Image of the children's area in our Hospice, featuring a storage shelf with wicker boxes, on top of the unit is several resources

 

The Four Lanes Trust funds vital Child Bereavement Resources 

We’ve recently received a £1,961 grant from The Four Lanes Trust towards the Hospice’s Child Bereavement Resources Project.

We care for people in North Hampshire who have life-limiting illnesses, are facing the end of life, or going through a bereavement. This care extends from the patient to their families, which often includes helping children with the loss of a loved one.

The grant has enabled us to develop an important space within the Hospice that is dedicated to children – with resources including memory boxes, worry teddies, numerous creative resources, and a camera for capturing memories.

Susan Iacobucci, Counsellor and Bereavement Lead at the Hospice said, “We are so thankful for receiving this donation from The Four Lanes Trust. This funding has enabled the hospice to offer children and teenagers an amazing range of resources to support them whilst their family members are being cared for. The toys, puzzles and art materials offer a welcome distraction when children need some time out to do something normal at such a difficult time in their lives. The families cared for in the community are also benefitting from the worry monsters, which are helpful for children who are feeling anxious but may find it hard to talk about their worries. The memory boxes are used both before and after a bereavement, giving children and teenagers a lasting connection with their loved one.”

Anne Blackmore, Director of The Four Lanes Trust added, “The Trustees are pleased to support a project which is so valuable to the young visitors of St. Michael’s Hospice. The resources and the staff will make a remarkable difference to their understanding of what their parent or family member is going through, which will reduce the impact on their mental well-being.”

As a charitable organisation receiving less than 16% statutory funding, we need  to raise £14,000 per day to ensure our services can continue. It is thanks to the generosity of the community – including organisations like The Four Lanes Trust that we can provide specialist care and support for people across North Hampshire.

Find out more about how you can support our Hospice here.