Consortium Supports Inaugural Ladies’ Lunch for HEY Smile Foundation and Sailors’ Children’s Society

​Consortium Professional Recruitment Directors Hannah Blades and Dawn Parker were proud to attend the inaugural Ladies’ Lunch, a landmark event hosted by HEY Smile Foundation and The Sailors’ Children’s Society. The event brought together more than 300 guests at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Hull, with the shared goal of raising vital funds for two charities that provide essential support to families and children in need.

An inspiring afternoon

The afternoon combined networking, inspiring stories, and fundraising activities, with a keynote speech from Louise Minchin. Her message of resilience, leadership, and courage resonated strongly with attendees and set the tone for an uplifting event.

A charity auction, led by Caroline Hawley, was another highlight of the day. Thanks to the generosity of guests, sponsors, and supporters, the event raised an incredible £30,000 (after costs) for the two charities. This funding will help sustain their work supporting vulnerable families and children across the region.

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Backing from the business community

The event was supported by a host of generous sponsors, including Summit Drive / Motorlease UK as main sponsor, and associate sponsors such as Gosschalks Solicitors, Be Brand, and The Seafarers’ Charity. The atmosphere was vibrant and inclusive, with BBC Look North’s Gemma Dawson acting as host and helping to guide the programme.

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Consortium’s reflections

For Hannah and Dawn, the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful inaugural event was both rewarding and inspiring:“We were delighted to attend the first Ladies’ Lunch and to support two charities whose work makes such a difference. The afternoon was a fantastic reminder of the power of community and collaboration, and it was wonderful to see so many people come together with a shared purpose.”

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