Gareth’s blog: Why our snowflake care matters

Gareth’s blog: Why our snowflake care matters 

For ten years, I have had the privilege of working at Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice. Everything we do is important, but throughout that time, there has been one part of our work that has remained central to who we are and why we exist: supporting families when their child dies. 

We call this snowflake care, centred around the snowflake suite, a private apartment at Russell House where families can make precious memories and say their last goodbyes. Snowflake care also includes practical help and emotional support over the first few days and weeks after a child has died.  

When a family stays in our snowflake suite with their child, something happens across Russell House. Priorities shift. Plans change. People even move around the building differently, so as not to disturb the family whose peace and comfort is our main concern.  

Every interaction, every conversation and every decision is guided by one simple principle: how can we help this family feel safe, supported and cared for? 

Our teams are passionate, dedicated and deeply committed to making sure families receive the specialist support they need and deserve. And none of us underestimate the difference that care, compassion and continuity can make. 

There is no other wraparound service like this available within the wider healthcare system. But the truth is that funding does not currently allow us to sustainably protect and grow this service in the way families deserve. 

That is why this Christmas we are launching our Snowflake Appeal. 

The appeal is about protecting one of the most important promises we make as a charity: that when the time comes, we will be there. 

Families often tell us that knowing Forget Me Not will be with them when they need us brings reassurance during their most difficult days. I have always found this incredibly humbling. 

Our Snowflake Appeal will take place from 2nd–4th December, but we’re recruiting Snowflake Appeal champions now. By signing up as a champion, you can help us spread the word and make sure we’re there when families need us most. 

Download our champions guide here – and sign up here. Thank you.