Children’s Hospice Week - how you can support Chestnut Tree House

The week runs from Monday, May 11 to Sunday, May 17 and the Sussex hospice will be joining together with other children’s hospices across the country to raise awareness of hospice care and change people’s perceptions.

“Many people imagine a children’s hospice to be a sad dark place, full of hushed voices and strict ward rounds, a place just where sick children go to die,” a spokesman for Chestnut Tree House said.

“When people come and visit Chestnut Tree House, they discover it is far from those things. Chestnut Tree House is a home from home, full of fun laughter and life.”

To celebrate the week a number of events will be taking place locally.

Bognor Friends of Chestnut Tree House are holding a plant sale on Tuesday, May 12, between 10am and 12pm at St Mary’s Centre, Felpham. Entry is 50p and on offer will be tea, coffee, homemade cakes.

Then on Friday, May 15, Chichester Friends of Chestnut Tree House are hosting a fish and chip supper and quiz at 7pm at St Paul’s Church, Churchside, Chichester.

Tickets are £8.50 in advance from Jill on 01243 530131. Wine and soft drinks available.

The team at Chestnut Tree House doesn’t just look after the sick child, they care for the whole family.

And it’s not just about the practical side of things such as the medical care, it’s about taking care of all of the family’s needs.

“Sometimes the smallest things can make the biggest difference, like the chance to go swimming in our hydrotherapy pool all together as a family, or the first batch of cupcakes a child makes for their mum.

“Of course there are times of great sadness, and our team are there for families throughout those times, and for as long as they need us.”

A quick and easy way of supporting Chestnut Tree House during this year’s Children’s Hospice Week is by holding a Mufti Day and asking everyone to donate £1 to take part.

People can choose a fun theme – for example ‘mellow yellow’ - everyone has to wear something yellow to match the Chestnut Tree House brand colour.

If you are taking part in Children’s Hospice Week send us your pictures to [email protected]