Children, just like adults, need to be given the opportunity to express their feelings. Brothers and sisters of children with complex or life-limiting conditions often carry emotions and responsibilities that can feel difficult to express.

Buddies gives them a safe, welcoming place where they can relax, have fun, build confidence
and connect with other young people
who understand their experiences. Led by our experienced buddies co-ordinator, the group is supported by counsellors, therapists and DBS checked volunteers with backgrounds in education, youth work and family support. Together, they create a safe, welcoming environment where children and young people feel listened to, valued and included.

Buddies is open to siblings aged 6–18
who have a brother or sister supported
by Haven House Children’s Hospice.

Our free programme combines emotional support with exciting activities and new experiences, helping children and young people discuss common fears, joys and concerns and for some, share their feelings around grief.

Some example activities include:

• Creative arts and crafts
•  Forest school and outdoor adventures
• Nature-based activities
• Sports and team games
• Gaming bus experiences
• Theatre trips and live events
• Stadium and behind the-scenes tours
• Seasonal celebrations and social events
• and more!

The activities that we run at Buddies try to build skills, confidence and resilience in children and young people. This follows a resilience model. Some examples of our recent activities include drama and circus skills workshops, fire station and football stadium visits, a sports day and a West End outing for dinner and a show.

Brothers and sisters of a child who uses, or has used our services are eligible to receive sibling support from the Buddies group.

Our brother Cameron first came to Haven House 11 years ago. Buddies has given us so many opportunities to meet and socialise with people who have gone through the same experiences as us, and has helped us cope with many of our problems and fears.

Download our leaflet about how we support brothers and sisters of children at Haven House.

For more information please contact:

Paula Scott
Buddies Event Co-ordinator
Telephone: 020 8506 5523
Email: [email protected]