Light Up a Life 2025 FAQs

Why have you changed the format of Light Up a Life this year?

Light Up a Life has traditionally been an outdoor event and we have been very unlucky with the weather for a few years running now! The new format allows us to hold the event indoors, the benefits being:

Visitors will be warm and comfortable
Better audio so that everyone can hear the service clearly
Seating for everyone attending
Having a ticketed event means we can limit numbers and ensure each event is smaller and more intimate
Choice of dates and times to suit more of our visitors

What times and dates will Light Up a Life be held?

This year we are holding Light Up a Life in six timeslots over three days in December.

Thursday 4^th December – 4pm, 7pm

Friday 5^th December – 4pm, 7pm

Saturday 6^th December – 4pm, 7pm

When you make your dedication and RSVP, you’ll be able to select your first and second timeslot preferences. Our team will contact you to confirm which timeslot you have been given.

How do I book my place?

You can book via the dedication form here or feel free to call our friendly Fundraising Team on 020 8525 3200 between 9am-5pm Monday-Friday.

Do I have to pay for my ticket?

No, Light Up a Life is completely free to attend. Some people choose to make an optional donation towards St Joseph’s Hospice when they book, but there is no obligation to do so.

When do I need to make my dedication by?

We need to receive your RSVP and dedication by Wednesday 26^th November to ensure your dedication appears in the Book of Remembrance.

Dedications added after 26th November will appear in an appendix to the Book of Remembrance, which will be available on this page later in December.

Can I park at the Hospice?

Our car park is small and our spots are reserved for our patients and their visitors as well as essential staff vehicles, so unfortunately we are unable to offer parking for these sessions.

How do I find St Joseph’s Hospice using public transport?

If you plan to arrive via public transport, the closest stations are Cambridge Heath and London Fields (both on the Weaver Line and each approx. 10 mins walk away) and Bethnal Green (on the Central Line, approx. 15 mins walk away).

Several buses also stop nearby, including the 26, 55, D6, 106, 254, 236, 388.

Can I bring friends and family?

You are very welcome to bring friends and family, but please ensure they have their own ticket booked – either through your booking as an additional visitor or through a booking of their own, no need to do both.

Can I just turn up on the night?

No, all our timeslots have a limited capacity so you will need to pre-book your ticket. Please do not turn up without a ticket as you won’t be able to attend.

How will I know which timeslot I have been given?

You will receive confirmation via post (if you posted your dedication back to us) or via email (if you completed your dedication online).

What time should I arrive for my timeslot?

We ask that you don’t arrive more than 30 minutes before your chosen timeslot.

I can no longer attend my booked timeslot – what should I do?

Please contact us as soon as you can either via phone, 020 8525 3200 or email fundraising@stjh.org.uk

Can I bring my dog?

Unfortunately we cannot allow access to dogs, other than service dogs.

Can I still visit the Chapel?

Yes absolutely, you are very welcome to visit the Chapel as part of your visit.

Can I make a dedication to someone even though they weren't cared for at St Joseph's Hospice?

You are welcome to remember anyone special to you who is no longer with us. They don’t need to have been cared for at St Joseph’s Hospice.

I can't attend, can I still make a dedication?

Yes, you can make a dedication in memory of someone special even if you are unable to attend the event. You will be able to see their name in the Book of Remembrance and watch the Light Up a Life service at stjh.org.uk/lightupalife from Sunday 7th December.