Pure Insight Shines at Royal Carol Service

Sarah Sturmey and her son

Sarah Sturmey, our founder and CEO, had the incredible honour of attending the Princess of Wales’ annual Carol Service at Westminster Abbey on Friday, December 6th. The prestigious event, inspired by the theme "How much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives," brought together 1,600 guests from across the UK to celebrate unity, compassion, and hope during life’s challenges.

Representing Pure Insight’s team and volunteers, Sarah was invited to the Together at Christmas Carol Service, hosted by Princess Kate and Prince William. Now in its fourth year, this renowned event celebrates stories of love, kindness, and community, recognizing the extraordinary efforts of charities like Pure Insight, which uplift vulnerable individuals during difficult times.

A poignant illustration by Charlie Mackesy featured on the cover of the order of service, depicting a group of individuals with arms around one another walking toward an abbey with the caption: "How did I help?” "You were by my side, which was everything.” This illustration struck a deep chord with Sarah, as it perfectly encapsulates the charity's vision: to provide a family-like support network for those who have no one to turn to. Through its mentoring programs, Pure Insight ensures that no young person feels alone on their journey to independence.

Pure Insight is dedicated to supporting young people transitioning out of the care system—many of whom face adulthood alone, without the safety net of a family or support network. These young people often carry the weight of childhood trauma, making the journey even more challenging.

“At Pure Insight, we understand the importance of providing support to young people leaving care,” Sarah said. “Just like any other young person, they need a guiding hand—someone who will champion them through both the challenges and successes they encounter. This, to me, is the ultimate act of kindness.

"We are fortunate to have dedicated groups of local volunteers who generously commit a few hours each week to help young care leavers thrive. They have a passion for helping young people, particularly those who have faced the toughest circumstances.”

Sarah, who has dedicated over 15 years to supporting care experienced young people, spoke about the event’s significance:

“It was an incredibly special event, a a moment to pause and acknowledge those who have supported us during challenging times. I feel truly fortunate to lead a team that has the opportunity to extend a helping hand to young people facing extreme adversity.”

She added:

“Being recognised by the Prince and Princess of Wales is not just a personal honour but a testament to the dedication of the entire Pure Insight team and volunteers who continuously y support Care-Experienced young people. It brings national attention to the work we do in the North-West and opens the door to greater awareness and support for our mission.”

The Impact of Pure Insight

For Care-Experienced young people, the journey into adulthood is often fraught with challenges. Pure Insight steps in to provide mentorship, life skills, and emotional support for those aged 16 to 28, helping them navigate this critical stage with confidence and resilience. With the royal recognition bringing the charity’s work into the spotlight, Sarah hopes it will inspire more people to get involved.

Helena Smith, Volunteering and Community Manager for Pure Insight, highlighted the crucial role of the charity’s mentors:

“Our mentors are trained and carefully matched to our young people, helping them in so many ways – supporting mental health, finding work and training, learning how to be the best parent to their little ones, and navigating damaging relationships. Pure Insight can reach so much further by working with our community mentors who are there when the young people need them, offering care and focus without judgment.”

The Volunteer Perspective

Pure Insight’s success lies in the unwavering dedication of its mentors. Helena Smith, who is also a volunteer, shared her personal experience:

“It’s a huge privilege to know and support my mentees - to see them overcome the obstacles life has put in their way, to see them learn about positive relationships, and to move from difficulty to a place where they’re real assets to society. I’m proud to have been the person they trusted, being there through difficult times and celebrating their victories. Pure Insight understands Care Leavers’ needs like no one else.”

Mentor Steve Price added:

“Reflecting on how far my mentees have come since I’ve known them is incredibly rewarding. Discovering their challenges has been a real eye-opener for me. We get involved in so many aspects of support, and whatever the situation, we don’t judge. They need calm and guidance, and that’s what I aim to provide. It’s such a privilege when they reach out, and they often give back too, supporting us and others in return.”

Support Pure Insight This Christmas

Pure Insight is looking for more volunteer mentors to support young people in 2025 across Stockport, Cheshire East, Halton, Warrington, and Salford in 2025. Comprehensive training, ongoing support, and a culture of kindness prevails for both volunteers and the young people in our Pure Insight Family.

This festive season, reach out and show you care by registering interest in training to be a volunteer in 2025.

Contact Helena.Smith@pure-insight.org.uk