Children’s Hospice Week is a UK-wide campaign dedicated to raising awareness and funds for children’s hospices and the seriously ill children and families they support. Last week, Peter Andre visited Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice near Arundel, West Sussex, to spend time with some of the children and young people cared for by the charity.
Peter became a Patron of Chestnut Tree House and Together for Short Lives, the UK charity for seriously ill children, earlier this year. Describing himself as a ‘proud Patron’ of both Chestnut Tree House and Together for Short Lives, Peter threw himself into a morning of fun and games with the children, including a game of giant outdoor Connect 4 with four-year-old Loui.
Chestnut Tree House – Peter and Loui playing Connect4Peter Andre said:
“The day was so special. I love visiting and spending time with the children, and it was the perfect way for me to spend the first day of Children’s Hospice Week. I am honoured to be a Patron of both Chestnut Tree House and Together for Short Lives – the work they do is incredible.”
From giant outdoor Connect 4 and Kerplunk to Monopoly and painting, Peter spent time playing games with the children, but also speaking to parents and members of the hospice care team.
Chestnut Tree House – Peter Andre and Ben playing MonopolyCaroline McCullough, Clinical Nurse Manager at Chestnut Tree House said:
“We always love welcoming Peter to the hospice – he’s so great with the children and they all enjoy spending time with him. From the first time he visited, he instantly understood what we’re all about. He shows genuine interest in the work we do and the families we care for, and always makes sure he spends time with everyone.
“We are incredibly grateful for Peter’s support as our Patron and hope that it helps more people to see what wonderful and vital places children’s hospices like Chestnut Tree House are. Peter is passionate about making a difference, and visits like this help create special memories for our children and families – something you can’t put a price on.”
Chestnut Tree House – Peter Andre and LouiKatrina Kelly, Communications Officer at Together for Short Lives added:
“It was an absolute pleasure to meet some inspiring families supported by Chestnut Tree House, with Peter Andre, Patron of Together for Short Lives and Chestnut Tree House. He was an instant hit with the families, getting stuck in with games and taking the time to build important bonds with parents and children alike and learning more about their stories. We are very lucky to have a patron who understands the vital role children’s hospice services play in helping seriously ill children and their families make precious moments together – and even better – helping to create some precious moments of his own this Children’s Hospice Week.”
Chestnut Tree House provides care and support to around 300 children with life-shortening conditions and their families across Sussex and South East Hampshire, both at the hospice and in families’ own homes. The cost of providing this service is over £3.9 million per year, yet the hospice receives less than 6% central government funding so relies on the generosity and support of the community to continue providing vital care to local children and families.