A Suffolk hospice is now providing specialist emotional support and bereavement counselling to children and young adults, with the addition of a child friendly therapy room thanks to funding from three local organisations.
Funding from Suffolk Community Foundation through Acorn Fund (supported by Pound Gates and Sevatas) has enabled St Elizabeth Hospice to redecorate, furnish and equip the room with age appropriate toys, games, equipment and technology to offer a welcoming, comfortable and safe space for children needing emotional support during a family illness or loss.
We give children the opportunity to think and talk about their emotions, and help them understand that what they are feeling is normal. We’re really grateful for the funding to improve our facilities for children through what may be the most difficult time in their lives.”
The children’s emotional support service is available to children and young adults who have had a parent or family member known to the hospice and works with children aged five to 18. St Elizabeth Hospice offers specialist palliative and end of life care to local people and offers emotional and spiritual care alongside medical and therapeutic support.
The hospice supports around 2000 people and their families a year, and its services are provided free of charge.
Referrals to the service can be made by contacting the team directly through the Emotional Support Enquiry Line on 01473 707999 (Monday – Friday 9am to 4pm)