today by visiting www.acorns.org.uk/donate

This summer, Walsall Arboretum will once again come alive with colour, laughter and bubbles, as hundreds of people gather for Bubble Rush 2025 – the much-loved annual family fun run from Acorns Children’s Hospice. It’s a highlight in the local calendar, where family and friends can enjoy a vibrant day out while raising vital funds for seriously ill children.

But for one family in particular, this year’s Bubble Rush is so much more than a fun day out. For Georgia Pearson and her family, it’s set to be a day they’ll never forget as they will be running the course with a very special team mate – their 8-month-old son, Harrison. It’s a chance for the family to celebrate being together after an incredibly tough start to Harrison’s life.

Harrison’s story

In 2024, Georgia and her partner, Mat, were overjoyed to learn they was expecting twin boys. But their joy turned to heartbreak when complications arose, and devastatingly, their son Oscar died in the womb. The trauma triggered Georgia’s premature labour, and Harrison was born at just 26 weeks – more than three months early.

The family then faced 129 agonising days in neonatal intensive care, battling through what Georgia describes as the most difficult period of their lives.

“There were serious issues from the start, especially with Harrison’s lungs,” Georgia shared. “At one point, things were so bad that we had a Do Not Resuscitate order (DNR) in place. It’s something no parent ever imagines having to do.”

It was during this time that Harrison was diagnosed with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia – a life limiting chronic lung condition requiring 100 per cent oxygen support around the clock. At just three months old, the family were given the devastating news that it was likely Harrison wouldn’t survive.

Baby Harrison with oxygen tube.
Baby Harrison in NICU

Life with Acorns

This is when the family were introduced to Acorns for end-of-life care, stepping in at a time when the family needed them most.

At first, Georgia was hesitant. “I didn’t want to go. I associated hospices with death and couldn’t imagine my baby belonging there.”

But a visit to Acorns in the Black Country changed everything.

“It was completely different from what I expected – friendly, warm, full of life and light.”

Thankfully tiny Harrison’s condition stabilised. But Acorns remains an important part of the family’s life, just as they were whilst Harrison was in hospital, offering practical help and emotional lifelines during their darkest days.

“The staff were amazing,” Georgia said. “They cuddled Harrison, painted with him and helped us create beautiful memories with clay hand and footprints. They were always there.”

“We would not have got through that time without Acorns. They were a godsend really.”

Now, with Harrison finally home, Acorns nurses who Georgia describes as ‘absolute angels’, visits twice a month, providing crucial support, specialist care, playtime, and giving Georgia the breathing space she needs.

“It’s just nice having someone to talk to, someone who gets it and has seen it with several families – that’s quite rare. With Acorns, I don’t have to be a ‘medical mum’ – I can just be mum. They care about me just as much as they care about Harrison and that’s so rare.”

The perfect way to give back

So, when Georgia first heard about Bubble Rush, she knew it was the perfect way to give back.

“I wanted to raise money for Acorns. People were suggesting things like a skydive, but I wanted something that Harrison could also take part in. I knew Bubble Rush would be ideal.”

“I’ll be running with him in the carrier. He loves the sensory pool and mats at Acorns, so I know he’ll absolutely love the colourful foam bubbles!”

Already, Georgia is smashing her fundraising target, raising an incredible £1,760 to support other families like hers.

“Harrison’s future is still uncertain. But what Acorns has given us – the memories and the support – it’s hard to put into words what that’s meant to us. We want other families to receive that same love and care.”

“I know somewhere down the line another family will be in our position. The money we raise might pay for them to stay the night at Acorns, just like someone else’s fundraising helped us. That’s really special.”

Every penny raised at Bubble Rush, which is sponsored by leading West Midlands law firm Talbots Law, will go directly towards Acorns care for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

Sign up to Bubble Rush today and help Acorns be there for more children and families like Harrison’s.

Tickets are priced £16.50 for adults, £12 for children (3-15) and £4 for those under 3. Family tickets (two adults, two children) are available, priced £50.

Ticket fees cover the cost of putting on the event, and participants are encouraged to raise a minimum of £15 in sponsorship per person – helping Acorns to continue providing its specialist care when it’s needed most.

Get your Bubble Rush tickets

An award-winning West Midlands law firm is bursting with ‘pride’ after backing one of the region’s most popular charity events this summer – for the third year running.

Acorns Bubble Rush is back for 2025, with Talbots Law as its main sponsor. The foamy fundraiser, from Acorns Children’s Hospice, will see hundreds of people bursting through walls of coloured foam in a fun course at Walsall Arboretum, all while raising vital funds for the charity’s lifeline care for local children and families.

Talbots Law, a full-service law firm with offices across the Midlands, will be the headline sponsor for the family-friendly 5k on Sunday 20th July.

A daughter and mom enjoying yellow bubbles during Bubble Rush

Sophie Boreham, Events Manager at Acorns, said: “We are overjoyed to welcome Talbots Law back as our main sponsor for Bubble Rush 2025. Their continued support helps us raise the essential funds we need to provide care for seriously ill children and support for their families.

“Events like this are not only full of joy and community spirit, but they also have a real impact for these families. Help can’t wait – and thanks to wonderful businesses like Talbots Law, we can be there when families need us most.”

In 2023, Talbots Law ‘proudly’ named Acorns Children’s Hospice as its official charity of choice. This marked the beginning of a three-year partnership, chosen by a vote by employee owners as part of their commitment as an employee-owned business.

Dave Hodgetts, Chief Executive of Talbots Law, said: “Bubble Rush has become a key date in our business calendar and we are delighted to be returning as lead sponsor of the event for the third year in a row.

“We are firm believers in the power of giving back and it is a privilege to be able to contribute, so that as much money as possible can be donated to the children and families who rely on the incredible support that Acorns provide.”

Acorns Bubble Rush promises four giant bubble stations, blasting out 4ft-high waves of rainbow-coloured foam. With hundreds of participants joining in on the fun each year, this year’s event is poised to be the most exciting yet, offering an unmissable opportunity for the community to get involved, have fun, and give back.

Tickets are priced £16.50 for adults, £12 for children (3-15) and £4 for those under 3. Family tickets (two adults, two children) are available, priced £50.

Ticket fees cover the cost of putting on the event, and participants are encouraged to raise a minimum of £15 in sponsorship per person – helping Acorns to continue providing its specialist care when it’s needed most.

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

Get your Bubble Rush tickets

Billions of bubbles and a whole lot of fun – Acorns Children’s Hospice is bringing its biggest-ever Bubble Rush to the Black Country this summer, and you’re invited to join the foamy festivities at a special early bird price.

On Sunday 20 July, Walsall Arboretum will be transformed into a spectacular sea of colour as families, friends and teams take on a bubbly 5k course like no other, all while raising vital funds for seriously ill children.

And to celebrate, the West Midlands charity is offering early bird discounts on tickets booked before Tuesday 6 May – making it the perfect time to secure your spot and save.

Woman carrying a little girl on her back through yellow bubbles.

Sophie Boreham, Events Manager at Acorns, said: “Every year Bubble Rush just gets bigger and better – and this summer, we’re going all out with more bubbles, more fun, and more memorable moments! We can’t wait to see everyone come together for a truly unforgettable day.

“Tickets are on sale now with a special offer for those who are quick to secure them. As well as a fantastic day out for all the family, you’ll be helping to fund lifeline care that children and families in our community desperately need.”

The frothy 5k promises four giant bubble stations, blasting out 4ft-high waves of rainbow-coloured foam. With hundreds of participants joining in on the fun each year, this year’s event is poised to be the most exciting yet, offering an unmissable opportunity for people to get involved, have fun, and give back to the community.

Sophie added: “It’s definitely a fun run with a difference – but it’s not a race. You can walk, jog, skip or toddle your way around with your friends, family, your children and your grandparents.

“No matter how you choose to take on the bubbles, the most important thing is that you finish with a smile on your face!”

Early bird tickets for Acorns Bubble Rush are priced £15 for adults, £10 for children (3-15) and £4 for those under 3. Family tickets (two adults, two children) are available, priced £45.

Ticket fees cover the cost of putting on the event, and participants are encouraged to raise a minimum of £15 in sponsorship per person – helping Acorns to continue providing its specialist care when it’s needed most.

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, therapeutic interventions, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with as much as 72% of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

Get your Bubble Rush tickets

For the first time ever, six leading children’s hospices are coming together to shine a global spotlight on children’s hospice care with a once-in-a-lifetime trek through the breathtaking Indian Himalayas.

Acorns Children’s Hospice is reaching for new heights with this extraordinary expedition, offering a select few the opportunity to embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of the Indian Himalayas and Dharamshala, home of the Dalai Lama.

The West Midlands charity will be joined by five other children’s charities: Children’s Hospice South West, Demelza, Helen & Douglas House, Naomi House & Jacksplace and Shooting Star Children’s Hospices. These charities all provide vital care and support for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions.

Acorns supporters are being encouraged to sign up for the event and help the charity continue its life-changing care for seriously ill children and their families.

What to expect

Sophie Boreham, Events Manager at Acorns, said: “We are beyond thrilled to be teaming up with five other incredible children’s hospice charities to offer a lucky few individuals the adventure of a lifetime.

“Along the way, Acorns adventurers will experience breathtaking landscapes, including lush green forests, snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, gushing rivers and charming villages with warm and welcoming locals – all while raising vital funds for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions.”

Taking place from 3 – 11 October 2026, this incredible journey will take trekkers into the Lesser Himalayan range of Northern India. Over four days of hiking, adventurers will cover approximately 14km per day, reaching a maximum altitude of 2,841m at Triund.

Keen trekkers can find out more about this special and unique event by joining the free online information evening on 30 April, where they can hear directly from the trek organisers and ask any questions before signing up.

Registration costs £395, with those who sign up before 30 June 2025 receiving an exclusive 10% discount off their registration fee.

Participants are being asked to raise a minimum sponsorship amount of £3,900 or just £1,785, depending on the package they select, with all funds going towards supporting Acorns vital work in providing care for seriously ill children and support for their families.

Sophie added: “For every individual who meets the minimum sponsorship target, Acorns could help pay for a group of 60 siblings to go on an exciting trip of their own or fund two syringe driver machines – a crucial tool for delivering medication and managing a child’s pain.

“Join us for the trip of a lifetime and help make a lasting impact on the lives of seriously ill children.”

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

To sign up to the free information evening and get more details, visit www.acorns.org.uk/himalayastrek or contact the Acorns Events team via events@acorns.org.uk or call 01564 825 037.

Join the Himalayas Trek

As Walsall fans gather at Bescot Stadium this Saturday (5 April), the match against Port Vale will be a crucial one in the Saddlers’ promotion battle. But for one family of devoted fans, this game holds an even deeper significance.

Brothers Ethan and Eli, whose family has been supported by Walsall FC’s charity partner, Acorns Children’s Hospice, will take to the pitch as mascots. And in a very special way, their brother, Ezra, will be joining them.

They are there as part of Acorns Matchday Takeover, a day that will not only raise vital funds for the hospice but also ensure that Ezra’s memory continues to shine brightly.

John, Eli, Ethan and Suzanne together

Ezra’s family do everything they can to keep his memory alive. When his brothers walk onto the pitch on Saturday, they will be carrying Ezra’s teddy bear – which holds his ashes – close to their hearts.

Dad, John, reflected on just how special this moment will be for the family: “One of our greatest fears is that Ezra will be forgotten. But through experiences like this, he remains part of everything we do. His teddy bear comes with us everywhere so whenever we go out as a four, he’s always the fifth one there.

“Bescot stadium is somewhere we feel really connected to Ezra. It brings us immense comfort. We’re huge Walsall fans – there are 15 of us going on the day. It will be a moment none of us will ever forget – a memory to last a lifetime.”

Ezra was a wonderfully happy little boy – the apple of his family’s eye and a huge fan of cuddles.

John describes Ezra as ‘forever six’. Despite doctors saying he wouldn’t reach his first birthday; Ezra defied the odds, and his family enjoyed six ‘miracle’ years with their little boy  before his death in July 2022.

John and his wife Suzanne were overjoyed to welcome Ezra into the world in 2015. Yet, at just 10 weeks old, Ezra was ‘failing to thrive’ and was admitted to hospital. It was then that little Ezra was diagnosed with Zellweger syndrome, an extremely rare genetic condition affecting his metabolism and neurological function.

It is so rare in fact, that Ezra is thought to be amongst just a handful of children in the UK, with only 500 known cases worldwide.

“It was a world-ending moment for us,” John explained. “Our tiny baby was just four months old. From walking into hospital one Friday morning in February expecting good news, to being discharged that same afternoon with the news that he was dying – we were in absolute despair.”

The rarity of Ezra’s condition left the family with little information or support.

“We were left all on our own, with nothing but an information sheet. Suddenly, our world became a dark, broken place – full of fear and uncertainty about how long we had with Ezra. It was terrifying.”

It was just 48 hours later that Acorns stepped in, at the time when the family needed them most.

John said: “By that Sunday, Acorns had scooped us up in their safety net. It felt like a warm hug at the moment we needed it most. Someone told us, ‘You’re not on your own – we can help you.’ It meant everything.”

Initially hesitant about the idea of a hospice, the family was amazed by the breadth of support Acorns offered.

“They not only came into our lives armed with information and emotional support – they gave us the medication Ezra crucially needed to ease his pain.

“Our Family Practitioner, Sandra, was a godsend. She connected with their pain specialist who quickly identified that Ezra was experiencing neuropathic pain and provided medication that brought Ezra comfort.

“Seeing your child in pain is just about the worst thing ever. If his life was going to be short, we wanted it to be happy. When the medication started to take effect, it felt like we could breathe again.

“Sandra organised everything. She was like a real life angel. Without her I don’t know how we would’ve coped. That feeling of support from someone who knew what they were doing was like having someone guide us through the dark.”

Through Acorns, Ezra was able to experience special moments his family had longed for.

“There were so many firsts we wanted him to have, like swimming in the hydrotherapy pool or stroking the PAT dog he adored. Acorns made them possible.”

Acorns also supported Ezra’s siblings, Ethan and Eli, and continue to even after his death.

“Acorns sibling team provide an unbelievably well-rounded support system for my boys,” John explained. “While most support systems were taken away overnight after Ezra died, my boys still attend sibling groups and get to experience unforgettable moments – like being mascots for Walsall FC.”

“Acorns scooped us up in their safety net. It felt like a warm hug at the moment we needed it most.”

Saturday’s charity takeover is the second dedicated Acorns matchday of this season and aims to raise vital funds for the children’s hospice and its care for families like John’s.

The brothers’ mascot experience has been arranged in partnership with Walsall FC Foundation and Free Kicks Foundation – a nationwide charity whose aim is to provide football-related activities for ill, bereaved and disadvantaged children, giving them a day to remember with their favourite football club.

Claire Snape, Area Fundraising Manager at Acorns said: “It’s heartening that we can still create special moments for Ezra’s family – this is truly part of the magic of Acorns. But we can only keep doing this with the help of our local community.

“It costs £35,000 every day to provide our vital care and support. If every fan at Saturday’s match donates £5, they will raise enough to fund a full day of care across all three of our hospices and out in the community.”

If you’re a Saddlers fan and want to support Acorns, bring a pound to the ground and donate to one of Acorns friendly bucket collectors or find a volunteer with a card reader. If you can’t be there on the day, you can text ACORNS to 70085 to donate £5. Texts will cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message.

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

To find out more about how you can help Acorns be there for more children and families like John’s visit www.acorns.org.uk

It was an exciting day for Harborne residents and book lovers alike last Friday (28 March) as Acorns Children’s Hospice opened its brand-new superstore – complete with its very own library boasting 6,000 secondhand books.

Shoppers at the official opening discovered a library of possibilities, with the new 13,000 square-foot store offering a wide range of quality pre-loved homeware, furniture and electronic goods alongside clothes, toys and books – all at bargain prices.

The Harborne shop is the charity’s sixth superstore and its largest to date, helping to raise crucial funds for local children with life limiting and life threatening conditions and support for their families.

Gary Pettit, Retail Director at Acorns, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to open our newest superstore in Harborne, bringing a fantastic selection of pre-loved items to the local community.

“This is more than just a shop – it’s a place where people can come together, find great bargains and support a truly important cause.”

Thank You wall of photos of Acorns children and families
Shelves stocked with books surrounding a small reading seating area

One of the standout features of the new superstore is its one-of-a-kind library, home to thousands of books across all genres. Whether you’re a fan of fiction, non-fiction or children’s stories, there’s something for everyone – with hardback novels priced at just £4.50 and paperbacks at £2.50.

Gary added: “We know Harborne is a community that loves books, so we’re incredibly excited to offer this unique space where book lovers can discover hidden gems while helping us provide vital care for seriously ill children.”

The new shop also offers a designated donation drop-off zone, making it easier than ever for supporters to donate their items.

With Acorns retail operation generating more than £2 million in profit each year to fund its lifeline care for local children, the charity is calling on the community to shop, donate and volunteer at the new superstore.

The Harborne superstore will be open from 9am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday, and from 10am to 4pm on Sundays. Contact the shop by telephoning 0121 559 6157, or arrange a free furniture collection by email at furnitureharbone@acorns.org.uk

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

Give us the gift of time and volunteer at our Harborne superstore. Visit www.acorns.org.uk/volunteering for current opportunities or to register your interest.

Acorns Children’s Hospice held its first-ever Iftar event last Friday (21 March), bringing together families, colleagues, local Muslim leaders and businesses for an evening of unity and reflection.

The event was held at the charity’s Birmingham hospice in Selly Oak where it has provided vital support to over 300 children with life limiting and life threatening conditions in the past year.

Members of the community came together to share food and companionship after a day of fasting for many. The gathering embraced the spirit of Iftar, offering an inclusive space for all attendees to experience and appreciate the significance of this special tradition.

Imam Mohammad Asad MBE from Birmingham Central Mosque, was among the distinguished guests and who hosted the event alongside Acorns Chief Executive, Trevor Johnson.

The Imam said: “Ramadan teaches us valuable lessons of empathy and compassion. Through fasting, we are encouraged to understand the suffering of the less fortunate and develop a sense of gratitude for their blessings.

“This experience fosters a stronger sense of community, as we come together to break our fasts and share meals with families and communities.

“Sharing these experiences at the first-ever Iftar event at Acorns Children’s Hospice was a great milestone achieved, and was a vision led by its Chief Executive, Trevor Johnson.

“I am grateful to all of the staff and families who supported and organised the beautiful Iftar event and made it a great success. I look forward in continuing to work with such an inspiring team to achieve further goals together.”

Imam Mohammad Asad MBE from Birmingham Central Mosque and Acorns Chief Executive Trevor Johnson at the event.
The food was generously arranged by Mr Ishtiaq Latif, CEO of Latifs.

Honoured guests included Bukhtawar Mir, the Pakistan Consulate, and Mohammad Afzal, the Chair of Birmingham Central Mosque.

Acorns also welcomed members of the Birmingham business community, who showed their support and commitment to strengthening ties between the charity and local businesses. Among them was Mr Ishtiaq Latif, CEO of Latifs, who generously arranged and sponsored the food on the evening.

A special guest at the Iftar was Shabana Khan, whose daughter Haniya receives vital care at Acorns Birmingham. Haniya and her mum visit the hospice for symptom management and palliative day therapies, including physiotherapy and hydrotherapy.

She said: “Acorns is a second home to me and my family. I don’t know what we’d do without them. They’re there for us, no matter what.”

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

By supporting Acorns Children’s Hospice this Ramadan, your charitable giving can provide vital comfort, hope and love to seriously ill children and their families. Donate today by visiting www.acorns.org.uk/ramadan

An extremely rare gold disc awarded to UB40 for its hit album ‘Geffery Morgan’ is among an incredible memorabilia package featuring in an online auction for Acorns Children’s Hospice – but time is running out to bid.

The one-of-a-kind collection is part of Acorns Lights, Camera, Auction!, the charity’s biggest auction to date. Running until March 26, there’s just one week left to bid and support the charity’s lifeline care for seriously ill children and their families.

The 40-year-old original framed disc is among a number of rare UB40 items, including original artwork from the band’s iconic debut album which features a signature from founding member and saxophonist Brian Travers, who tragically lost his heroic battle with brain cancer in 2022.

Framed print signed by UB40 band members

Emma Wright, Partnerships Manager at Acorns, said: “Thanks to the generosity of magnificent Birmingham legends and Acorns supporters like UB40, Steven Knight and Ozzy Osbourne, we’re bringing fans a truly spectacular range of one-of-a-kind items and experiences in our online auction.

“But hurry – bidders only have one week left to seize the chance to claim these unique items before they’re gone forever.”

Fans can also get their hands on a limited-edition signed red vinyl of ‘UB45’ – the band’s most recent hit album, as well as two Golden VIP tickets for any upcoming UB40 concert, offering fans an unforgettable live experience with the legendary Birmingham-founded band.

Among the roster of dazzling donations is also a pair of much sought-after tickets for this summer’s final performance by Ozzy and Black Sabbath. This auction presents one of the last opportunities for rock fans to get their hands on the ‘gold-dust’ tickets.

With an extraordinary lineup of exclusive memorabilia from across the production world, as well as a number of luxury experiences and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, the charity auction has something for every fan.

Other lots include a Michelin-starred meal, a bespoke hair, make-up and wardrobe makeover, a relaxing overnight spa retreat, and VIP tickets to see The Nutcracker, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, or the world premiere of Sherlock Holmes and the 12 Days of Christmas.

For Pink Floyd fans there is also a special opportunity to secure a vinyl copy of Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon and a pair of drumsticks signed by famed drummer Nick Mason.

Emma added: “Every bid on this exciting auction will help to provide vital care for local children with life limiting and life threatening conditions. This is your chance to secure your dream prize while supporting families at a time when they need us the most. Don’t miss out!”

To be in with a chance of winning, visit www.acorns.org.uk/bid to place your bid before the auction closes on March 26.

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.