Haven House celebrates Children's Hospice Week 2026

Children, families, staff, volunteers and supporters came together at Haven House to celebrate Children's Hospice Week 2026, reflecting on the precious moments that make our hospice such a special place.

This year's national theme, 'A journey to precious memories,' celebrated the role children's hospices play in helping families make the most of every moment together while navigating the challenges of serious illness.

Throughout the week, families and colleagues shared some of their most treasured Haven House memories, highlighting the care, compassion and support that have helped shape their journeys.

Maria, whose son Joshua is supported by Haven House, said:

“After Joshua's cardiac arrest and resulting brain injury, the transition from hospital to home felt overwhelming and uncertain for our family. Haven House made that journey so much easier than we ever thought possible. From the very beginning, the team stood by our side, offering guidance, reassurance and practical support whenever we needed it. Knowing we were not alone made all the difference.”

To mark the week, colleagues enjoyed a special celebration lunch, while the Haven House Choir gave its first public performance alongside pupils from Churchfields Primary School. Children, families and staff also came together to create a giant collaborative canvas featuring self-portraits, celebrating the many people who make up the Haven House community.

Our retail teams also embraced the occasion by transforming shop windows across the local area, helping raise awareness of children's hospice care and encouraging more people to discover the support available to seriously ill children and their families.

Aisling Kilbane, Director of Clinical Services at Haven House, said:

"Every family we support has their own unique journey and their own precious memories. For some, it's a special family event or sibling activity. For others, it's the comfort of knowing they are not facing difficult times alone. "Children's hospice care is about helping families make the most of every moment. It is about creating opportunities for joy, connection and hope, while providing expert care and support whenever families need us."

Children's Hospice Week also provided an opportunity to challenge common misconceptions about children's hospices. Haven House supports more than 450 children and families across North East London, West Essex and East Hertfordshire through specialist nursing care, respite and day services, hospice at home, therapies, family support, sibling activities and end-of-life care.