DoubleTree by Hilton Metropole flies the fundraising flag

A host of performers, supporting local charities, competed to win in front of a celebrity panel.

We were honoured to be one of four fantastic local beneficiaries* on Saturday 24th June as part of this year’s Midsummer Ball, hosted by DoubleTree by Hilton Metropole Brighton.

Our act, The Outta Puff Daddys hot footed their dance moves in front of celebrity judging panel, Gail Porter, Robin Cousins and Jodie Michele and were commended for their fantastic on-stage camaraderie. Competition for the evening was fierce with acts from Aneesa Chaudhry on behalf of Together Co, The Spice Girls on behalf of Starr Trust and My Theatre Academy on behalf of You Raise Me Up. And even though we didn’t win on the night, The OPDs raised awareness of the importance of talking about mental health and breaking traditional masculine stereotypes, which can often hinder men to reach out for help.

Nick Pattison, nicknamed Hyphen, who’s been dancing with the Outta Puff Daddy’s for ten years and works at Focus Group said “the dancing is great for my physical health and the friendship is great for my mental health”.

Compared by David Hill of E3 Events (a Focus Foundation trustee) who was celebrating 25 years of E3 Events, guests were treated to a live band, silent auction, entertainment and even the dodgems!

A share of the evenings fundraising will be used by Focus Foundation for grass roots mental health initiatives where even small grants can make a huge difference.

With thanks to sponsors Creative Pod and Seico Insurance and Mortgages Ltd

*Participating charities

You Raise Me Up provide support to families and peers after the death of young person ages 16-25 years and mental health support, suicide prevention support.

Together Co help people increase independence, confidence, and their wellbeing through providing befriending, volunteering, and social prescribing. No one should be lonely or socially isolated.

The Starr Trust are removing roadblocks for young people to help them succeed and thrive in whatever they put their minds to. They do this by supporting individuals and groups with financial grants, sharing connections, and encouraging success.