London, June 25, 2025 – In the gilded ballroom of The Dorchester Hotel, under chandeliers that glittered like stars and among guests dressed in their most glamorous finery, the 2025 Butterfly Ball unfolded not just as an evening of prestige and performance—but as a powerful testament to what happens when compassion becomes contagious.

Celebrating the 25th anniversary of Caudwell Children, the UK’s leading charity for disabled and autistic children, the night soared to historic heights with over £1,515,585 raised—a record-breaking show of generosity from philanthropists, celebrities, and longtime supporters alike.

🦋 A Symphony of Style and Purpose

Curated by the inimitable Paloma Faith, the evening struck a delicate balance between high-octane entertainment and deeply human storytelling. As Musical Director, Paloma brought her signature flair, grace, and creative brilliance to the stage, where Sister Sledge featuring Kathy Sledge had guests on their feet, celebrating a night that was as much about joy as it was about justice.

Magic FM’s Neev Spencer and DJ Harriet Rose kept the rhythm flowing through dinner and into the afterparty, ensuring that the music didn’t just fill the room—but lifted it.

🦋 An Evening of Stars and Stories

The guest list was a constellation of cultural icons: Tamzin Outhwaite, Michelle Gayle, Brenda Edwards, Donna Preston, Dominic Skinner, Nicholas Hamilton, Olivia Cox, and Lady Wilemnia Forsyth, to name a few. But the emotional heart of the evening belonged to Rhys Walker, a beneficiary of Caudwell’s Shaping Futures employability programme, whose presence underscored the real reason everyone gathered.

Hosted by the ever-charming Nick Ede, the gala seamlessly wove red carpet glamour with heartfelt calls to action.

🦋 Legacy in the Making

Caudwell Children CEO Claire Marshall marked her debut Butterfly Ball with a message of deep gratitude:

“This evening wasn’t just about raising funds—it was about raising futures. Every child we help, every life we touch, is proof that compassion is the greatest currency of all. To feel that generosity in the room tonight, especially as we celebrate 25 years, was unforgettable.”

Founder John Caudwell—whose vision has impacted more than 100,000 children since 2000—delivered a moving address:

“Tonight reminds us of what we can achieve together. In 25 years, we’ve built a community of believers, dreamers, and doers. And tonight, that community turned hope into action once again.”

🦋 Glamour for Good

The evening’s crescendo came with a luxury live auction led by the effortlessly charismatic Charlie Ross, where everything from once-in-a-lifetime experiences to rare treasures was up for bid—all in the name of changing lives.

🦋 About Caudwell Children

Caudwell Children is a national charity transforming the lives of disabled and autistic children. From therapies and mobility aids to autism assessments and mental health support, their mission is clear: to empower children to thrive. Operating out of the world-class Caudwell International Children’s Centre, the charity continues to redefine inclusive care and opportunity.

🦋 A Celebration of 25 Years—and the Promise of More

The 2025 Butterfly Ball was not simply a fundraiser—it was an affirmation. That even in the most luxurious of settings, the most meaningful gestures are those made in service of others.

And as the final glasses clinked and music lingered in the midnight air, one thing was certain: Caudwell Children’s next 25 years will be just as bold, beautiful, and life-changing—if not more.