RSBC’s annual Christmas Celebration filled with laughter, music, and generosity

On Tuesday 5th December 2023, the Royal Society for Blind Children held its annual Christmas Celebration at the Life Without Limits Centre (LWLC) in London. Blind and partially sighted children and young people, accompanied by their families and friends, as well as our dedicated volunteers and trustees, and staff members came together to celebrate this very festive time of year. We also welcomed fantastic partners, supporters, and some of RSBC’s 2024 London Marathon team to our celebration.

Celebrating young people’s talent and creativity

It is always wonderful to come together and hear from the musical and creative talents of young people. The ambiance of the festive LWLC with Christmas lights twinkling, added an extra layer of enchantment.

We were privileged to have Jon Culshaw, a dedicated and longstanding ambassador for RSBC, as the host for the celebration event. Jon brought comedy, song and so many laughs to the young attendees and our audience.

We also heard from RSBC’s new CEO, Julie Davis, who was welcomed by Chair of Trustees, Patrick Plant. Julie was absolutely delighted to be there and meet the young people and hear their amazing performances.

The highlight of the evening was the stunning performances by our talented young people. Rona, Lilly and Zaynab delighted us with their beautifully sung festive songs. Jude, Francis and Chapman wowed us with their musical talent on their choice of instruments and brought the spirit of Christmas alive. Jacob reminded us of some classic Christmas cheer with a superb reading. Malachi moved us with an original poem, offering insight into the challenges and emotions of sight loss—earning a standing ovation, along with our host, Jon Culshaw.

A young man playing piano on with a Christmas tree in the background

Chapman, one of the talented young people, playing a Christmas song on piano.

A man with grey hair standing up on a stage with a micro facing an audience.

RSBC’s ambassador, Jon Culshaw, hosting our Christmas Celebration 2023.

Raising much needed funds for RSBC

We were lucky to receive many kind donations in the form of raffle and auction prizes, all aimed at raising funds for RSBC’s range of services dedicated to blind and partially sighted children, young people and their families. There were many winners on the night receiving a fantastic array of prizes including a Christmas Hamper and tickets for “Disney on Ice”. Our wonderful audience kindly made donations for the festive drinks and mince pies as they celebrated Christmas with us. These funds will play a crucial role in supporting our range of activities for children and young people in 2024.

A group of people standing around a table and wearing orange RSBC volunteer t-shirts.

RSBC’s volunteers helping with the raffle and auction.

A wonderful festive night

Everyone at the Life Without Limits Centre enjoyed a delightful Christmas evening, truly setting the stage for the approaching festive season. As we rounded off the night with everyone participating in “We wish you a Merry Christmas”, we can conclude that it has been a fantastic year for RSBC.

A young man wearing a christmas hat singing in front of an audience.

Jude, one of the talented young people, singing in front a captivated audience in the atrium.

Carla Rose-Hardman, Services Director said:

“Today’s Christmas Celebration really has been a highlight of the RSBC calendar. We were privileged to hear from so many talented young people this evening, and think everyone here will testify to how moved and impressed we have been by them. I’d like to thank everyone who joined us or performed for this wonderful celebration as we round off an amazing year at RSBC. I’d also like to thank our amazing volunteers, trustees, and supporters of RSBC for their dedication in 2023.”

Callum’s been a trustee with RSBC since May 2021. He’s also the Chair of Governors of RSBC’s Dorton College, a specialist further education college for vision impaired young people aged 16-25. We spoke to Callum about what’s involved in being a trustee, why he does it, and what to consider if you’re thinking about becoming […]

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