Community Spirit in Action: How Fundraisers Are Helping Plymouth Highbury Trust Make a Difference

Plymouth Highbury Trust has long been at the heart of supporting adults with learning disabilities across the city. From advocacy and supported living to social clubs and specialist programmes like WISER, their work gives people the chance to live, grow and thrive within the community.

But behind every service, every activity and every success story, there is something else essential: the generosity and support of fundraisers and community partners.

And we want to celebrate some of the inspiring fundraising efforts that are helping PHT continue its vital mission - including community challenges, brand new events, and the incredible support recently shown by the Plymouth Law Society.

Taking on Challenges for a Cause

Over the years, PHT has been supported by people who have gone above and beyond to raise awareness and funds.

One standout example was a remarkable challenge by Tom Purcell, who took on 99 holes of golf across six different courses, walking 50 miles in a single day to raise money for PHT’s sensory room and sensory garden appeal.
His determination not only raised funds but also shone a spotlight on the charity’s work and the importance of inclusive facilities for people with learning disabilities.

Another heartwarming highlight comes from Cindy and Pam - mother and daughter, whose incredible efforts have made a lifesaving impact on both PHT and the surrounding community.

Thanks to their hard work and determination, they raised an amazing £750, enabling Plymouth Highbury Trust to purchase a brand-new defibrillator. Their fundraising included:

• Organising raffles
• Collecting items to sell
• And Pam taking on the amazing challenge of walking Ben Nevis - a climb that took her a total of 11 hours!

Their dedication has not only equipped our charity with essential lifesaving equipment, but it has also benefited the wider community. The new defibrillator is now registered as the nearest accessible defibrillator in the area, meaning it could help save lives far beyond the walls of PHT.

We would also like to extend a special thank you to Boogie Woogie Mobile, who raised £110, which went towards the installation of the defibrillator.

Building Community Through Events and Social Clubs

It’s not just about the challenges at Highbury - but also our amazing community events that are only growing bigger than ever.

From our quarterly Coffee Mornings organised by our Community Support Service to brand-new one-off events such as “Highbury: Get Me Out of Here!”.

This perticular event brought together staff, volunteers, supporters and participants for a day filled with:

• Hilarious challenges
• Friendly competition
• Bushtucker trial style tasks
• A great atmosphere full of laughter and community

Not only did the event bring joy to everyone involved, but it also raised vital funds to support the ongoing work of the charity.
It perfectly captured what makes PHT so special: fun, inclusivity and a shared commitment to supporting one another.

A Fundraising Highlight: Plymouth Law Society Dinner Raises £5,691

One of the most impactful fundraising moments in recent times came thanks to the incredible generosity of the Plymouth Law Society, which chose Plymouth Highbury Trust as their Charity of the Year, and inviting us to attend their Annual Dinner.

Held at Plymouth Argyle Football Club and attended by more than 300 solicitors, barristers and guests, the event combined celebration with fundraising - resulting in a fantastic £5,691 raised for PHT. We can’t express our gratitude enough toward The President of the Plymouth Law Society, who had a huge part to play in choosing our charity and the incredible generosity shown by attendees. The event has become a shining example of how professional networks can champion local causes.

For PHT, this support means more resources, community outreach and enrichment activities - all of which make a real difference to the people the charity supports every day.

Why This Support Matters

Fundraising doesn’t just provide financial help - it builds relationships, spreads awareness, and creates opportunities that would not otherwise exist.

Through:
✔ Community challenge events
✔ Individual fundraising feats
✔ Volunteering
✔ Professional community partnerships like the Plymouth Law Society

PHT can continue empowering adults with learning disabilities to lead fulfilling, supported and connected lives.

Every donation, every challenge completed, every event held - it all adds up. And it all changes lives.

How You Can Get Involved

If you have been inspired by these stories, there are so many ways you can support Plymouth Highbury Trust:

• Take on your own challenge or sponsored event
• Attend a local fundraiser or organise one with friends or colleagues
• As a business, become a community partner
• Volunteer your time at social clubs or advocacy projects
• Share PHT’s mission on social media to help spread the word
• Or simply make a donation - every contribution matters

Together, we can help ensure that PHT continues offering life-changing support to those who need it most.