Six children’s hospices, one extraordinary adventure

7th April 2025

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