Summary
Pride is a glorious celebration of love, acceptance and equality for all, and our hospices are proud to support communities across Sussex. Community fundraiser Henna Edwards has been organising our participation in this year’s parade, and it’s a special one as for the first time we join with sister hospice Chestnut Tree House to march together. Here, they tell us more about their involvement.
Brighton Pride is always a special moment in our city’s calendar. But this year marks something even more meaningful for us as a hospice. For the first time ever, Martlets and Chestnut Tree House will be marching together as one organisation. It’s a joyful reflection of our recent merger and a proud moment for us as we unite as one team, walking side by side in celebration.
As hospices, we play a vital role in some of the most personal and emotional moments of people’s lives. And so, it’s essential that every person, no matter their gender identity, sexuality, or background, feels seen, valued, and safe in our care.
#TeamMartlets at a previous Brighton Pride celebration
We’ll be joining the parade with a group of staff, volunteers and some Chestnut Tree House children, representing both hospices, marching, standing proudly for the LGBTQ+ community. Being visible at Pride matters. As local hospices, we serve an incredibly diverse region, from the heart of Brighton and Hove to towns and villages across East and West Sussex. We care for people of all backgrounds, ages, and identities, and Pride is one way we show that everyone is welcome.
Personally, organising our Pride presence this year has meant a lot to me. As a queer person myself and a member of our Group’s community fundraising team, being part of this, and leading our involvement, has felt incredibly meaningful. It’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly. Having worked for the organisation for three years now, Pride has become one of my favourite events of the year, not only as a way for me to celebrate my queer identity, but as a community fundraiser. It feels like the culmination of everything I work towards; it’s a powerful platform to shout loudly about the incredible work we do and raise awareness of hospice care in our community. I’ve always felt supported in bringing my full self to work here, and it’s something I want every patient, supporter, volunteer, and colleague to feel too. Pride is a celebration, but it’s also a statement of allyship and love.
Our work spans far beyond one parade or one weekend. Across Sussex, our Community Fundraising team is out connecting with schools, local groups, businesses and individuals who all want to support hospice care in their own ways. From Hove to Haywards Heath, Worthing to Uckfield and beyond, we’re here for our communities, and we’re powered by them too. Collectively, our services reach thousands of people across Sussex and each one deserves inclusive, compassionate care when they need it most.
Henna (left) with Martlets’ colleagues at Brighton Pride
This summer, we’re helping families in Making Memories together, our hospices help families live life to the full in the time they have. Together, we’re making memories which will not only be celebrated, but bring comfort in the years to come. You can support us by taking on activities like our Summer Stroll walking challenge, cycle rides, running one of the marathons, attending events like summer fêtes and so much more – there are so many ways to get involved. We are here all year round. And the support of our community is what allows us to keep caring.
Whether you’re cheering us on at the parade, taking on some fundraising, or simply sharing our message, thank you. Together, we’re building a future where hospice care is open, inclusive and shaped by love.