Residents in Southampton have the opportunity to remember pets that have recently passed thanks to the new charity campaign.

SOUTHAMPTON residents wishing to remember pets who have passed away can do so thanks to a charity’s Tree of Light fundraising and awareness campaign (November 2026).

Communicare, which is dedicated to eradicating loneliness in the city, is offering people the chance to sponsor festive lights commemorating special causes and loved ones including pets this Christmas.

Communicare’s Manager, Annie Clewlow, explains: “By sponsoring the lights on our trees, people can remember a lost loved-one, or they can mark something special. Each light also helps support our charity, which befriends people in communities city-wide. Our mission is to eradicate loneliness and isolation, which are becoming more and more of a problem across all generations.

“Every year so far, we’ve just highlighted remembering people and people-related causes, but this year we’d like to extend this to animals and pets, as we appreciate how important they are in people’s lives and the significant contribution they make to someone’s wellbeing. We’re hoping lots of people sponsor lights on our trees to help fundraise for us and the work we do. We can also provide a remembrance star for them to hang on their own Christmas tree at home.”

Communicare volunteer, Debbie Hendry, who is also Service Manager at Unpaid Carers Support Southampton, is sponsoring a light this year for her and her husband Chris’ dog Gus, who passed away this summer.
She says: “Losing our beloved Gus in July this year, left a hole in our hearts that words can hardly describe. He was so much more than a dog – he was family, a source of unconditional love, comfort and happiness. The memories we shared will stay with us forever, and although we wish we had more time together, we will always be grateful for the love and light he brought into our life. Our beautiful Gus. You will never be forgotten.