Last Friday, I visited Shooting Stars Children’s Hospice in Hampton, an inspirational organisation that provides palliative and respite care to children and their families across Surrey and London, including families here in Elmbridge.
I was briefed by Nigel Harding, Shooting Stars’ CEO, on some of the challenges they face as a charity, and on their campaign for greater recognition for the services they provide within the NHS. Karen Sugaman, Shooting Stars’ Executive Vice-President, showed me around the amazing facilities in Hampton. There is a wide range of activities for children, from a hydrotherapy pool to music groups and a sensory room. There are also valuable facilities for families.
The tenderness, support and care provided by Shooting Stars to children and their families is invaluable – and helps to support them through situations which would otherwise be unbearable for those affected.