Swindon Soroptimists Present Cheque for Money Raised
Our members present the cheque!
Open Day
Swindon Soroptimists would like to thank Hannah, Sharon and Alice for our warm welcome to the Open Day at the Wiltshire Julia’s House children’s hospice and the heart warming tour of the purpose-built facility in Devizes.
The team do an amazing job. Horrifyingly, this crucial service is dependent on public donations for 92% of its funding, even though 90% of the children need nursing care from two nurses.
Purpose-built facilities
Members Lydia, Rozza and Lynnette were in awe of the staff’s dedication and of the amazing thought that has gone into the building and garden to help children and their families. We were delighted to do the official presentation of our £360 donation from our Christmas Raffle, held in aid of Julia’s House.
The Devizes hospice is the second Julia’s House hospice and it was humbling to see the thought and dedication that has gone into the building. The therapy and activity rooms are a riot of colour and innovative specialist toys are provided to meet the needs of children with all types of sensory issues. The special bath with lights and jets was a particular wonder to behold.
Images from the outdoor play area
Currently, the hospice in Wiltshire supports 43 children and six bereaved families. Bereavement support can continue for up to five years if necessary. Julia’s House provides 200 hours of care per year to each child, and children may be supported in the hospice or at home. 57% of children are supported in the hospice and 43% are supported at home.
Other supporters of Julia’s House
Along with the facilities, our members also had the unexpected chance to see the Iron Man helmet donated by Robert Downey Jnr after he donated £1M from a charity auction he held for Julia’s House!
Julia’s House provides practical and emotional support for families caring for a child with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition, providing frequent and regular support in their own homes, in the community or at its hospices. You can find out more about how to support their work here.