When Zoe’s Place baby hospice in Liverpool announced that it would have to close unless it could raise a huge £6.4 million to save it, local families decided they weren’t going to let that happen.
Among them were Lauren Williams and her nine-year-old daughter Lily Williams from Aintree who made thousands of pounds from making and delivering loom bands as they enlisted the support of as many people as they could.
The huge outpouring of public support across the Liverpool City Region meant that Zoe’s Place, which helps children aged under five with chronic or life-limiting conditions, has been able to defy the odds and remain open.
Lauren and Lily have now been honoured with the Sefton Charity Champion Award sponsored by Halliwell Jones in Southport at the 2025 Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards on an emotional night at The Grand in Southport.
Lily said: “I watched a video that told me that Zoe’s Place is closing down and it made me very sad. I know that Zoe’s Place does a lot of amazing things for poorly children in my city and beyond and I wanted to do something to try and raise money to help keep it open.”
Lily had recently attended a Taylor Swift concert when she heard the news that Zoe’s Place faced closure and was deeply inspired by the community she joined when becoming a “Swiftie”.
Along with her mum they sourced all the materials they required to sell friendship bracelets for and made them in abundance to help spread happiness and encouragement at this difficult time for Zoe’s place and the community.
Lauren or Lily sold thousands upon thousands of bracelets which led to the two of them making bracelets before and after school, sourcing more materials, delivering bracelets, posting and even leaving stock of bracelets in community premises to be sold to customers.
They worked tirelessly and their efforts were recognised by Zoe’s Place as Lily was invited to attend their centre as a special guest.
Zoe’s Place was ultimately saved for the benefit of the Merseyside community and it was all down to people like Lauren and Lily who helped to make that happen.
Mum Lauren said: “At just nine years old, Lily showed an extraordinary level of compassion, initiative, and determination.
“When she heard about the potential closure of the hospice, she didn’t hesitate to take action. Lily decided to make and sell handmade bracelets to raise much-needed funds, and in doing so, she raised an impressive £5,618.
“Though we lost count of the number of bracelets she created, we estimate it was well over 300, each one made with love and care.
“Her tireless dedication to this cause has touched the hearts of so many.
“Her ability to step up, take accountability, and make a tangible difference is a testament to her character, and it fills me with immense pride as her parent, as well as her friends, family, and community.
“For someone so young to be so driven by the desire to help others is truly inspiring.
“I don’t think Lily fully realises the magnitude of her efforts or the positive impact she has had, and I am delighted she has been recognised for her exceptional dedication and heart.”
The Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards are organised annually by Mikhail Hotel And Leisure Group and Stand Up For Southport with media support from In Demand Radio, with each of the 13 categories sponsored by supportive local businesses.
Over 2,000 nominations were received for this year’s Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards.
Next year’s awards will take place at The Grand on Lord Street in Southport on Friday 24th April 2026.
For more details please email: mediaandrewbrown@gmail.com
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