Guest Blog | Ailsa’s Aim: Compassion in Action

We spoke with Sara Whatley, Founder and CEO of Ailsa’s Aim, to learn more about the charity’s work in England and Wales, supporting people through cancer treatment and neonatal care. Sara shares how the charity began, who they help, and why simple, practical support can often have the biggest impact.

“At Ailsa’s Aim, we believe that small acts of care can make a big difference during life’s most difficult moments. Based in Olney, Milton Keynes, with our head office at the heart of the community, our charity exists to bring comfort, dignity, and practical help to those who need it most.

The charity was founded from personal experience. Having faced times where immediate, practical support would have lifted a huge weight, I knew there was a need to provide something simple yet meaningful to families going through cancer treatment or neonatal care. Out of that vision, Ailsa’s Aim was born.

What We Do

Our core service is providing essential care packs. These are filled with thoughtfully chosen items that offer dignity and comfort when life is turned upside down by hospital stays, treatment, or the shock of neonatal care. We also provide financial support in special cases, for example helping a young family in Birmingham during a time of urgent need. Alongside this, we run awareness campaigns, such as distributing 10,000 leaflets highlighting the symptoms of ovarian cancer, helping people recognise signs earlier.

We keep things simple and approachable. Families don’t need to jump through hoops—we respond quickly, with kindness, and without judgment.

Who We Help

Our support focuses on two groups:

• People undergoing cancer treatment.
• Parents and carers with babies in neonatal care.

Both groups are thrust into circumstances they never expected. Whether it’s providing a Radar key for £3, a worry monster for a child at £6, or a full care bag for £7.50, every item we deliver lightens someone’s load.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Our premises are accessible for people with mobility issues, and we design our services to be adaptable. Where needs extend beyond what we can directly provide, we link people with trusted partners so nobody feels left behind.

The Rewarding Part

For me, the most rewarding thing about this work is the moment of relief we hear from someone when they realise they are not alone. It’s often not about the size of the gift, but the timing. A small, simple bag can mean the world when it arrives just as someone is wondering how they’ll cope.

Taking the First Step

If you’re nervous about reaching out, please know we’re a warm, approachable team. There’s no judgement, no red tape—we’ll meet you where you are. That first conversation could lift a huge burden you didn’t even realise you were carrying.

Stories from Families

We regularly receive messages from families telling us how much our support meant. One neonatal parent told us our pack was the first time they felt someone truly understood their needs. Another cancer patient described their care bag as “a reminder that kindness still exists.” These words drive us forward every day.

Our Team

Although we’re small, our team is mighty. Alongside me as CEO, Bethany leads on operations. We are guided by our dedicated trustees—Darren and Selina Walster, and Charlotte Jeffs—who bring expertise and accountability. Then there are our incredible volunteers, the lifeblood of our Cost of Living Community Shop in Olney, without whom none of this would be possible.

Our Values in Three Words

If I had to capture Ailsa’s Aim in three words, they would be: caring, practical, hopeful. Everything we do is grounded in compassion, dignity, and community.

How We’re Funded

As a registered charity, we rely on a blend of income streams to survive. Our Cost of Living Shop in Olney not only provides affordable essentials to the local community but also generates around £1,500 a month to support our services. We also fundraise through events like our Santa Sleigh and Dragonboat Race, apply for grants, and partner with local businesses.

For example, Margaret James Estate Agents kindly donate £50 per house sale, and other local businesses support us through fundraising events and sponsorship. It’s these partnerships that keep our doors open.

How You Can Help

There are so many ways to get involved if you are able to:

• Make a one-off or monthly donation.
• Join our £1-a-week club (with monthly cash prize draws).
• Volunteer in the shop or at events.
• Become a business sponsor and showcase your support locally.

Every contribution—big or small—directly helps us provide packs, resources, and comfort to families in crisis.

At Ailsa’s Aim, our goal is simple: to ensure no one faces cancer treatment or neonatal care without practical help and the knowledge that someone is walking alongside them. Together, with our community’s support, we’re making that aim a reality every single day.”

You can read more about Ailsa’s Aim on their website at www.ailsasaim.co.uk/our-aims. You can call them on 07919 536833. To find further cancer support in your area, please search on Cancer Care Map’s homepage using your postcode.