The Cash for Kids Northern Ireland team proudly attended a prestigious garden party at Hillsborough Castle on Wednesday, 10th September 2025, after a kind invitation from the Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.

The event gathered community leaders, charity representatives, and distinguished guests to celebrate service and dedication across Northern Ireland. It also offered a chance to strengthen partnerships and share inspiring stories of local impact.

Representing Cash for Kids were Emma Brown, Partnerships and Brand Director; Clare McGimpsey, Regional Charity Manager for Northern Ireland; and Lexi McKechnie, Fundraising Executive for Northern Ireland. Their attendance showed our strong commitment to supporting children and families throughout the country.

A right Royal appearance by The Princess Royal

The garden party was made even more memorable with the arrival of Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Princess Anne. During the event, Princess Anne met Norman Irwin, a 106-year-old veteran widely regarded as Northern Ireland’s oldest man.

Later, Her Royal Highness planted a tree in the Hillsborough Castle grounds. This symbolic act highlighted continuing efforts to honour those who served the nation and to create a lasting legacy of remembrance.

For more details on Princess Anne’s visit and the day’s historic moments, you can read the BBC’s full report.

Helping the children who need it most

Cash for Kids Northern Ireland supports children and young people across the country who live in poverty, face abuse or neglect, are ill, have additional needs, or simply need a helping hand. In 2024, we raised over £1.8 million and made a difference to 40,232 young lives. Every pound raised in Northern Ireland stays within the region, ensuring local donations create local impact.

Find out more about our current activities in Northern Ireland at Cool FM, Downtown Radio and Downtown Country, and explore our current grant rounds.