Read about our new specialist bereavement service, a prestigious award, sky diving challenge and much more ...


| New specialist bereavement service launched |
| As part of our strategy to reach every family, we have expanded our bereavement service to ensure families of babies or children who have died suddenly, and not just those previous known to the charity, can access the expert and comprehensive bereavement care that a children’s hospice can provide to help cope with the death of a child. Many families are already being supported through this new pathway of care that has been created which includes a rapid-response referral system and specialist trauma therapies. Immediate support can be provided to schools and nurseries, and the team has expanded to make sure they can respond to this demand. Healthcare professionals across the catchment have not hesitated to ensure families are referred, so that during the unimaginable days that follow the tragic death of a child, the family are given the highly specialist, outstanding care that they need. Find out more about the support we provide |

| Prestigious title awarded to Shooting Star Nurse Consultant |
| Shooting Star Children’s Hospices is delighted to celebrate and share that Tracie Lewin-Taylor, Nurse Consultant in our Paediatric Palliative Care team, has been awarded the prestigious title of Queen’s Nurse by community nursing charity The Queen’s Nursing Institute. Expressing her gratitude, Tracie said, “I feel privileged to have been presented with the title of Queen’s Nurse. “I have worked in community nursing roles for the past 15 years, within paediatric specialist palliative care teams. I am passionate about service development and offering exemplar care to children, young people and their families. I am very much looking forward to connecting with fellow Queen’s nurses and being part of the QNI network.” Read More |

| It’s a leap year ! |
| 2024 is the perfect year to jump out of an airplane at 10,000 feet for an unforgettable tandem skydive. We fly from an airfield in Wiltshire and full training is given on the day by experienced instructors. You’ll be able to take in the views of the Wiltshire countryside on the flight and, depending on wind direction, you might be able to see the world heritage site of Stonehenge. Then, strapped to an experienced skydiver, you will freefall 10,000 feet for 30 seconds before a breathtakingly scenic five minute parachute ride back down to earth. So why not jump to it for the height of all challenges and support your local children’s hospice. Sign up today |

| Thank you for supporting our Christmas appeal |
| Thank you to everyone who donated during our Christmas appeal, who in-turn became memory makers, helping families, like Toby’s, make every moment count. Your generous donations this Christmas will gift precious moments for families and help us continue to be there for them, providing specialist care and support. Thank you. |

| First pop-up store a hit with shoppers ! |
| People shopped up a storm at our first pop-up store with Charity Super.Mkt in Westfield London in the lead up to Christmas. It wouldn’t have been possible without the generous contributions from our supporters who provided amazing items, as well as the dedication of our volunteers and retail team who worked together to make it all happen. We also enjoyed the experience with nine other charities who shared the same space. Our charity shops are always needing quality pre-loved items. If you’re having a clear out after Christmas, or have any unwanted presents, think of us ! Retail Wish List |

| We couldn’t do what we do without our fantastic group of volunteers who each play an integral role in the running of Shooting Star Children’s Hospices. We’re always looking for new people to join our team, whether it’s in our retail shops, or lending a helping hand at our hospices or at our events. Consider becoming a volunteer this year and make a meaningful impact. Apply Here |

