Harry’s Pals Archives - PiGs

Harry’s Pals launches “Step Into May” walking challenge

George Lewis — Wed, 06 May 2026 13:48:17 +0000

PiGs’ Charity of the Year, Harry’s Pals, is encouraging people to get active in May with the launch of its “Step Into May” challenge, held in support of National Walking Month.

Participants are invited to walk at least 8,000 steps a day throughout the month, tracking their progress as they go. Designed to be simple and inclusive, the challenge aims to boost physical wellbeing, encourage team spirit, and raise vital funds for families caring for children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions.

Entry costs £15, with participants receiving weekly updates to help maintain motivation, alongside an element of friendly competition.

To add further incentive, everyone who signs up will be entered into a prize draw to win Afternoon Tea for Two at The Ritz London. Meanwhile, the top “stepper” at the end of May will take home a trophy and a £60 voucher from Amazon.

Harry’s Pals provides emotional support, counselling, and respite opportunities for parents navigating the challenges of caring for seriously ill children.

With demand for its services continuing to rise, initiatives like “Step Into May” are said to play a crucial role in ensuring support remains available when families need it most.

Those interested in taking part can register by emailing emma@harryspals.org to be included in the challenge, prize draw, and progress updates. Donations can then be completed via the charity’s JustGiving page: Step into May – JustGiving

Or for more information about Harry’s Pals, visit: Harry’s Pals | Providing support to parents following a harrowing diagnosis.

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Hayley Charlesworth’s Harry’s Pals update

George Lewis — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 17:10:26 +0000

PiGs STY Master, Sarah Ball, caught up with Harry’s Pals Founder Hayley Charlesworth as they climbed Snowdon.

Here’s what Hayley told us: “We wanted to share a little update from all of us at Harry’s Pals and to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone across the industry for your continued support.

“We’re so excited that preparations for the Inca Trail challenge are now well underway, and it’s already shaping up to be something really special. Last week, I joined the group for a training session to climb Snowdon, where I had the chance to meet some of the wonderful people who have signed up so far. It was such a warm and welcoming group, the kind of people who will make this bucket list experience not just meaningful, but genuinely fun and unforgettable too.

“This incredible challenge, organised by the People in Glazing Society, will take place from 2–11 October 2026, finishing at the breathtaking Machu Picchu. With 14 people already on board, it’s amazing to see the team coming together and we would absolutely love for more of you to join us.

“We’re so grateful to PiGs for their continued support. It truly means the world to us and to the families we support.

“That support was felt again recently at the GGP Installer Awards, where Harry’s Pals was honoured to be selected as the charity for 2026. Thanks to the kindness and generosity of everyone involved, an incredible £1,742 was raised on the day and we also had the opportunity to meet lots of great people, all keen to show their support for Harry’s Pals.

“Because of kindness like this, we’re now able to reach more families than ever before – offering vital emotional support, counselling, and opportunities for families to spend precious time together during incredibly difficult times.

“The Inca Trail challenge is more than just a trek. It’s a chance for our industry to come together, support one another, and make a real difference to families who need it most.

“If you’re thinking about joining us, we would love to hear from you.”

Find out more or sign up here: https://zurl.co/T2oCp

And if you’d like to support Harry’s Pals in other ways, including donations or partnerships, please visit: www.justgiving.com/harryspals

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PiGs Charity Challenge: Snowdon in the sun!

George Lewis — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 17:07:52 +0000

Training for the PiGs AKA People in Glazing Society Inca Trail Charity Challenge to kicked off with a hugely successful climb up Snowdon.

The challenge aims to raise £70,000 for Harry’s Pals, a charity founded by Hayley Charlesworth. Hayley’s husband Andrew is Global Director at Profine Group.

Sarah Ball, organiser of the PiGs Charity Challenge, said: “The first training session on Snowdon was a huge success. Saturday 21 March saw 10 of the Machu PiGchu team members, plus supportive family and friends, climb Snowdon. The group was also joined by Hayley Charlesworth, founder of Harry’s Pals, as well as a wonderful four-legged addition to the day – Andy and Hayley’s dog, Eddie.”

Joining Sarah were fellow team members Andrew Charlesworth from Profine Group; Emi Arnaut and Sion Buckley from DoorCo; Gareth Jones from Solar Fabrication and his partner Sandrine; Gemma Diratzonian from Yale DWS; Julie Hilmes from Mila; Sam Nuckey from Window Ware; and Sarah Hitchins from The Residence Collection and Window Widgets.

Sarah added: “It was the first time the group had all been together, and it was as if the weather knew, as it delivered perfect climbing conditions.

“We met by the Snowdon Light Railway station at the base of the mountain. After a short briefing and introductions from all the climbers, Hayley shared more about the charity and how the funds raised will make a difference.

“Then we set off in the sunshine. Several hours, many conversations, much laughter and 3,200 feet higher, we reached the summit together. We then split into smaller groups for the descent, with the more experienced team members going first. It was an amazing achievement for the team all round.

“If Saturday’s performance was anything to go by, this is going to be one incredible team.”

Before heading to Peru on 2 October to take on the Inca Trail, the team has three more UK training sessions: Scafell, Ben Nevis and the Edale Skyline. These are open events for anyone in the industry to join.

To donate to the team or an individual, visit the JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/pigsincatrail

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PiGs Charity Challenge 2026: Your Top 10 Questions Answered

George Lewis — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 16:59:18 +0000

PiGs AKA People in Glazing Society Charity Challenge 2026 is officially underway. With a successful Snowdon climb already under the team’s belt, excitement is building for what promises to be an unforgettable journey.

Here’s everything you need to know!

Where are you going?

We’re heading to Machu Picchu via the legendary Inca Trail in Peru. This iconic 5-day trek takes us through breathtaking mountain scenery to one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations.

What dates?

The challenge runs from 2–11 October 2026, with the trek itself taking place over 5 days during that period.

How much does it cost?

Costs for the trip are £3,099, which includes:
• International flights
• Accommodation
• Guided trek and support team
• Meals during the trek

A deposit of £500 is needed to secure a place.

What charity is it for?

We’re proud to be supporting Harry’s Pals, a charity dedicated to supporting parent carers through community, respite and vital resources. Learn more here: https://harryspals.co.uk/

Why Harry’s Pals?

We choose charities from within the industry. Harry’s Pals was set up by Hayley Charlesworth, who is married to Andrew, Global Director at Profine Group. Their son Harry was just three days old when a consultant gave them the devastating news that their baby boy had suffered significant brain damage caused by two strokes, and as a result would have very complex needs.

Finding no support for parents in this position, Hayley vowed to change this for others, and her tireless work is making a difference – but more funding is needed to support more families facing similar challenges.

How much money do I have to raise?

Each participant is asked to raise a minimum of £3,500 – and we’ll be on hand with full support and ideas to help you smash it.

Who is organising the trip?

The challenge is organised by Discover Adventure (DA), a specialist in charity challenges for more than 30 years. Discover Adventure is well known to Sarah, who travelled with them to Peru in 2014, and they also organised the PiGs Kilimanjaro trip in 2024.

Here’s what it says on the DA website: Members of the DA team are chosen for their organisational skills, travel experience and sense of humour. There’s a huge amount that goes on behind the scenes at Discover Adventure to ensure your trip runs smoothly from start to finish, including ground operations, flights, crew training, admin and marketing.

On your challenge, you’ll be in the safe hands of the Discover Adventure crew, including leaders and medics. Leaders are professional, friendly and experienced in running adventure trips worldwide, and are trained in first aid, mechanics, haggling, cocktail making and even bad joke-telling!

Who is on the team so far?

We already have an incredible group of 14, including:

Andy Ball – The Joinery Network
Andy Charlesworth – Profine Group & Harry’s dad
Danny Jones – Stuga Machinery
Emi Arnaut – DoorCo
Gareth ‘Greenie’ Green – Stuga Machinery
Gareth Jones – Solar Fabrications
Gemma Diratzonian – Yale DWS
Julie Holmes – Mila
Sam Nuckey – Window Ware & The Joinery Network
Sandrine Oakes – friend of…
Sarah Ball – PiGs AKA People in Glazing Society & Modern Joinery News & Women in Fenestration Network
Sarah Hitchins – The Residence Collection & Window Widgets
Sion Buckley – DoorCo

Do I need to be fit?

You don’t need to be an elite athlete—but a good level of fitness is important. The challenge is designed to push you, and we’ll help you build your endurance through training.

Have you got any training sessions before Peru?

Yes — and they’re already underway!

Following our successful Snowdon climb, we have three more UK training sessions:

9 May – Scafell Pike
13 June – Ben Nevis
11 July – Edale Skyline

Family and friends are very welcome to join these sessions!

After reading this, do you want to get involved?

Here are three ways to support:

1 – There’s still time to join the team – we still have 6 places available – speak directly to Sarah on 07540 049655
2 – Join a UK training session – see the dates above
3 – Donate to Harry’s Pals via our JustGiving page: Trek the Inca Trail for Harry’s Pals – JustGiving

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Harry’s Pals acknowledged in Houses of Parliament

George Lewis — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 15:06:35 +0000

Hayley Charlesworth, Founder of our Charity of the Year, Harry’s Pals, discusses being mentioned by MP Matt Bishop in the Houses of Parliament earlier this month (January 2026), and the impact this has on promoting the work the charity does.

“On Tuesday 13 January 2026, MP Matt Bishop attended Health and Social Care Questions in Parliament alongside Wes Streeting and his team of ministers, using the opportunity to raise awareness of the ongoing gap in support that continues to affect parent carers nationwide.

“For so many families, these gaps place immense pressure on mental wellbeing and everyday life — and having them acknowledged at this level truly matters.

“During his second question, Matt specifically mentioned Harry’s Pals, recognising the charity’s commitment to improving the mental wellbeing of parent carers. Hearing work acknowledged in Parliament was incredibly meaningful and represents a vital step towards wider understanding and change.

“As a direct result of this discussion, we have now secured a meeting with MP Ashley Dalton, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department of Health and Social Care. This opportunity to engage directly with decision-makers gives us hope that the voices of parent carers are being heard allowing us to inspire and galvanise some real change.

“We want to extend our sincere thanks to Matt Bishop MP for his dedication to getting carer issues onto the political agenda and for his continued support of Harry’s Pals. Advocacy like this plays a crucial role in driving progress and ensuring that parent carers are not overlooked.

“By working together — families, charities, and policymakers — we are confident that meaningful, lasting change can be created for families like mine and for parent carers across the UK.”

For more information about Harry’s Pals, visit: Harry’s Pals | Providing support to parents following a harrowing diagnosis.

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Harry’s Pals webinar provides introduction to volunteering

George Lewis — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 16:54:27 +0000

PiGs’ Charity of the Year, Harry’s Pals, the charity dedicated to providing emotional support to parents of children with life limiting and life threatening conditions, is set to host a short introductory webinar on Thursday 22 January at 7pm, aimed at anyone considering volunteering but unsure what it truly involves.

The session is designed to offer an honest and accessible insight into volunteering with the charity, highlighting how even a small commitment of time can have a life changing impact for families facing incredibly challenging circumstances. It will also explore the personal rewards that volunteering can bring, from developing new skills to gaining a strong sense of purpose and connection.

As part of the webinar, David Hyner will speak about the wider benefits of volunteering and share practical ways people can raise money for a cause without the pressure of directly asking for donations. His contribution will focus on making fundraising feel achievable and approachable for anyone interested in supporting a charity.

Members of the Harry’s Pals team will also outline the different ways individuals can get involved, explaining the roles available and the real difference volunteers help to make every day.

Open to those actively looking to volunteer as well as anyone who is simply curious, the webinar offers a valuable opportunity to learn more about Harry’s Pals, its work, and how support of any size can make a meaningful difference.

Places on the webinar are free but registration is required. More information and sign up details are available here: Volunteer – Harrys Pals

Or for more information about Harry’s Pals, visit: Harry’s Pals | Providing support to parents following a harrowing diagnosis.

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Harry’s Pals to host free Volunteer Webinar

George Lewis — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 13:54:29 +0000

PiGs’ Charity of the Year, Harry’s Pals, is inviting people to learn more about its vital work by joining a free online Volunteer Webinar in January, as demand for support from families continues to grow.

The charity, which supports parents of severely ill and disabled children, relies heavily on volunteers to help it be there for families when they need it most.

The upcoming webinar is designed as a relaxed and friendly introduction to Harry’s Pals, offering insight into the difference volunteers can make, even with a small amount of time.

Taking place online on Thursday 22 January 2026 at 7.00pm, the session carries no pressure or commitment and is open to anyone curious about volunteering. It will feature guest speaker David Hyner, who will deliver an engaging and interactive talk aimed at inspiring people to make a positive difference.

Harry’s Pals is encouraging businesses and organisations to share details of the webinar with their teams, whether by forwarding information internally or including it in staff newsletters.

The charity also welcomes conversations with organisations that have a focus on community support and staff wellbeing as part of their CSR activities, with opportunities ranging from volunteering time and skills sharing to more informal involvement.

Places on the webinar are free but registration is required. More information and sign up details are available here: Volunteer – Harrys Pals

You can also watch the charity’s impact video here, which shows the difference this support makes for families: Harry‘s Pals – YouTube

Or for more information about Harry’s Pals, visit: Harry’s Pals | Providing support to parents following a harrowing diagnosis.

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Harry’s Pals Christmas Auction 2025 ends on 12 December!

George Lewis — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 15:39:49 +0000

With the festive season fast approaching, there are now just under over a week left to place your bids in the Harry’s Pals 2025 Christmas Auction. The auction closes on Friday, 12 December 2025, when winners will be announced.

From dreamy getaway stays to family-friendly experiences and unique keepsakes, the auction features a diverse range of items perfect for Christmas gifts or self-treats — all supporting a worthy cause. Highlights include:

A day cruising a canal boat along picturesque Northamptonshire waterways.
A luxurious stay for two at the historic Coombe Abbey Hotel near Coventry — complete with dinner, bed and breakfast.
An adrenaline-fuelled go-karting experience with UK-wide access thanks to TeamSport.
A bespoke portrait by acclaimed artist Rufus Wright.
A 2026 hospitality package for a T20 match at Northamptonshire County Cricket Club — including match tickets, buffet, and pitch-view suite access.

To take part, simply email info@harryspals.org with the lot number and your highest bid. Some lots have reserve prices, so please refer to the auction listing.

All proceeds go to PiGs’ Charity of the Year, Harry’s Pals, a registered charity dedicated to providing emotional support, counselling, and short-break respite to parents of children with severe illness or disability.

Don’t miss your chance to grab an amazing gift, and make a difference.

For more information, visit: Check out our fantastic Christmas auction! – Locksmith

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Harry’s Pals Christmas 2025: Helping families in need

George Lewis — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 11:36:54 +0000

Hayley Charlesworth, Founder of PiGs Charity of the Year, Harry’s Pals, discusses how to support parents with children with a disability, by fundraising in many different ways over the Christmas period.

The countdown to Christmas is on! I hope you’re looking forward to the festive season and making some special memories with family and friends.

While Christmas is a time of joy for many, it can also be an incredibly difficult season for families whose lives look very different from what they once imagined.

Harry’s Pals (the PiGs charity for 25/26) support mums and dads who have received the devastating news that their child has a severe illness or disability.

This time of year can be especially tough and full of reflection and pressure to feel festive when, in reality, many parents are simply trying to get through each day. It’s no surprise that when January arrives, more parents than ever reach out to Harry’s Pals for counselling and emotional support.

This year we’re asking the window industry to get behind this small yet desperately needed charity by supporting the Harry’s Pals Christmas campaign so that they can help to bring comfort to more families when they need it most.

There are lots of simple, meaningful ways to take part:

Host a Christmas Jumper Day – Whether at work, school, or with friends, it’s a fun and festive way to raise funds and lift spirits! (We’ve attached a poster to help you spread the word.)

Skip the cards and donate instead – Instead of buying and posting Christmas cards this year, why not send our virtual card (attached) and donate what you would have spent to Harry’s Pals?

Make a donation – Every contribution, big or small, makes a real difference. You can donate directly to our Christmas appeal here: Harry’s Pals Christmas Heroes – JustGiving. Or scan the QR code above.

Every small act of kindness helps them continue to provide much-needed emotional support to parents facing the most challenging circumstances.

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Yale raises funds for Harry’s Pals with Halloween fun

George Lewis — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 15:03:21 +0000

At the end of October, a team from Yale DWS spent the day baking, dressing up, and getting into the Halloween spirit, all in support of the charity Harry’s Pals.

Colleagues took part in a Halloween Bake Off and dress-up event, helping to raise funds for the charity, which supports parents of seriously ill babies and children.

The fundraising will continue next October when Head of Brand & Fenestration Lead, Residential, Gemma Diratzonian, joins other members of the glazing sector to take part in the PiGs AKA People in Glazing Society ‘Machu PiGchu’ challenge and walking the Inca Trail.

Gemma aims to raise £3,500 for Harry’s Pals. The team said it was proud to support such a meaningful cause, and looks forward to continuing its efforts in the months ahead.

To donate to Gemma, please click here: Gemma Diratzonian is fundraising for Harry’s Pals

Or for more information about Yale DWS, visit: English | Yale

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