Busy year ahead for Reuben's Retreat

Well-known local charity Reuben’s Retreat has announced a busy programme of fundraising events for the year ahead as work continues towards the final stages of its long-awaited development.

The charity is encouraging supporters to get involved in a range of challenges and community events throughout 2026 under the theme “Do Good Whilst You Feel Good”, with activities designed to raise vital funds while bringing people together. 

Events planned for the year include both local and international challenges, giving supporters the chance to test themselves physically while supporting the charity’s work. 

Among the events confirmed are: 

• REUder Cup Golf Day: 24th April at Mottram Hall 
• Great Manchester Run: 31st May 
• Yorkshire Three Peaks Solstice Hike: 20th June 
• Edale Skyline Challenge: 1st August 
• Snowdon Sunrise Hike: 26th September 
• Ultra Challenge events in the Lake District and Peak District 
• Mount Toubkal Charity Trek: September 2026 
• Everest Base Camp Charity Trek: September 2026 

The charity’s flagship fundraising gala, REUBall, will also return on 12th September, bringing together hundreds of supporters and businesses for an evening aimed at raising essential funds for the Retreat’s work. 

Alongside fundraising events, the charity has also shared positive news about progress on its building project. Planning permission for the final phase of development has now been submitted, with validation expected in the coming months. A full design team is being assembled, and the charity hopes to begin work on site before the end of the year. 

The project will complete the transformation of the former Victorian hospital into a sanctuary for families who have suffered the loss of a child or who are facing life-limiting illness, with new apartments, garden spaces and a community hub still to come. 

Reuben’s Retreat says the support of the local community continues to make a real difference. The charity is currently supporting 794 individuals, providing services such as respite apartment stays, therapy sessions, family training days, and support groups for bereaved parents. One family recently said: 

“Our first visit to Reuben’s Retreat was incredible. The children loved the animals, and the staff were so welcoming. It was the highlight of our weekend.” 

Supporters are also being encouraged to help through workplace giving schemes, sponsorship, or by taking part in the charity’s Brick by Brick campaign, where a £123 donation is recognised with a named brick in the Retreat itself, becoming a permanent part of the build. 

Lisa Coggin, Fundraising Champion, said: 

“This isn’t just a building project - it’s a promise that Reuben’s Retreat will be here for generations. As we move towards the final phase, we’re inviting the community to keep walking alongside us - brick by brick, step by step.” 

You can find out more by visiting: www.reubensretreat.org