News

Local businesses gathered at Bath Racecourse this week for a corporate networking event with a difference — blending professional connections, inspirational stories, and meaningful community impact.

Hosted in collaboration with Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) and Bath Racecourse, the event welcomed members of the local business community for an afternoon of racing, relationship-building, and recognition of outstanding young ambassadors.

Ben Hicks, shared a compelling account of his journey as a jockey, including his experience riding at the iconic Aintree Racecourse. His insights into the dedication, resilience, and passion required throughout his career resonated strongly with the audience, inspiring many in the room to reflect on their own professional journeys.

A highlight of the day was the celebration of the CHSW Young Ambassadors. Students from Hayesfield, Kingswood, Royal High School, and King Edward’s School were honoured with awards recognising their dedication to raising awareness of CHSW and for the personal development they have achieved through the Young Ambassador Programme. The programme supports young people in growing key skills including leadership, communication, and community engagement — all while supporting the invaluable work of CHSW.

CHSW supports children with life-limiting conditions and their families across the region. Its three children’s hospices, including Charlton Farm in Wraxall, offer respite stays, specialist play, sibling support, and compassionate end-of-life care. With less than 11% of its £14 million annual running costs funded by the government, CHSW relies heavily on public donations.

Heidi Robers, Area Fundraiser for CHSW added: "It was wonderful to see such a great turn out to this networking event, and the community spirit was so very special. I am so proud of all the CHSW Young Ambassadors in Bath for their creative ideas, their volunteer hours and for raising awareness of the cause in the Bath area. A big well done to Hayesfield Young Ambassadors for winning the ‘Young Champion Award” category of the first Radio Bath Charity awards & to Radio Bath to attending the races event to hand the award to all of the cohort”.

Special thanks were extended to Truespeed, Goughs Solicitors, who purchased tickets for the Young Ambassadors to attend. The support of Bath Racecourse was also vital to the event’s success — not only as a host venue but through their kind donation of race tickets to CHSW.

The event was a reminder of the powerful outcomes that arise when businesses come together not just for networking, but to uplift and empower the next generation.

If you would like to get involved in the CHSW Young Ambassador Programme as a school or a business, please contact Heidi.Roberts@CHSW.org.uk.