Burnley woman’s dream trip to Haworth made possible by national social care charity

Jackie, who lives at Making Space’s Pratt Street service in Burnley, was chosen as the first winner of the charity’s new Kind Hearts Fund after being nominated by Support Worker Rosemary Hartley.

The fund forms part of Making Space’s new Giving with Purpose fundraising strategy, which aims to help people who draw on the charity’s support enjoy meaningful experiences, build independence and prepare for future challenges.

Jackie’s nomination centred around her long-standing love of classic literature and films, and her dream of visiting Haworth - home of the Brontë sisters.

Rosemary wrote:

“Jackie has never been to Haworth and would dearly love to see where the Brontë sisters lived and the surrounding countryside which inspired their novels. Her interest was recently reignited after a trip to the cinema to see Wuthering Heights, which she thoroughly enjoyed. Jackie has always loved classic literature and old films, and she would be delighted to visit the parsonage where the sisters grew up and perhaps buy some memorabilia from the gift shops. Jackie does not get out and about very much and this experience would mean so much to Jackie and would be something she would remember and talk about for the rest of her life.”

After hearing the news, Rosemary said Jackie was “beaming” and excitedly began planning which souvenirs she might bring home from the trip.

Jackie’s dream day became possible thanks to Marcus Edwards, a Personal Travel Consultant with Not Just Travel and long-standing supporter of Making Space. Touched by Jackie’s story, Marcus volunteered to organise the trip, acting as chauffeur and tour guide for the day while also covering all costs for Jackie and Rosemary.

Marcus said: “I am so happy to be able to support the work that Making Space does in the community to improve the lives of those who need a friendly face, a helping hand or some much needed company and kindness. I was really touched by this lady's story and wanted to provide an experience that would make her smile, provide an opportunity for a break and for her to make some happy memories in a place she really wanted to visit.”

During the trip, Jackie visited the Brontë Parsonage Museum, explored Haworth’s famous cobbled streets and enjoyed lunch in one of the village’s cafés before travelling to Thornton to learn more about the Brontë family’s early life. Reflecting on the experience, Jackie said:

“I enjoyed every part of the day. The Brontë Parsonage was wonderful, and I loved listening to the guide at the museum in Thornton. I especially loved the Old Curiosity Shop. It looked like something from an old movie with chandeliers, beautiful mirrors and all the herbal soaps and lotions and potions. I absolutely adored it. Thank you for everything. It was a very special day that I will always remember.”

Rosemary added:

“Jackie is a very thoughtful and reserved person, but it was clear how much the experience meant to her. She kept saying how much she had enjoyed the day and really took everything in. It was wonderful to see her experience something she had wanted to do for such a long time.” 

Bob Towers, Making Space Fundraising Manager, said:

“Jackie’s story shows how kindness can be turned into meaningful experiences. Through our new Giving with Purpose strategy and dedicated funds, we’re giving supporters more choice and a stronger connection to the impact of their donations, helping more people achieve their goals, prepare for the future and build independence.”

Marcus’ support for Jackie’s trip is also part of a wider partnership with Making Space. As the charity’s Independent Travel Consultant, Marcus donates directly to Making Space whenever holidays, UK breaks, cruises or travel insurance are booked through him, at no extra cost to customers. Find out more at notjustholidays.com/makingspace.

To find out more about supporting Making Space, fundraising or donating to the charity’s Giving with Purpose funds, visit makingspace.co.uk.