Duchess of Edinburgh Opens The Lighthouse

Published on: 6 Dec, 2025
Updated on: 8 Dec, 2025

Packing ‘Bags of Joy’ – care packages that will be distributed to families and individuals this Christmas.

Smiles, celebration and a huge sense of community filled the room on Thursday (December 4) as Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, officially opened The Lighthouse in the Upper High Street, Guildford.

The Lighthouse is, say its creators, “a brand-new hub of hope and support for the town”. The Duchess is its royal patron.

Meeting mothers and babies who attend The Lighthouse Guildford group.

In the heart of Guildford, it aims to provide, “a warm, welcoming space offering practical help and genuine community to anyone who needs it. From warm meals and clothing to creative workshops, wellbeing groups, money advice, and coaching, the centre is designed to bring encouragement, stability and fresh possibilities to people from every walk of life.”

The Duchess is welcomed by The Lighthouse co-founders Erik and Rebecca Jespersen, and Deputy Lieutenant Sir Graham Wrigley.

The Duchess received a joyful welcome from volunteers, local supporters and guests from across the community. During the visit, she toured the newly refurbished centre, met volunteers who make the work possible, and spoke with guests whose lives have been positively impacted by Lighthouse projects. The Duchess then unveiled a commemorative plaque to officially mark the opening.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Her Royal Highness and to celebrate the start of this exciting new chapter for Guildford,” said Rebecca Jespersen, Co-founder of The Lighthouse.

Listening to moving stories from the ‘Men Matter’ group members.

“This centre is all about belonging, dignity and hope — and we are already seeing lives gently transformed through our approach.”

The Lighthouse in Guildford joins a growing family of Lighthouse centres. What began with a single centre in Woking has grown into a network serving thousands across Surrey and Hampshire. With the help of volunteers and community partnerships, the charity says it continues to see lives rebuilt and renewed through its simple mission: “to see lives transformed through kindness, belief, and hope.”