The work done by children’s hospices or similar palliative care facilities is both challenging and of great importance. Lifestyle & Mobility are, sadly, well aware of this. That is the inevitable result of our having a significant paediatric aspect to our work. Children’s Hospice Week in the UK asks the question of what life would be like without these places. It also goes on to point out that, right now, there simply isn’t enough money or staff to provide the highest-quality hospice care to all children needing it.

Hospice Care for All Children Who Need it

The mission statement of this initiative, run by the Together for Short Lives charity, is three-pronged, as shown below:

‘Each year in June, we unite the children’s palliative care sector to:

• Increase awareness of the incredible work that children’s hospices do
• Improve understanding about children’s palliative care
• Raise much needed funds for children’s hospices across the UK’

The scale of the challenge is larger than many realise. Approximately 99,000 children in the UK live with a life-limiting condition.

How Can I Get Involved?

Getting involved with this initiative is straightforward. It doesn’t have to be done in Children’s Hospice Week. This is, regrettably, a big issue. As such, it isn’t likely to be resolved quickly. Given that finances continue to prevent this sector from reaching every child who needs it, fundraising is a great way to show support. There’s no right or wrong way to fundraise, so get creative and ambitious!

Taking fundraising efforts to new heights – literally! – Steve, a Together for Young Lives supporter, did a sponsored wing walk in support of this worthy cause!