London, October 9, 2025 – The October Club raised £750,000 for Spark Inside at its annual gala dinner held last night at The Savoy, bringing transformative coaching programmes to hundreds more young people in prison.
Over 350 guests celebrated the culmination of our fundraising efforts in support of Spark Inside, a charity that gives young people in the criminal justice system a real route to change and a crime-free future.
The funds raised will enable Spark Inside to expand its life-changing work from London to three prisons in the Midlands, reaching young people who need it most.
A evening of impact and inspiration
The evening featured an address from Lord Timpson (OBE), Minister of State for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending, who spoke with passion about the need to realise the potential in young people and the importance of second chances.
Guests bid very enthusiastically in live and silent auctions that featured exceptional lots donated by our supporters, including: luxury stays in Florence and Ibiza, a bike ride with Ironman and former armed robber John McAvoy and fine jewellery by Boodles, not to mention a Big Bosh Day Out with Johnny “the Romford Bull” Fisher and social media star Big John (BOSH).
Many guests also pledged support for Spark Inside’s three-year expansion plans.
Proven impact, expanding reach
Founded in 2012, Spark Inside delivers tailored support programmes including the award-winning “Hero’s Journey” – a structured life coaching intervention for 15-25 year-olds in prison that builds motivation to change. The programme has a proven track record: the vast majority of participants make tangible progress towards education or employment upon release, with significant improvements in wellbeing and decision-making.
Vicki Cardwell, Chief Executive of Spark Inside, said: “We are hugely grateful to The October Club and everyone who supported us at this year’s event. The incredible funds raised will enable Spark Inside to expand and reach even more young people in prison with our transformative coaching programmes. Every year, thousands of young people enter the criminal justice system – many full of potential, but without the tools or belief to change their future. The October Club’s amazing support will help us empower them to find purpose, build resilience, and create positive lives beyond prison.”
Samantha Huggins, Chair of The October Club, said: “Tonight has been nothing short of remarkable. On behalf of the committee, I’m thrilled and deeply grateful for the extraordinary support from our October Club family. Together, we’re not just raising funds—we’re opening doors to new futures for young people across the Midlands.”
For enquiries, contact:
The October Club: enquiries@theoctoberclub.co.uk
Spark Inside: louise@sparkinside.org