Technology transforms lives at Chestnut Tree House

Published on: 25/03/2025

Over £50,000 of innovative technology and staff training has been donated to Chestnut Tree House, children’s hospice for Sussex and South East Hampshire. This package was provided by Lifelites, a charity dedicated to providing children with life-enhancing tech.

Zac using the Eyegaze and a Lifelites staff member

All of the children and young people being supported by Chestnut Tree House have life-limiting conditions and complex care needs. Some are unable to express themselves through speech or movement, requiring alternative communication methods. Most toys, games and remote controls can be challenging to use, and this is where Lifelites has made such a difference.

The technology the team has provided enables children of all abilities to have fun and express themselves. The Eyegaze, for example, is a fully portable piece of equipment including a screen that is controlled by the user’s eyes. It enables children to play games, draw pictures and also communicate with their eye movements.

Amie Gatland is a Health Care Assistance at Chestnut Tree House and also a ‘Lifelites Champion’ meaning she has received additional training to maximise use of the technology and assist colleagues too, highlighted what a difference it has made saying:

“We are a charity ourselves and it would be difficult to find funding for this. We are extremely grateful to Lifelites for donating it. The equipment is used 24/7 as each of the things they have donated has multiple uses that are suitable for all abilities. Without this equipment some of the children would not have the means to play or communicate. Having access to this type of technology completely changes how they feel and behave. It’s amazing to see.”

Another firm favourite with the Chestnut Tree families is the Sensory PODs Tent – an inflatable dome that comes with colourful lights, music, and sound effects such as farm animals. It’s large enough for mobility chairs but provides a safe and cosy atmosphere to play or relax.

All of the equipment is carefully tailored to what Chestnut Tree House needs for the children and young people in their care. Lifelites works closely with the hospice and provide the technology, technical support services, and training for free, costing around £50,000 over four years. After this period, they will return to upgrade the equipment with the latest technology.

Rob Lightfoot is the Chief Executive at Lifelites and is thrilled to able to provide such substantial support saying: “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Chestnut Tree House. As the needs of the children and families using their services change and become more complex, Lifelites has responded by providing an extensive package of the latest assistive technology. With almost 25 years’ experience, we know that these technologies will empower children and young people with life-limiting conditions to engage and interact with the people they love and enjoy the world they live in. We hope that this support helps them to create many joyful memories.” 

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