The Dream Factory started January with an appeal for funds to keep the charity alive past 2025, as demand for dreams continues to grow.  Despite the challenges, this remarkable Essex-based charity has continued to bring smiles, hope and unforgettable memories by granting precious dreams for children and young people between the ages of three to 25 years, with life-threatening conditions, severe disabilities and those requiring end-of-life dreams.

The year began with a spectacular Boxing Dinner in January and World Champion boxers, including two of The Dream Factory’s Patrons Colin McMillan BEM and Michael Watson MBE, joined supporters for an unforgettable  evening of inspiration and generosity.

In June, The Dream Factory held its first ever Three Stadium Walk, starting at West Ham’s London Stadium, continuing to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium at White Hart Lane, and finishing at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium – an incredible challenge filled with spirit, teamwork and community pride.  One of The Dream Factory’s Patrons, Olympic World and Commonwealth Champion Christine Ohuruogu MBE,  led the warmup to the event.

September brought the colour and excitement of a Bollywood Dinner, kindly sponsored by RGB Electrical Stores, followed by a fun and fabulous Quiz Night in Chingford, both filled with laughter and fundraising success.

The charity is proud to be the official partner for Media 10 in Loughton, and this Christmas will also be the charity partner for the Ideal Home Show Christmas at Olympia from 26th-30th November.  The Dream Factory will also be at the Chingford Christmas Market on Saturday 20th December 2025.  In addition, UKLA have chosen The Dream Factory as their Charity of the Year, and Haslets Accountants in Loughton continue to support the charity through sponsorships and fundraising initiatives.

This year alone, 32 dreams have been granted, bringing an incredible 764 dreams since The Dream Factory began.  Some of the 2025 dreams were a toy shopping spree for Olivia, and trips to Disneyland Paris for Connie and little Freddie.

Avril Mills BEM, Honorary Freeman of The Borough of Redbridge, Founder and Trustee of The Dream Factory Children’s Charity says: ‘ Every dream makes a difference ! The Dream Factory is dedicated to granting as many dreams as possible.  As we look ahead to 2026, we aim to continue fulfilling these dreams, but we need increased support and funding.  With your help we can make even more dreams come true’.