Marking six months of our charity partnership with Malhotra Group
One of the North East’s leading care and leisure groups has had a fantastic six months of fundraising for
Read MoreOur Children and Young Adults Memory Garden begins to bloom
Something special is taking shape for our Children and Young Adults Service – a Memory Garden where families can pause, reflect, and remember their loved ones.
The idea came from two familiar faces in our Children and Young Adults Service – Diane Anderson and Sarah Turner. Both have been part of the team for many years, so they know just how much it means for families to be able to come back to the Hospice.
They imagined a space where families could spend time surrounded by happy memories – and where they could catch up with the carers who once looked after their child or young adult.
Their love for the families we care for has driven this from the start, and they’ve gone the extra mile – often in their own time – to make the garden a reality.
Holly Smith, Matron of our Children and Young Adults Service, said:
“I can already see the difference this garden will make for the families we care for. It will be a place where they can feel at ease, take a breath, and know they’re not alone. I think it will hold so many quiet, special moments – the kind that stay with you.”
As Diane and Sarah chatted about their idea and started making plans, the news began to spread. Phill Reid, Diane’s family member, who runs Cobra Boxing & Fitness Club, had often heard her speak with such warmth about the children, young adults, and families she helps to care for. Wanting to help, Phill teamed up with our Fundraising team to put on a lively boxing event in aid of the Hospice.
Our Children and Young Adults staff also ran raffles, with fantastic prizes donated by both the boxing club and our own team. Together, the event and raffles raised an amazing £3,800 to get the garden started.
Since then, Fundraising volunteers, colleagues, and friends from Beaverbrooks, Cowell’s Garden Centre, and garden furniture company, Tom Chambers, have all lent a hand – donating time, skills, and even furniture to make the space welcoming.
The Memory Garden isn’t finished just yet, but thanks to Diane, Sarah, and everyone who’s supported the project, we’re creating a place full of comfort, memories, and love.