LIGHT UP DECEMBER 2025
This December, join the UK Sepsis Trust to Light Up December – a way to remember, reflect, and raise vital awareness of sepsis.
From 1st–24th December, we’re inviting you to share your sepsis story, reflect, and light a candle each day in support of those who have been affected by condition.
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that affects 245,000 people every year in the UK, claiming around 48,000 lives. Together, we can help ensure more people recognise the signs, access the support they need, and improve sepsis outcomes.
When you take part in Light Up December, you’ll be joining a compassionate community of survivors, bereaved families, and supporters – all helping to spread light and hope this Christmas.
HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED?
STEP 1: Click here to register for Light Up December and create your donations page via Facebook or JustGiving.
STEP 2: Join our dedicated Facebook group – a supportive space to share your story, photos, and reflections throughout the campaign.
STEP 3: Once you’ve raised or donated £10, we’ll send you your Light Up December pack, which includes:
- A UKST star decoration to write a message on and hang on your tree.
- A paper advent candle to mark each day from 1st–24th December.
- A message from our CEO, Sarah Hamilton-Fairley.
Thank you for your support!
By supporting us this Christmas, you’ll be helping someone like Lauren
In 2023, Lauren spent the Christmas holidays in an induced coma and ICU. Away from her little boy on Christmas Day, she had been rushed into hospital with Group A streptococcus, double pneumonia, and sepsis.
Thankfully, Lauren made a gradual recovery, but her return home wasn’t straightforward. For many, like Lauren, life post-sepsis is extremely challenging – at times, she was too weak to even hold a book. Seeking reassurance and connection from others who felt the same, Lauren reached out to the UK Sepsis Trust’s Support team, who were able to offer her support, comfort, and advice when she needed it most.
This Christmas, you can help us provide vital support to people like Lauren. Just £28 covers one hour with one of our Support Nurses – that’s an hour that can have a lifechanging impact.
FAQs
What is Light Up December?
A virtual fundraising and awareness campaign (1st–24th December). Participants light a candle each day, share their stories, and raise funds to support families affected by sepsis.
How do I get started?
What happens after I raise £10?
Once you’ve raised or donated £10, you’ll receive your Light Up December pack containing your UKST star decoration and paper advent candle.
What should I do with the star decoration?
Write a message in memory or celebration, then hang it on your Christmas tree (or somewhere special at home). You can also share on social media (including the Facebook group) using #LightUpDecember – and don’t forget to tag us @uksepsistrust.
What’s the paper advent candle for?
From 1st–24th December, light a candle each day and colour in your advent candle as a daily moment of reflection.
What if I haven’t received my pack yet?
Don’t worry – once you’ve raised or donated £10, your pack will be posted as soon as possible. Delivery usually takes between 5–8 working days – if it’s been longer than this, please contact virtualevents@sepsistrust.org.
Can I still join if I don’t want to fundraise publicly?
Of course! You can choose to make a personal donation instead of setting up a page. Every contribution helps us continue our life-saving work.
What if people share sensitive stories in the Facebook group?
Light Up December may be emotional for many – our team and volunteers will help ensure the group remains a safe, supportive space. Please contact our Support Team if you feel you need further support.
How do I contact the UK Sepsis Trust?
If you have any questions, please email our fundraising team at virtualevents@sepsistrust.org – we’d love to hear from you!