Care South is proud to once again sponsor the upcoming Walk for Wards fundraiser, the flagship event of the University Hospitals Dorset (UHD) NHS Charity. This much-loved community event will take place at the beautiful Upton Country Park and House on Saturday 13 September 2025, and promises to be a day filled with togetherness, celebration and community spirit.

Each year, Walk for Wards brings together families, friends, local organisations and supporters who step out on scenic 3km, 5km, or 8km routes to raise money for wards and services across University Hospitals Dorset. Many walk in memory of loved ones, while others take part to celebrate recovery or simply to show their gratitude for the care they or their families have received. Over time, the event has become a cherished date in the Dorset calendar, drawing people together for a shared purpose.

A Festival for a Cause

Walk for Wards is more than just a sponsored walk – it is a celebration of life and community. As Hayley Harris from the UHD Charity explained during an interview with Hot Radio on 27 August:

“Walk for Wards is our flagship event and it’s a chance for people to come down to Upton Country Park and fundraise for a ward or department that’s close to their heart. That could be theatres, neonatal, oncology, dementia, elderly care – anywhere that touches somebody’s heart. We’ve described it before as a little mini festival, with live bands, entertainment and of course the all-important complimentary burger at the end from Rapid Relief.”

The event includes live music, stalls, family-friendly entertainment and delicious food, creating a festival-style atmosphere. Hayley also confirmed that Gully Bear, a much-loved favourite with families, will be making a return: “He’s had a little bit of surgery himself, a new zip, and he’s raring to go!”

With so many different elements, Walk for Wards ensures there is something for everyone – whether you are taking part in the walk or simply coming along to support, enjoy the entertainment, and be part of the occasion.

Care South’s Commitment to Community

For Care South, Walk for Wards is about more than sponsorship. It is about actively supporting the NHS and creating opportunities for residents, families and colleagues to come together.

Chris Golding, Head of Marketing and PR at Care South, shared on Hot Radio why the event is so important:

“Last year was our first year and the engagement that we got was wonderful. We actually had two very lovely residents from one of our homes taking part, really enjoying themselves. This year it’s getting bigger and better, with every one of our nine local homes pulling together teams of residents, families, and staff members.”

By encouraging participation across all of its homes, Care South helps build excitement and motivation in the months leading up to the event.

Food, Fun and Friendship

Care South’s ethos is a commitment to enriching residents’ lives through food, fun and friendship – and Walk for Wards embodies all three. Chris explained:

“Knowing Walk for Wards is on the calendar each year, residents begin preparing throughout the summer – mobilising and exercising ahead of the 3k route. It widens social circles, encourages wellbeing, and gives everyone something exciting to look forward to.”

This preparation is about more than physical fitness. It fosters purpose, teamwork and anticipation, ensuring that the day itself is full of shared achievement, laughter, and connection. Families and residents will enjoy not just the walk, but also the entertainment, the food and the chance to celebrate together.

Looking Ahead

Walk for Wards 2025 is set to be the biggest and best yet, thanks to the ongoing support of local businesses, organisations and the wider community. Combining the joy of walking for a cause with the energy of a festival, it is an event that leaves everyone with memories to treasure.

Chris summed it up perfectly:

“At the end of the day, what an amazing cause to be raising money for. We love University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity and we’re so excited to be part of Walk for Wards again this year.”

Care South is proud to stand alongside UHD Charity in supporting this important event, and looks forward to seeing residents, families and friends enjoy a day filled with food, fun and friendship.

You can sign up to participate here: Walk for Wards 2025 | University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity

Walk for Wards takes place on Saturday 13 September 2025 at Upton Country Park and House.

Listen to the recordings below from the 27 August Hot Radio Interview:

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