As part of this year’s Children’s Hospice Week celebrations, staff from across the hospice came together for a heartfelt lunchtime gathering - complete with traditional fish and chips and plenty of cake to go around.

But this was more than just a lunch. It was a chance for our team to pause, reflect, and share what children’s hospice care truly means to them.

Each person brought a symbolic item representing their personal connection to our work. Among them were photographs, medals, flowers from our gardens, pieces of artwork, figurines, music and tea - each one telling a powerful story of love, support, and the deep bonds formed between our staff, children, and families.

One team member brought a passport - symbolising the freedom and respite we help create for families, and the journey we share with them every step of the way. Another brought building blocks, representing the strong and steady foundation we strive to provide. A sunflower was a symbol of hope, warmth, and light. 

At the heart of it all are the children, their families, and the dedicated professionals who walk beside them. 

Haven House CEO Justin Derbyshire said: “Taking a moment to reflect together this Children’s Hospice Week was incredibly powerful. The items shared by our team were deeply personal and spoke volumes about the heart of hospice care. Each one told a story of compassion and unwavering support.

“At the centre of everything we do are the children, their families, and the exceptional people who care for them with such dedication. Children’s Hospice Week is a reminder that hospice care goes far beyond clinical support - it’s about creating moments of comfort, dignity, and a community. It’s about making people feel seen, supported, and never alone.”

This is hospice care.