What do you think of when you think of a children’s hospice?
There is a common misconception that children’s hospices are only about end-of-life care.
While providing outstanding end-of-life care is a fundamental part of their role, Francis House Children’s Hospice supports babies, children, young people and their families in Greater Manchester throughout their journey, helping them to live life as fully as possible.
Rachael Taylor, Chief Executive of Francis House, says, “There are many different ways we help families caring for a child with a life-shortening or life-threatening illness. For some families, this vital care and support lasts for years, while for others it may be months, weeks or days.”
“Our services are tailored to meet a wide variety of needs, from practical support and specialist healthcare to emotional wellbeing and family activities. Hundreds of local families come to us for respite from the stresses and strains of difficult times – to talk, play, laugh, cry, and find the time and space they need.”
Francis House staff work at the hospice in Didsbury and visit families in their homes, hospitals or other community settings. They offer short breaks and respite; day, home and community care; therapies and support groups; emotional support; end-of-life care and bereavement support.
Rachael explains, “Family is at the heart of everything we do. It’s not just a seriously ill child who is affected by a life-shortening illness, but their brothers and sisters, parents and carers too.”
“The people we care for can come and go, spend time on their own or get together, chat and play, do fun things, pop out to the cinema or shops – and simply feel free to be themselves.”
Francis House is an independent charity, funded mainly by charitable donations. (Open 365 days a year, it relies on highly skilled professional staff, volunteers and NHS partnerships to provide its services.) Open 365 days a year, it relies on highly skilled professional staff and volunteers to provide its services. It costs £5.8 million a year to run Francis House – equivalent to £15,890 per day – and all services are provided completely free of charge.
- Open Day – Saturday 7 November, 10am–4pm | Didsbury
Explore Francis House, discover its facilities and see the difference your support makes to local families. - Starlight Gala Ball – Saturday 14 November, 7pm till late | Mottram Hall
An evening of food, drinks, live entertainment, dancing and a live auction in support of Francis House. Tickets £95pp. - Christmas Story Service – Friday 4 December, 7.30pm | St Elisabeth’s Church, Reddish
A candlelit evening of carols, festive music, choir, soloists and brass band.
