Gradian Joins Forces at White Hat Ball 2025, Raising Record-Breaking £410,000 for Childline and NSPCC

Jan 29, 2025 | News

Gradian was proud to attend the prestigious White Hat Ball 2025 at The Royal Lancaster Hotel in London.  This event brought together cybersecurity professionals from across the country, with a shared commitment to making a difference. This year’s ball was a resounding success, raising a record-breaking £410,000 in support of Childline and the NSPCC; an increase of over £100,000 compared to 2024.

The annual White Hat Ball has become a cornerstone of the cybersecurity industry’s efforts, uniting leading organisations within the industry in a common goal.  Gradian has been involved in this collective since 2008 demonstrating our dedication to creating a safer and more supportive world for vulnerable children.

The Royal Lancaster Hotel provided a stunning backdrop for the evening, featuring a sumptuous three-course dinner, live entertainment, and heartfelt speeches on the critical work of Childline and the NSPCC. Presented by husband-and-wife duo Kelvin and Liz Fletcher, over 700 attendees were moved by stories of resilience.  Childline Ambassador, Natalie Dormer, introduced this year’s pledge speaker who spoke with honesty and courage about the transformative impact that Childline continues to have on young lives.

The charity auction encouraged guests to bid generously on exclusive experiences and luxury items, all in the name of protecting children.  This raised an incredible amount, with Gradian donating tickets to James Blunt’s upcoming 20th anniversary tour, including a stay in a luxury hotel.

Thanks to the collective efforts of the cyber community, the £410,000 raised will provide essential resources to help Childline continue to offer free and confidential support to children in their hour of need. 

“At Gradian, we believe in the power of collaboration to drive meaningful change,” said Krista Acklam, Gradian’s Head of Customer Experience. “Being part of the White Hat Ball reflects our commitment to using our resources and influence to support important causes like Childline and the NSPCC.” 

She continues, “We’ve been a proud sponsor of the White Hat Ball now for several years and consider it to be very much part of our cultural fabric.”

The White Hat Ball 2025 continues to showcase the cybersecurity community’s extraordinary influence when united by a shared mission: protecting the next generation and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.  Thank you to everyone that took part this year and we look forward to continuing to support this fantastic cause in the years to come.

‘Team Gradian’ and guests at The White Hat Ball 2025