Continued support for Lennox Chidren’s Cancer Fund from Essex Masons

Essex Freemasons renew their support in supplying essential item ‘Back Packs’ for patients and carers in a hospital ward or a new environment

In 2021 Essex Freemasons and London Freemasons supported Lennox Children’s Cancer Fund to supply ‘Back Packs’ with essential items for those patients and carers finding themselves in a hospital ward or a new environment.

In 2025 Essex Freemasons have renewed that support with a donation of £10,000, enough to supply over 80 ‘Back Packs’. Each pack includes items such as toiletries, a neck pillow, blanket, travel cup, thermal coffee mug, soft toy, games, colouring book and pencils, notebook, ear buds, phone charger, socks among other essentials.

Lindsey Bidwell, Relations and Partnerships Manager said, “The continued support from Essex Freemasons, with the Back Packs in particular, has enabled us to continue to support children and families when they go into hospital with those items that make their stay warm and comfortable. The support from other Lodges as well has helped us to continue our work with these children.”

Chris Hicks, Provincial Grand Charity Steward said, “Lennox Children’s Cancer Fund shows how an Essex Charity can develop and offer their services and support around the UK. We are proud to support them not only at a Provincial level but also at a Lodge level, they are close to our hearts.”

Lennox Children’s Cancer Fund was founded in 1992 with a mission to relieve pain and suffering of children diagnosed with cancer. Over the years this mission has been extended to support not only the children but also their entire families, from the moment of diagnosis through treatment and beyond. It is recognised that families may struggle to adjust to their ‘new normal’ after treatment. The Charity supports in bridging the gap that is left after the safety net of treatment is removed through the four pillars of support:

Financial – Emotional – Practical – Free respite breaks

At the heart of the mission is a dedicated group of individuals who are passionate about making a difference. The family support team are always on hand to provide a listening ear or discuss the wide range of services that are available and the fund-raising team are always looking for support from individuals, groups and companies. All members of the teams are focused on the mission of supporting children and their families. 

To can read more about the charity on their website https://www.lennoxccf.org.uk

Photos:

Top: L-R Steve Bruyel - Deputy Provincial Grand Charity Steward, Lindsey Bidwell, Chris Hicks, Vicky Nash at Lennox headquarters with the ‘Back Packs’

Below: Left: 'Back Pack' with Charity Logo and wording ‘We’ve Got Your Back’ Right: Play specialist Oncology CNS Nurse Helen Nye (centre) from Lennox with the ‘Back Packs’ to be used at Colchester Hospital