A true community effort lights up Grace’s Place for Christmas

So you can imagine how magical it was when the Christmas lights were switched on at Grace’s Place on 1^st December. Especially as lots of people watching had dedicated a light in memory of a loved one. And because many in the audience were those people, groups and local businesses whose support has been so important to us over the last 18 months. And because many more were new friends who’d come along to the hospice for the first time that day.

Making it the perfect way to mark just how far we’ve come. Our care team are already supporting families in their own homes across Bury, Rochdale and Oldham, helping them feel less on their own – something that’s been needed for so long. We’ve also been awarded a grant from BBC Children in Need to fund a perinatal nurse to support babies with life-shortening conditions and their brothers and sisters. And the hospice itself has been transformed – with a sensory room, comfortable bedrooms for children and their families and a colourful hub full of toys.

A heartfelt thanks to everyone who came along to share in our Christmas celebrations and to enjoy the colourful stalls full of Christmas fayre and handmade gifts, the tombola, Santa in his grotto, and of course, the lights! And to all our amazing volunteers and supporters who helped make the event such a success.

It really felt like the local community had gathered around to give us a great big Christmassy hug! Not only that but the event raised a brilliant £6,000! Fantastic.