Walk for Wards 2024 fundraisers look set to raise over £10,000

Over 150 dedicated fundraisers gathered along Southend seafront on Sunday 22 September for our annual Walk for Wards event. The popular 7km stroll allows participants to raise money for a ward or department of their choice within the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust – and this year’s event did not disappoint!

Friends, families, colleagues, and supporters of all ages came together with the goal of raising over £10,000 for 25 areas across the Trust. Among them, the MSE recruitment team walked for Southend’s Estuary Ward in memory of their colleague Kim Smith, who passed away earlier this year. Lee Brown, Director of Workforce Services, said, “We walked in celebration of Kim, a dear friend who is missed enormously. The Estuary Ward provided exceptional care to Kim and her family, making it the perfect cause to support.”

Despite the weather, the event was a resounding success, with a record turnout. Each walker received a medal in appreciation of their dedication and fundraising efforts, helping make a real difference for their local hospitals.

Lucy Thomas-Clayton, Director of Charity and Voluntary Services, said: “It’s been fantastic to see so many of our supporters back for another year of Walk for Wards. Being such a fun and family-friendly day, it’s by far one of our most popular events.

“Once again, our local community’s support has overwhelmed us and it’s always wonderful to see our regular participants as well as the first timers that have made the effort and commitment to raise funds for their local hospital. Our thanks go out to every one of them, the response never fails to amaze us.

“I’d also like to thank our event supporters Adventure Island, their ongoing support of our charity and hospitals is something we are extremely grateful of.”