Search
Donate

Next Steps for Leo House

Published on: 24/11/2023

For over 20 years Leo House has raised money to support children in their homes. In 2011 they decided to work exclusively with us and both charities have clearly seen the benefits of this alliance. Today we take the next logical step and fully merge together. As the charity sector becomes tougher it’s important we all focus on the end goal, supporting children, this merger means that we can do just that.

About Leo House

When Brighton Lions decided to start a fundraising campaign to mark their 50th anniversary, they couldn’t have predicted how much they would achieve. Twenty-two years later, Leo House has raised more than £2 million and supported home respite care to families with life-limited children. In 1999 when the Lions began to discuss ideas for their fundraising drive, Sussex didn’t have a children’s hospice and the group’s ambition was to raise the funds to establish one. Following a meeting with representatives from the NHS and other organisations supporting life-limited children in Sussex, it was agreed to change the plan to fund nurses to work with families in their own homes.

Since 2011 Leo House has been working exclusively with nurses within the Community Team at Chestnut Tree House.

A message from the Leo House Trustees:

“We would like to thank all the people who have supported us, bought 1000s of raffle tickets, made donations, taken part in quizzes, organised events, sponsored events and acted as trustees.

“As we stand aside, we’ll be thinking of the hundreds of children and families who have been helped over the last 22 years. Transferring Leo House’s fundraising to Chestnut Tree House is a positive step, which will hopefully mean helping even more families in future."

Two healthcare workers on a community visit

Find out more about the care Chestnut Tree House provides

Our community care is a vital aspect of the hospice. It gives parents and carers in Sussex and South East Hampshire a well-earned break, children and young people a routine and some independence, and it gives families additional support during times of crisis.

Services in the community

Questions and answers about the future of Leo House

Will my money still continue to be used to help children and their families in their homes?

  • The money raised for Leo House will be used to support the work that Chestnut Tree House does with children, young people and families in the community.

Will the children and their families still receive the personal care and support that Leo House has provided?

  • Yes, the amount and quality of the care being provided to the children and their families will not change.

Will the Leo House nurses continue to be employed in the new organisation?

  • The nurses supported by Leo House are part of the Chestnut Tree House Community Team and this will not change.

I am a member of the Leo House 50/50 Lottery, what is happening to the lottery?

  • The Leo House Lottery will close after the Grand draw in December. Players will be contacted by letter and they are asked to cancel their standing orders now. If you would like to play the lottery for Chestnut Tree House, you can sign up from just £1!

In the future, can I still raise funds for you?

  • Leo House has merged with Chestnut Tree House. If you would like to continue fundraising for the care of children and young people with life-limiting conditions in Sussex and South East Hampshire, Chestnut Tree House would be delighted to hear from you. Have a look at all the fundraising opportunities.

I have left a legacy for Leo House in my will. Will it still go to the cause I have chosen?

  • Yes, all money left to Leo House will go directly to support the care of life-limited children and their families, cared for by Chestnut Tree House within the community.

I have other questions, how do I get in touch with Leo House at Home?

Find out more

Image of Jess at the House
Sign up to our newsletter
Our newsletter is a great way to discover what's happening at the hospice, find out about all our upcoming events, fundraising plans and much more!
Sign up today
Child smiling looking over her parent's shoulder
The impact your donation makes
Without your incredible help we wouldn't be able to continue to support children with life-threatening and life-limiting illnesses - your donation can make all the difference.
Read more
Image of a child at the house having fun and covered in paint
What we do
Find out about what we offer and how we help local children with life-shortening illnesses. Plus our history and CQC rating.
Read more

Sign up to our e-newsletter

By providing your details you confirm you're over 18 years old

Please complete the fields below: