Cheltenham Firms Join Forces to raise £20,000 in aid of Youth Charity The Rock and Local Heritage Project

Cheltenham

Four local businesses have joined forces to raise £20,000 for two charities - The Rock based in Cheltenham dedicated to supporting young people to thrive, especially in the face of challenging circumstances, and FISHAC (Friends of Imperial Square, Heritage and Conservation) to continue the restoration of the railings and ornamental entrances at Imperial Square Gardens.



Frank Smith & Co Solicitors, JMP Insurance, HeadOn Public Relations and FISHAC, will host the Grand Coronation Ball on Saturday, 7th February 2026 at The Queens Hotel Cheltenham, which has generously donated use of its Regency Suite ballroom and staff for the evening.



Coinciding with World Mental Health Day (10 October), The Rock is highlighting the growing mental health challenges facing children and young people. Data released this year from The Children’s Commissioner for England revealed that over a quarter of a million (270,300) children were still waiting for support after being referred to Children and Young People’s Mental Health Services in 2022-23. Increasingly, children as young as nine are struggling with anxiety, low confidence, and the pressures of poverty, digital life, and school.

Through long-term, individualised support, The Rock offers a safe and engaging space where young people can build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. Its programs - from evening and holiday youth work to mountain biking, mechanics, skateboarding, arts, cooking, archery, Lego therapy, and accredited courses - help participants develop practical skills and emotional wellbeing.

Now in its 16th year, The Rock supports more than 1,000 children and young people annually, from age seven upwards. With 15 staff and 27 volunteers, it works with over 19 secondary and primary schools, often via NHS referrals and social prescribers. In the past year, 102 young people received awards from the charity recognising their progress and achievement - proof of the resilience and confidence built when mental health and wellbeing are prioritised.

One of the most inspiring stories is Sage, who first connected with The Rock aged 9 and, after nine years of engagement, is now a staff member helping guide the next generation of young people. The Rock has provided her with a supportive community through all the ups and downs over the years.

Sage comments: “My experience as a young leader with The Rock has broadened my experience and knowledge as an individual, as I’ve developed leadership skills, taken advantage of opportunities that were generously offered to me and become involved in many exciting experiences. I have also achieved lots of milestones in leading which has pushed me out of my comfort zone, for example, leading a group in internet safety talks and leading group activities and games.”

The charity works in partnership with 19 schools across Cheltenham, including Gardners Lane and Oakwood Primary Schools, helping pupils build social, emotional, and practical skills - particularly at ages nine to 11, when transitions, such as to secondary school, can feel challenging. In recent feedback, 95% of young people involved in school group work reported improved teamwork skills, while 97% of primary-age participants said their ability to take on new challenges had increased. Through these programmes, children gain self-confidence, learn to cope with others, and make new friends, demonstrating why families and schools turn to The Rock for support.

Emily Hayet-Patino, Head of School Oakwood Primary School underlines this:

“The work that The Rock does is invaluable for the children at Oakwood. The Rock enables children to develop many skills that they have not yet developed. They learn to work as part of a team, they become more resilient and they have opportunities to express their worries around trying new things.



“A recent survey provided by the Rock shows how after their sessions the children feel more ready for secondary school and less anxious. They also feel more prepared for pastures new and more resilient. In school we see that the children also become more resilient to tasks and change, with some children who find academic work a challenge realising that they can be successful in other areas.”

Andy Macauly, Operations Director at The Rock added: “At The Rock, we see every day how young people thrive when they have a safe, supportive space to learn, grow, and belong. Over the past year alone, we’ve supported more than 1,000 young people, helping them build confidence, resilience, and essential life skills through school programs and community projects. Stories like Sage’s, who joined us as a nine-year-old and is now helping guide the next generation, remind us why this work matters so much.

“We’re so proud to be part of the Grand Coronation Ball - every ticket and donation will help make a real difference for young people in our community.”

John Phillips, Chairman of Friends of Imperial Square Heritage and Conservation (FISHAC), added: “It’s fantastic to be working again with such a wonderful team of local businesses for the Grand Coronation Ball. The funds raised will allow us to continue restoring the historic railings and ornamental entrances at Imperial Square Gardens, which were removed during World War Two. Events like this help preserve Cheltenham’s heritage while bringing the community together for a great cause, and we can’t wait for another memorable evening in support of both The Rock and FISHAC."



The Grand Coronation Ball will host 120 seats with tickets priced at £120 per person, or a table of 10 for £1,100. Guests attending the ball will also be able to access a special price for a stay at The Queens Hotel, Cheltenham.



Tickets are available to purchase here: https://buy.stripe.com/14A14n0braMkgrRdJd3oA00



To register interest to sponsor elements of the event or to provide auction prizes, please contact Margit.fscmarketing@gmail.com

More details about Cheltenham Firms Join Forces to raise £20,000 in aid of Youth Charity The Rock and Local Heritage Project (External Link)

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