St Edward’s Oxford

St Edward’s now chooses two School Charities annually and these are supported by pupils and staff with a variety of fundraising events throughout the year. The School Charities are chosen by pupils, parents and staff via anonymous vote. Each House delivers one major fundraising event in support of the School Charities each year, though they also support other charities throughout the year with ‘one-off’ appeals. In addition to House fundraising events, the School runs several larger appeals throughout the year such as the Steeplechase fundraiser and collections after concerts and performances. Pupils are involved through every stage of the School’s fundraising events and appeals.

The local charity which we will be supporting this year is Sobell House.  Sobell House is a charity which provides end-of-life care, helping people to live well in the time that they have and to die with dignity. Their care is compassionate, specialist and person-centred – and they also support family members and friends.  Every year, they support more than 4,500 people in and around Oxford, through more than 40,000 interactions with patients and their families.  When Sobell House opened in 1976, a week of end-of-life care cost £47.  It now costs around £670.   If we reach our target to raise £50,000 for each charity this year, we will able to help more than 70 people at the end of their lives.  

The second school charity that we will be supporting is Williams Syndrome Foundation. WSF supports individuals and families living with Williams Syndrome, a rare congenital disorder which occurs randomly, and which affects around one in 18,000 people in the UK. It causes a range of issues from heart and bowel problems to low muscle tone, mental health issues, learning disabilities, and sensory and behavioural issues. Many adults with Williams Syndrome will be unable to live independently without significant support – support which the charity provides. 

Thank you for your support!