Acorns volunteers make a real difference to the care and support we can provide to local families, and we’re shining a light on someone who truly reflects the heart of Acorns volunteer community – Sam Claughton.

Sam has been volunteering with us at Acorns in Birmingham for over six years, but his connection to the hospice began even earlier. While attending Selly Oak Trust School, Specialist Science College for students with special educational needs, based right next door, Sam first got to know Acorns through his mum, Alex. She was volunteering with her Pets as Therapy (PAT) dog, Scamper, and Sam would often come along to visit. It didn’t take long before he was fully involved himself.

Since then, Sam has become a vital part of our volunteer team, joining the Acorns Choir, lending a hand in the gardens, and even taking on the responsibility of feeding and caring for the hospice fish tank.

Growth through volunteering

But more than anything, Sam’s time at Acorns has been a journey of growth. Volunteering has helped him build confidence, push his own boundaries and discover new strengths. From learning how to strim and mow lawns to taking on more responsibility, Sam has gained practical skills and personal pride.

“Volunteering gives me a purpose,” Sam says. “It’s the best thing I’ve ever done.” 

A group of people posing for a picture outside during winter

He’s not just talking about the tasks, it’s the people and the sense of community that mean so much to him. Sam describes Acorns as ‘a family away from family’ – a place where he feels accepted, supported and safe. It’s where friendships have been formed, jokes are shared, and everyone looks out for each other.

Sam is also known for bringing the average age of our volunteers down, proudly being one of the youngest in the team, though he calls himself a ‘young person with an old soul’. One of his most memorable moments was when fellow gardeners and choir members surprised him with a secret birthday party – a reflection of just how loved and valued he is.

Volunteering has given as much to Sam as he gives to us. His warmth, dedication and humour brighten our days, and his story is a reminder of how powerful community, purpose and kindness can be.

Thank you, Sam, for being such an important part of the Acorns family. You inspire us all.

Get involved in volunteering

We’re always looking for kind-hearted people to join our wonderful community of volunteers. Whether it’s cheering on our amazing supporters at events, lending a hand in one of our vibrant charity shops, or offering a warm welcome in our hospices, there are so many ways to get involved across the Midlands.

You don’t need any special experience, just kindness, enthusiasm, and a little time to spare. Every moment you give helps us provide vital care and support to local children and families.

Explore our latest volunteering opportunities today! Your time could mean the world to a family at Acorns.

Register your interest

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.

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.

Peaky Blinders fans have the exciting opportunity to own a signed script from the first-ever episode of the award-winning television series in an online charity auction from Acorns Children’s Hospice.

The script, signed by the show’s creator Steven Knight, was generously donated by the renowned screenwriter alongside a rare collection of exquisitely tailored Peaky Blinders suits and caps, designed and created by Garrison Tailors and worn by Birmingham City players in their official 2019/20 home shirt promotional video. These are available either individually or as a set for collectors. Once the new Peaky Blinder film comes out, these suits will soar in value.

The glittering auction, which runs until March 26, is raising vital funds for the hospice charity and its lifeline care for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions and support for their families.

Emma Wright, Partnerships Manager at Acorns, said: “Thanks to the generosity of incredible supporters like Steven Knight and Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne, we’re bringing fans a truly spectacular range of once-in-a-lifetime items and experiences.

“From signed memorabilia by Tom Hardy, to a signed, limited-edition framed print of England’s 1966 World Cup winning team, and even the breathtaking opportunity to see the Northern Lights in Finland, our auction has something for everyone!”

Acorns ‘Lights, Camera, Auction!’ stage and screen auction is the biggest yet for the charity, featuring an extraordinary lineup of items from some of the world’s most beloved productions. With exclusive memorabilia, VIP experiences and luxury getaways up for grabs, this month-long event is a must for fans and collectors alike.

Bidding is already underway, with less than a week left to seize the chance to claim these unique items before they’re gone forever.

Plus a unique opportunity awaits – an exclusive bespoke makeover package featuring top industry professionals. Enjoy expert styling by John Scott, former This Morning stylist and dresser to stars like Julia Roberts and Angelina Jolie. Complete your transformation with a stunning new look by renowned makeup artist Carole Maye, known for her work on Steven Knight’s ‘This Town’, followed by a flawless cut, colour and blow dry by Jamie at JC Hair.

Amongst 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.

Other lots include a Michelin-starred meal, a bespoke cookery class, 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.

“Acorns auction truly has something for every fan”

Emma added: “Every bid on this magnificent auction will help to provide lifeline care for children who are seriously ill and support for their families. Don’t miss out and secure your dream prize while supporting families at a time when they need us the most. Together, we can make a real difference.”

To bid on the items and be in with a chance winning visit www.acorns.org.uk/bid

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.

What is Ramadan?

March 1st 2025 would be the first day of fasting although, as Islamic days start at sunset, the month of Ramadan would actually begin on the evening of Friday, February 28, provided the moon is sighted.

Muslims around the world will start fasting during daylight hours, meaning they will abstain from eating, drinking or engaging in sexual relations for the duration of their fast. Young children, pregnant women, the old, the sick and travellers are examples of those who are exempt from fasting.

Aside from fasting, Muslims observing Ramadan also increase in spiritual devotional acts such as prayers, giving charity and strengthening family ties. Muslims are also encouraged to share their food with friends, family, neighbours, colleagues and to reach out to those who may be fasting alone, to share their Ramadan experiences.

Why fasting?

“O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed for you as it has been prescribed for those before you, so that you may attain Taqwa (God-conscious)” [Quran 2:183]

Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam. A key objective of fasting increase in taqwa (closeness to / consciousness of God), and to engender a sense of gratitude, self-discipline and self-improvement, at both an individual and community level, which Muslims are encouraged to continue throughout the year.

At an individual level, fasting encourages us to feel an affinity with the poor across the world who have little or no food to eat. At a community level, the breaking of fast meal (Iftar) at sunset encourages families and local communities to share their meal together, whilst charity work in local communities typically increases during Ramadan.

The end of Ramadan is marked by the festival of Eid-ul-Fitr, known as the ‘Festival of Breaking the Fast’. Like the beginning of Ramadan, the end of the month is determined by moon sighting.

Wishing everyone a happy month of Ramadan.

Imam Mohammad Asad MBE

Muslim Chaplain

a man with a beard wearing a white faith-based camp and white clothing
Mohammad Asad MBE

You would think that trekking the world’s hottest desert for Acorns Children’s Hospice was enough of a feat for Steven Duffield. But this is just the tip of the iceberg for the Worcestershire resident, who not only lost 17 stone in less than a year, but is also hiking a staggering 1,880 miles to raise even more money for the charity.

The inspiration behind his epic journey is his beloved niece, Meggie, who relies on the critical support of Acorns for the Three Counties for rehabilitative respite care and family services.

Steven, who moved to Kidderminster nearly three years ago, made the decision to change his life two years ago. Once nearly 30 stone, what started as a commitment to improving his health, became a remarkable 17 stone weight loss.

He explained: “When I started walking, it was just six miles in the first month – and that was more than enough for me at the time. But I stuck at it, walking more and more and I’m now up to 25 miles a day. As the weight fell off, my mental health improved drastically too. I slowly began to feel like myself again.

“My dad, who we lost to dementia five years ago, was always fond of walking – so walking makes me feel close to him too in many ways, and to appreciate life.”

Now, Steven is channelling his passion for walking and the outdoors to give back. Following a trip to Tunisia, where he first experienced the beauty of the Sahara Desert, Steven eagerly embraced the idea of trekking the Sahara. It was a slip of the tongue from his friend that sparked an even bigger idea.

Steven said: “A friend of mine thought I was actually walking all the way from Kidderminster to the Sahara! We had a good laugh when I explained the mix-up, but the idea stuck with me – I couldn’t shake how incredible that challenge would be.

“Now, here I am. Whilst I’m not physically walking to the Sahara, I’m covering the exact same distance, and hoping to raise even more money for Acorns because of it.”

In a full circle moment for Steven, he’s covering this distance of 1,880 miles along the same local canals, nature reserves and trails where he first embarked on his remarkable weight loss journey, transforming both his physical health and mental wellbeing.

For Steven, this whole endeavour is deeply personal. His 11-year-old niece, Meggie, has a highly complex, rare and life limiting chromosome disorder known as Trisomy 9 mosaic syndrome. This means she requires permanent care, is non-verbal, unable to take solid food, has a compromised immune system and was born with several of her major organs twisted, fused and in the wrong place.

Steven explained: “Acorns has been a lifeline for my sister and her family. It’s about more than just Meggie – they care for the whole family, including her twin brother, through sibling groups and family fun days.”

“When Meggie stays overnight at the hospice, she not only gets to enjoy herself, but her mum and dad can also get some much-needed rest, knowing she’s in expert hands.”

Since the beginning of February, Steven has been walking up six hours every day carrying a 30lb backpack, aiming to cover all 1,880 miles before the Sahara trek in October – that’s over 72 marathons and more than 4.2 million steps. “It’s going to take a few pairs of trainers!”, he added.

Steven is also spreading awareness with his very own business cards explaining his challenge and the work Acorns does, complete with a QR code linking to his JustGiving page. He’s even reaching out to local businesses and planning a summer music festival to raise additional funds for the charity. His target is £4,000, though he hopes to surpass it.

“I’m doing everything I can because I understand firsthand what families like mine go through,” Steven said. “Living with Meggie, I see every day how poorly she is and the reality of having a child with a life limiting condition. I’ve watched her go in and out of hospital, never knowing one day to the next if she would make it.”

He added: “Whenever I’m out walking and my feet start to ache or the rain’s pouring down, I just think about Meggie and other children at Acorns. It’s a powerful reminder that any discomfort I feel is nothing compared to what they go through.”

As October approaches, Steven is determined to raise as much awareness and funds as possible for Acorns while honouring Meggie and other children like her. His journey is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of giving back.

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 support Steven and make a donation, visit his JustGiving page. To find out more about how Acorns provides lifeline care and support for children and families like Meggie’s, visit www.acorns.org.uk