Focus Foundation’s Winter Ball raises over £120k for local charities

An unforgettable night celebrating stage and screen, and the best of Sussex talent.

Focus Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Focus Group, has proudly announced the resounding success of its third annual Winter Ball, held on Saturday, February 1 at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Brighton. This year’s highly-anticipated event surpassed all expectations, raising the astounding sum of over £120k – all in support of Sussex-based grassroots charities. The Winter Ball is Focus Foundation’s biggest annual fundraiser, bringing together businesses, supporters and charities from across Sussex for a night that combines entertainment with a sense of purpose.

A night of magic inspired by stage and screen

Inspired by the world of stage and screen, the Winter Ball delighted guests with special performances from a choir, made up of performers from local charities, followed by four talented Sussex Superstars finalists, with the evening finishing with an energetic set by Symphonic Ibiza that had everyone dancing the night away.

Show-stopping highlights

• Guest speakers: Glenys Creese, CEO of the Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity, took to the stage alongside parent Kate Ogden to share heartfelt insights into the critical role that funding plays in supporting grassroots charities. Adding to the evening’s inspiration, 2024 Paralympic table tennis medallists Bly Twomey and Will Bayley captivated the audience with their powerful and motivating stories, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

• Sussex Superstars Grand Finale: The event featured the thrilling conclusion of the Sussex Superstars competition. Talented local performers showcased their skills before an esteemed panel of celebrity judges, including patron Anita Dobson, actor and TV personality Chrisopher Biggins and singer, dancer and choreographer Jacquie Brunjes, culminating in a live crowning of the competition’s winner – Ellen Zhang, a talented 15-year-old violinist who performed the iconic theme tune from Schindler’s List. Ellen received £500 cash prize and a paid festival contract for summer 2025 as curated by E3 Events.

• Charity auction and raffle: Guests enthusiastically participated in the night’s auctions and prize draw, bidding on exclusive prizes and unique experiences. The proceeds from these activities played a significant role in achieving the remarkable fundraising total.

Supporting local communities

Dan Slatter, CEO of Fareshare Sussex & Surrey, shared his experience of the night, saying: “Not only did our table have a fun filled, fantastic evening but left feeling inspired by Focus Foundation’s vision to support regular charities like us. It was also so encouraging to see some wonderful organisations making a huge difference to people’s lives with the other featured charities.”

Half of the funds raised will directly benefit five Sussex-based grassroots charities, including Bramber Bakehouse, Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity (DVLCC), Esteem, Fareshare Sussex & Surrey, and Team Domenica. These organisations are dedicated to supporting underprivileged children, advancing mental health initiatives and fostering community development across the region. The remaining 50% will be allocated to support a multitude of charities that have sought Focus Foundation’s assistance.

Commenting on the night’s success, Chris Goodman, Co-Founder and Trustee of Focus Foundation, said: “Our Winter Ball is more than just a night of entertainment for our guests, it’s a celebration of community, resilience, and the incredible power of coming together for a greater cause. These vital funds will allow the beneficiaries we support to continue to thrive in what is a challenging time for grassroots charities, proving that we are incredible, together.”

Katie Gibson, Relationship Manager for Focus Foundation, said “It was my first year working with the team and speaking at the event with our Junior Ambassador Ben Macleod and I couldn’t have been prouder of what we’ve been able to achieve. We gained a host of new supporters and are looking forward to collaborating with businesses to bring their CSR targets to fruition.”

Headline sponsor for this year’s event was Giacom with supporting sponsors Gamma, Greve & Son, Houlihan Lokey, Invictus Wealth Management, Travel Counsellors, Watson Associates, and event partner E3 Events.

Outside of the annual events and individual efforts, Focus Foundation 500 ensures access to regular funding, enabling the Foundation to respond quickly to grant requests, completing assessments and delivering funding in a timely fashion. The cost of joining the club aimed at businesses is a monthly donation of £100, which will help to change the lives of over 100 people every year.* Contact info@focusfoundation.org.uk for more information.

*This is based on £30,000 of grants that Foundation has issued and the impact assessments showing that the beneficiaries will number over 2500 people

Photography: Miles Davies