Thanks to our supporters, The Amy Winehouse Foundation, six of our Buddies (siblings of the children who use the hospice) were invited to spend a day at Amy's Yard studio in Islington.

A few weeks previously they worked with our music therapists, Maeve and Aimee to write the song that they were to record. Maeve said:

Aimee and I were really blown away with the ease at which all six individuals shared their feelings about what life is like having a brother or sister who uses the hospice. Without any prompting, the group decided that the song should be about Haven House. We brainstormed ideas and it was decided that verse one would be based on seeing the world through the eyes of their brother or sister and verse two would be about seeing the world through their eyes.

Maeve and Aimee realised through this project that the emotional needs of children like these are really high and that it is extremely important to have a platform to share their thoughts, feelings and ideas with those in a similar situation. That is why our Buddies support group is such an essential service.

A mum whose son took part in the group said:

Even after 17 years of living this ‘special’ life, there are still moments that take me off guard. Reading the lyrics and looking at the children moved me to tears today. I was truly touched. Thank you so much for what you're doing.

If you see the world through their eyes,
And never being understood,
Like being under a shadow of dark gloom.
Some things make them feel better,
If you try to understand,
You can turn on the light, make their lives feel bright.
You just come to Haven House,
A special place, a place of love
We’re all the same, we feel no strain.
Smiling, laughter, happiness,
It’s all they need to live their lives,
And the dark clouds fade away,
At Haven House.

If you see the world through our eyes,
You would understand the way it feels,
The patience it takes to live every day.
We know what makes them feel better
To help them through their lives,
Music, sounds, colours help them feel bright.
You just come to Haven House,
A special place, a place of love
We’re all the same, we feel no strain.
Smiling, laughter, happiness,
It’s all they need to live their lives,
And the dark clouds fade away,
At Haven House.