RBKares, a volunteer charity, embarked on a mission to raise funds for Kingston Hospital’s Night to Remember Walk by crocheting letterbox toppers around Kingston.
Founded as Sewing for Kingston in November 2020, the initiative was renamed RBKares (Royal Borough of Kingston Cares) in March 2023. Since then, the organisation has been committed to raising awareness for various causes, with Kingston Hospital’s bereavement services being their most recent project.
“This year, we’ve raised over £4,000,” Kate Kaneyon said, founder and chair of RBKares. “Bereavement services are crucial, and most of us have been touched by some form of loss in our lives.”
Fundraising for Kingston Hospital Charity is facilitated by printed QR codes attached to the letterboxes, linked to the charity’s account. RBKares are also supported through grants, with contributors including the Brother’s Trust, founded by actor Tom Holland and his family.
Beyond their fundraising purpose, the crochet toppers also aim to brighten days and lift spirits.
Kaneyon explained the choice of letterbox toppers, “they’re eye-catching and cheerful, perfect for spreading joy around the community.”
“Spreading kindness in the community is what truly makes a difference,” Kaneyon said. “Small groups working together can create a positive social impact.”
For those who enjoy knitting and crocheting, RBKares welcome volunteers who want to make a difference.
Ruth Inman, a volunteer who has created several of these crocheted toppers in various designs, said: “The whole purpose of these toppers is to bring smiles to people’s faces.”
“These art pieces are for awareness,” Inman added. “The ones with the RBKares label have information about our projects, so people get to know the cause when they stop to look.”
The community’s response has been positive. Amir Siddiqui, a local, said, “These have been around the borough for several years now. It’s often about a topical narrative and fun to make people smile.”
Another resident, Bremble Barr, shared, “Such clever work. We have one in Molesey First Avenue with a green and black spider and green lights. Whoever makes these—well done!”
RBKares has several other community-focused projects, including a wellbeing day for residents of the Cambridge Road estate. At this event, the charity brings together local services, such as the council’s benefit team, retired GPs, and mental health professionals, and provides fuel vouchers for those using food banks.
RBKares is one of several groups creating crochet toppers in Kingston. As for Ruth, she’s already working on her next project to keep the holiday spirit alive—Christmas toppers that will soon be on display at Norbiton Station and St Paul’s Church on the corner of Alexandra Road and Queen’s Road.
