From an incredible £187,650 raised at the Oxford Half Marathon to generous contributions from local businesses and community groups, Sobell House Hospice Charity is celebrating the difference its supporters are making across Oxfordshire, while inviting more organisations to get involved this Christmas.
As Sobell House continues its 50th anniversary celebrations, the charity has shared a series of inspiring fundraising achievements, community initiatives and opportunities for local businesses to make a meaningful difference.
The latest updates demonstrate the extraordinary generosity of Oxfordshire’s business and wider community, whose contributions help Sobell House provide compassionate care to patients and families facing some of life’s most difficult moments.
Oxford Half Marathon Raises an Incredible £187,650
One of the standout achievements has been the remarkable success of Team Sobell at this year’s Oxford Half Marathon.
Supporters raised an outstanding £187,650, an amount that could fund more than 7,624 hours of compassionate nursing care for patients.
The charity is already encouraging runners to sign up for next year’s event, with places filling quickly.
ODS Demonstrates the Power of Business Support
Local organisation ODS has provided an excellent example of how businesses can support charities through both fundraising and practical expertise.
ODS fundraising groups raised £1,341.50, which was match-funded to reach £2,683. The organisation also acted as headline sponsor of Sobell House’s Golf Day, helping the event raise £17,640.
But the support hasn’t stopped there.
The ODS team has installed a new bench outside the hospice, transformed an old changing room into valuable storage space and is preparing to install a new shower room.
It’s a powerful reminder that businesses can make a difference not only through financial contributions but also by sharing their skills, resources and time.
50 for 50 Campaign Continues to Inspire
Sobell House’s 50th anniversary fundraising initiative, 50 for 50, has already generated £20,967 through a wonderfully varied programme of activities.
From dinners and bake sales to sponsored walks and quizzes, supporters have embraced the challenge with enthusiasm.
Bridge House Care Home in Abingdon has taken a particularly ambitious approach, organising 50 separate fundraising events rather than just one. The team has already completed 35, including its Great Bridge House Bake Off.
With the anniversary celebrations continuing until May 2027, there’s still plenty of time for businesses, colleagues and community groups to organise their own fundraising activities.
Long-Standing Community Partnerships Make a Difference
Oxford City and County Bowls Club has raised a further £3,739 through its annual fundraising activities.
The club’s long-standing relationship with Sobell House has now generated more than £63,000, demonstrating the lasting impact that committed community partnerships can achieve.
Festive Opportunities to Support Sobell House
There are several opportunities for individuals and organisations to get involved over the coming weeks.
The South Oxfordshire Christmas Fair, taking place on Tuesday 17 November at The Oxfordshire Golf Hotel & Spa in Thame, has selected Sobell House as one of its Charities of the Year for 2026.
With 60 stalls, the event promises an enjoyable day of festive shopping, with 10% of vendor sales and all ticket sales being donated to the charity.
On Friday 20 November, Treadwell at The Store in Oxford will host a special Great Gatsby-themed evening featuring Rosemary Shrager, live jazz and a specially created menu. £10 from every ticket will support Sobell House.
The charity is also looking for volunteers to help with Christmas gift wrapping on 19 and 20 December.
RAISE Christmas Carol Concert – Thursday 10 December
Sobell House is also one of the 15 beneficiary charities taking part in this year’s RAISE Christmas Carol Concert, organised by B4 at Keble College Chapel, Oxford, on Thursday 10 December, from 6.30pm to 8pm.
The evening will bring together Oxfordshire’s business and charity communities for a special celebration featuring traditional carols, performances by Oxford’s acclaimed a cappella group Out of the Blue, and a collective reading representing all 15 participating charities.
Tickets are £50 plus Eventbrite booking fees.
Book tickets for the RAISE Christmas Carol Concert
Big Give Christmas Challenge – Double the Impact
From 1 to 8 December, Sobell House will participate in the Big Give Christmas Challenge, aiming to raise £50,000 to support its Sobell House Hub team.
The Hub provides specialist advice, practical assistance and reassurance to people receiving care at home and the families supporting them.
During the campaign, eligible donations will be doubled through match funding, giving supporters an opportunity to make twice the impact.
A Community Making a Real Difference
These achievements highlight the important role that businesses, individuals and community organisations play in supporting the vital work of Sobell House.
Whether through sponsorship, fundraising, volunteering or providing practical expertise, every contribution helps the charity continue delivering compassionate care across Oxfordshire.
For B4 members looking to strengthen their community involvement, Sobell House offers a wide range of opportunities to make a tangible difference.
To discuss corporate fundraising, volunteering or partnership opportunities, contact Nikki Gracey at nikki.gracey@sobellhospice.org.
Find out more about Sobell House Hospice Charity at https://sobellhouse.org/.