SERC’s Business Support Team are planning to raise vital funds for NI Hospice over the next year through a variety of events and activities, culminating in participation of the NI Hospice’s annual Dragon Boat Race on the Lagan River next September 2027.
Leading the charge for their efforts are Business Support Managers, Pamela Kelly and Phil Martin. Pamela said, “This year, our team has suffered the loss of a dear colleague and some of our colleges have lost family members, whilst others have family members receiving palliative care. All have been supported by the work and dedication of NI Hospice. It is in the memory of those that have passed away that we, as a team, wanted to give something back to the charity who has been there for people we know and love, when they have been at the most heart breaking time of their lives.”
She added, “We are planning to run, walk, climb, bake, make and do what ever we can to raise some funds and we would love you all to support our efforts with any donation – no amount is too small - throughout the year.”
Kicking off the fundraising efforts for the team were Phil and his amazing daughter Amelia (13), who took part in a ‘little dander’ through the Mourne Mountains on a 'dusk-to-dawn' 9-peaks challenge over the weekend of 11 October 2026. Phil said, “My own father, Robert, Amelia’s grandfather, is receiving palliative care at home through NI Hospice. Amelia was keen to do something for the charity, and it made sense to connect this with what we were planning to do through the Business Support team’s fundraising efforts at SERC.
“Amelia wanted to complete a challenge in the mountains and decided to do it at night as it would be more difficult! We made it to the summit of nine peaks - Pigeon Rock, Muck, Carn, Slieve Loughshannagh, Slieve Meelbeg, Slieve Meelmore, Slieve Bearnagh, Slieve Commedagh, Slieve Donard - which included five of the highest peaks in the Mourne Mountains. We started at midnight and summitted Donard just after 9am. It was amazing and emotional, and I am extremely proud of Amelia’s determination and stamina. It was her idea to do the challenge for NI Hospice. She has already raised almost £1300 and you can make a donation on her Just Giving page. All donations greatly appreciated.”
Well done to Amelia and Phil. We look forward to hearing about the efforts of the Business Support team throughout the coming year.
