Kind Hearts Fund helps Jackie’s dream trip to Haworth become a reality

Published 18 May 2026

To help launch our new Giving with Purpose fundraising strategy, we asked colleagues across Making Space to nominate people who draw on our support and share a dream or experience they would love to enjoy but had never been able to do.

We received so many thoughtful and heartfelt nominations, but one stood out in particular - Jackie, who lives at our Pratt Street service in Burnley.

Jackie was nominated by Support Worker Rosemary Hartley for the chance to visit Haworth, the home of the Brontë sisters, after recently being inspired by a cinema trip to see Wuthering Heights.

Thanks to the kindness and generosity of Marcus Edwards, a Personal Travel Consultant with Not Just Travel, Jackie’s dream became a reality.

Marcus, a long-standing supporter of Making Space, creates bespoke holidays, day trips and UK breaks for people wanting a stress-free experience. Touched by Jackie’s story, he volunteered to plan the entire day, acting as chauffeur and tour guide, while also generously covering all costs for Jackie and Rosemary.

Jackie’s original nomination read:

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 would likely enjoy the experience more with staff support, as unfamiliar surroundings can make her anxious and she does not like being the centre of attention.

Jackie does not get out and about very much and has not been out of Burnley for several years. She is a very quiet and reserved lady who has recently lost her father and spends a lot of time supporting her elderly mother by attending hospital appointments with her.

This experience would mean so much to Jackie and would be something she would remember and talk about for the rest of her life.

Rosemary said:

When I told Jackie the good news, her face was beaming. She couldn’t believe she had won and talking excitedly about saving up to buy memorabilia during the trip. Although she admitted she felt nervous about visiting somewhere new, she was also incredibly excited and couldn’t wait to share the news with her mum.

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.

Reflecting on the day itself, Marcus added:

We travelled up to Haworth in the morning and spent a few hours at the superb Brontë Parsonage Museum before a stroll along (or more accurately down and up!!) the main street ending with a fabulous Yorkshire lunch in one of the village’s many cafes. Then we went over to Thornton to the birthplace of most of the Brontë children and saw what life was like for them before they moved to the parsonage.

After the busiest week for cruise sales in six years, and a challenging couple of weeks personally, this was what I didn’t realise that I needed.

I loved donating my day to Making Space to support some of their amazing work, seeing how what they do makes a positive difference to people who face many challenges. It made me remember what life is truly all about, happiness, love and support.

Rosemary said Jackie was “quite overcome” by the experience and enjoyed every moment of the trip. 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. It was all so interesting. I bought beautiful hardback copies of Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre to remember the trip, as well as a tote bag and a sweatshirt from one of the lovely shops.

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. We have some lovely photos from the trip which we’ll be turning into an album for Jackie to keep. It was wonderful to see her experience something she had wanted to do for such a long time.

Launching Giving with Purpose

Our new Giving with Purpose fundraising strategy has been designed to give supporters a clearer connection to the impact of their donations through three dedicated funds – the Kind Hearts Fund, Being Ready Fund and Tailor-Making Fund.

Together, the funds help people enjoy meaningful experiences, prepare for future challenges and build greater independence.

Jackie’s special day out has helped launch the Kind Hearts Fund in style, showing how kindness and community support can create meaningful experiences and lasting memories for the people who draw on our services.

Bob Towers, Making Space Fundraising Manager, said:

Jackie’s story shows how kindness can be turned into meaningful experiences. By introducing these three 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 Making Space’s own Independent Travel Consultant, Marcus donates directly to the charity whenever holidays, UK breaks, cruises or travel insurance are booked through him – all at no extra cost to customers. Working with over 450 trusted suppliers and offering ATOL-protected packages, Marcus can help people plan their next adventure while supporting Making Space at the same time. Find out more at notjustholidays.com/makingspace

Through the Kind Hearts Fund, we hope to continue creating memorable experiences, exciting opportunities and special moments for the people we support.