News

Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) is celebrating the continued support of the South West’s cyber security community, as BSides Exeter reaches an incredible milestone of almost £10,000 raised for the charity over the past 3 years.

BSides Exeter is part of the global security BSides movement; a community-driven series of cyber security conferences focused on collaboration, accessibility and knowledge sharing. Unlike larger commercial events, BSides creates space for a wide range of voices, from experienced practitioners to students and those new to the industry.

Event organiser Pete Jones explains:
“BSides events are designed to give a platform to people who might not otherwise have the opportunity to speak, and to bring the community together in a more open and inclusive way.”

The movement itself began in 2009, when cyber security professionals who couldn’t secure speaking slots at major conferences decided to host their own event. That spirit continues today, with independently organised BSides events taking place around the world, including Exeter. At a local level, BSides Exeter brings together cyber professionals, businesses and enthusiasts from across the South West to share practical insights, explore emerging threats, and build connections. Just as importantly, the event has a strong community focus, raising money for causes close to its members’ hearts.

Each BSides chooses a charity that means something to the community,” says Pete. “In Exeter, we were inspired by Todd Gifford from Optimising IT, who supported Children’s Hospice South West through a ‘jail break’ fundraiser. With several of our committee members being parents, the cause really resonated with us

Since 2024, that support has continued to grow year on year. The event raised around £1,200 in its first year of supporting CHSW, followed by £2,100 in 2025. In 2026, the community went even further, raising more than £3,800 through the conference and associated activities.

A key part of this success has been the creativity and generosity within the BSides community from the sale of stickers and 3D-printed souvenirs to dedicated fundraising initiatives. “That community spirit really brings out the best in people,” Pete adds. “Whether it’s buying merchandise or taking part in fundraising activities, everyone wants to contribute.”

In 2026, BSides Exeter also introduced a charity-focused training day alongside the main conference, with all proceeds donated to CHSW. 

Neville Pope, Digital Fundraising Officer at CHSW, said:
“A huge thank you to everyone involved in BSides Exeter from all of us at CHSW. Your support over the past 3 years has made a real difference to the families we care for. We’re incredibly grateful and look forward to continuing to work together on some exciting projects in the future.” 

Pete added to this: “We’re excited to continue working with BSides Exeter and Simply Great Education beyond the event itself. There are lots of ways we can support the hospice and the children throughout the year.”

CHSW would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in BSides Exeter, the organisers, volunteers, speakers and attendees for their ongoing support and commitment to making a difference to families when they need it most.