Here’s to 20 years and beyond

Haven House Children’s Hospice kickstarts its 20th birthday celebrations with a dazzling ball.

The event, at The Londoner, Leicester Square, saw 360 guests join in celebrations to mark 20 years since the opening of Haven House.

Kindly supported by Headline Sponsors the Chigwell Group and The Function Band, in partnership with Orbian and Perry’s, a phenomenal £174,625, was raised to support children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions and their families.

Guests were kept partying until the early hours by a show-stopping set by The Function Band and DJ Tony Perry and were urged to dig deep during the raffle, silent and live auction.

Speaking on the night host and TV presenter Mark Wright said:

“What a huge milestone. I am incredibly proud to have been appointed one of the first ambassadors of Haven House over 10 years ago now. Haven House is my local children’s hospice and holds a special place in my heart. It is great to be able to come together tonight to celebrate the amazing work of the hospice and to raise funds for families who need our support."

“It’s rare to walk through Haven House and not see a smile or experience something special. Inevitably, there are sad moments at a hospice, but the team work tirelessly to ensure that children and families enjoy their time and make as many memories as possible. Tonight, is about raising as much money as we can for this wonderful charity so they can be there for seriously ill children and their families, now and long into the future.”

The biggest tribute on the night went to the thousands of children and families that have been cared for over the years. Haven House Guests were moved by hospice nurses Dee and Michele, who shared a story of how the hospice had supported a young boy called Oscar.

Chief Executive of Haven House Siân Wicks said: “Without amazing people in our community, we simply couldn’t be there for the families we care for. On behalf of the entire Haven House team, I would like to say a BIG thank you for your ongoing support.”