We often talk about creating meaningful impact through the projects we deliver. But sometimes, the most important work happens beyond the buildings themselves.

That’s why we were proud to have supported a truly inspiring local initiative, partnering with the Ruth Strauss Foundation and local fundraiser Richard Williman, also known as The Running Cricketer.

A story that stayed with us

When we first heard Richard’s story, it was one that resonated deeply across our team.

What began as a personal journey has grown into a mission: to make sure families facing the death of a parent don’t have to navigate it alone.

Through fundraising challenges, including the recent London Marathon and his next 6 races to ‘Find the Ashes’, Richard is raising awareness of the importance of early conversations, emotional support, and access to the right help at the right time.

Because when families are supported early, it can change everything about how they cope.

Turning support into action

We didn’t just want to support Richard’s challenge, we wanted to help create something lasting. As part of this partnership, Helix CMS is:

Sponsored Richard’s London Marathon effort with £2,600 (£100 per mile)
Making further investments into the Foundation’s work
Funding specialist training for 10 nurses in the Hull region
Building a long term partnership with the Ruth Strauss Foundation
Supporting the expansion of bereavement awareness and training into local education settings

For us, this is about building long-term support within the communities we work in every day.

Why this matters

Through our work across healthcare and education, we see first-hand the role that people play in supporting others through difficult moments.

But when it comes to families facing the death of a parent, many professionals simply haven’t had the training or tools to know how best to help.

That’s where this partnership will make a real difference.

By funding training for nurses working in local hospitals - including Castle Hill - we’re helping to ensure that when families need support, they can access it from someone who understands how to respond with empathy, confidence and care.

A shared mission

Together with the Ruth Strauss Foundation, we’re working towards a clear goal: To ensure that families across East Yorkshire have access to trained professionals who can support them through one of life’s most challenging experiences.

And this is just the beginning.

Over the next 12 months and beyond, we’ll continue to support Richard’s journey, raise awareness, and explore further opportunities to expand this work across both healthcare and education.

Ross Bellingham, our Commercial Director will be running with Richard at the South Cave 10k to show our support and get involved in some running and extra fundraising for the Ruth Strauss Foundation.

More than a partnership

For us, this reflects what social value really looks like. Not just a commitment on paper, or a box we tick, but action that creates a lasting, human impact.

Richard’s determination to turn personal experience into something positive is something we’re incredibly proud to stand behind.

And if this initiative helps even one family feel less alone, it will have been worth every step.

Get involved

Richard’s journey continues. If you’d like to support his ongoing fundraising or learn more about the work of the Ruth Strauss Foundation, we encourage you to get involved and help us make a difference.

Running for Change: Supporting Families When It Matters Most