The Winter Ball in aid of Bradford Hospitals Charity’s ‘Home from Home’ Appeal is set to return on Saturday 29th November 2025, promising an evening of elegance, entertainment, and fundraising for the city’s tiniest patients.
Last year’s event welcomed more than 220 guests and raised £11,000 through ticket sales, a raffle, an auction, and the popular Balloon Bonanza. Funds went directly to the ‘Home from Home’ Appeal, which aims to improve facilities for families with babies in the neonatal unit at Bradford Royal Infirmary (BRI). Planned upgrades include additional en-suite bedrooms, refurbished living spaces, an updated family kitchen, and tranquil gardens and play areas for siblings.
Andrea Firth, a specialist nurse on the BRI’s neonatal unit and organiser of the ball, said: “Working on the neonatal unit, I see first-hand how important it is for families to be close to their babies during such a vulnerable time. The ‘Home from Home’ Appeal is about giving parents the comfort, space and support they need when their world has been turned upside down. That’s why I’m so passionate about organising the Winter Ball – it’s a wonderful evening that not only brings people together, but also helps us make a real difference to the families we care for every day.”
This year’s ball will take place at Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford and will be compered by broadcaster Christa Ackroyd. Guests can enjoy a red carpet drinks reception, fine dining, live music, dancing, and an auction and raffle with the chance to win a variety of prizes.
Laura Riach, Director of Bradford Hospitals Charity, commented: “The Winter Ball is more than just a night of celebration, it’s about our community coming together to make a lasting difference for families who need it most. We’re absolutely delighted that planning approval was granted for our ‘Home from Home’ at Bradford Royal Infirmary earlier this month, a vital step towards building a haven for the 500-plus families with babies in neonatal intensive care each year. Last year’s event raised an incredible £11,000, and we’re determined to build on that success. Every ticket, every donation, and every prize won helps families stay close to their babies when they need each other most.”
Tickets for the Winter Ball are priced at £65 per person. For more information or to book, visit www.bradfordhospitalscharity.org/neonatal-appeal
