6 Charities Close To The SL Team’s Hearts

“Mine would be The Epilepsy Society – it’s a sensitive topic but it’s a cause very close to my family’s hearts. My husband actually ran the London Marathon in their honour this year. Over 600,000 people in the UK have epilepsy but the vision of the charity is a world where epilepsy is irrelevant and people with the condition can lead the lives they want to lead. Launched in 1892, its work focuses on world-leading research into the causes, diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy, as well as advocacy and improvements in care – all of which needs funding.”

Visit EPILEPSYSOCIETY.ORG.UK 

“There are some small charities that do incredible work supporting women and girls. First, there’s The Girls’ Network, set up by two ex-secondary school teachers – Charly and Becca – in north London, who were inspired to break down the barriers facing girls in classrooms, like the pressure to conform to certain ideals, limited confidence and a lack of female role models. They established one-to-one mentoring schemes and now work with around 1,000 girls across the country each year. Then there’s Street Talk, a charity set up by an NHS therapist who felt there wasn’t adequate care available for vulnerable women with complex needs, especially those who might not be able to access or afford existing services.”

Visit THEGIRLSNETWORK.ORG.UK & STREET-TALK.ORG.UK 

“Sistah Space works with women and girls of African and Caribbean descent who have been affected by domestic violence and sexual abuse. It was founded in 2015 after Valerie Forde and her one-year-old daughter Jahzara were murdered by her ex-partner. Now, as well as offering UK-wide support, it campaigns on issues affecting local communities in London. It’s this community feel that I connected to when I discovered the charity during my time in Dalston, when I was looking for somewhere to donate new clothes. I have since done some fundraising for them, and it’s a cause I truly believe in.”

Visit SISTAHSPACE.ORG 

“Beit El Baraka has been especially close to my heart recently as Lebanon faces a severe humanitarian crisis. Thousands of displaced people are now living on Beirut’s streets, with shelters and schools overcrowded and lacking in basic necessities like water and sanitation. In these dire times, Beit Al Baraka’s work has become crucial. The charity is providing immediate relief through essentials like food and healthcare, while also focusing on long-term solutions such as rebuilding homes and creating sustainable employment. Being half Lebanese, I feel deeply connected to its mission, and I’m continually inspired by the impact it’s having, offering both hope and tangible support to those in desperate need.”

Visit BEITELBARAKA.ORG 

“This week is National Hygiene Week, so my choice is The Hygiene Bank. It’s a great cause and an easy way to help people who are less fortunate. You can donate new and unused hygiene and household cleaning products to help those living in poverty stay clean and access the basics they need. It feels like it should be a right, not a privilege, but for so many people just affording simple, everyday products isn’t always possible. Donating is easy as there are drop-off points in places like Boots, from where volunteers distribute the items to many local organisations that support children, families and individuals in need.”

Visit THEHYGIENEBANK.COM

"Most of us can't fathom ever having to give up our beloved pets. But for those left behind when someone passes away or for people who are no longer able to look after their cat, there is the Mann Cat Sanctuary. Based in the Isle of Man, the volunteers work tirelessly to look after old, disabled, traumatised and otherwise uncared for cats. Allowing them the freedom to roam, it provides a safe haven, ensuring each animal is fed, groomed and receives veterinary care." 

Visit MANNCAT.COM