Children’s hospices from across London and Essex have taken part in an art exhibition at Haven House Children’s Hospice.

Artwork created by the siblings of children who use Haven House, Richard House Children’s Hospice, Little Havens Hospice, Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice, Barnet and Enfield NHS Trust, Rainbow Trust, Evelina Children’s Hospital and Lifeforce went on display on Sunday 17 July at Haven House’s Holistic Care Centre in Woodford Green.

The event was organised in collaboration with the London Specialist Sibling Network which is a network of sibling support workers from various organisations.

Haven House provides vital support to the siblings of children who use the hospice with its ‘Buddies’ service. It allows siblings to meet other brothers and sisters of children with life-limiting conditions and provides support to those who have experienced bereavement.

Buddies provides a space where siblings are able to discuss common fears, joys and concerns and for some, share their feelings around grief. The service runs from various locations, with its base in a rainbow-coloured Buddies hut situated in the grounds of Haven House.

During 2015/16, Haven House supported 42 children who attended Buddies activities.

Sophie Nathan, Haven House Sibling Service Coordinator, said: “It was great to see so many families take part in our art exhibition on Sunday. Creating artwork is not only a fun and enjoyable activity, but it has a therapeutic benefit for siblings experiencing bereavement helping them to communicate their emotions and feelings.

“The activities that we run at Buddies, including performance workshops and days out at local attractions, help our siblings to build skills, confidence and resilience.

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

To find out more about our siblings support service please click this link.