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Welcome to our Blog

Thoughts from staff, young people and family members. We’re covering a range of topics that we think you’ll find useful, plus inspiring stories and topics we’re really passionate about. You can find out more about what we do as a local charity children’s hospice – and current research and up to date advice.

12 results
Image of a child hugging an adult
How to support a grieving child
We want to reassure parents that every person’s grief is individual and unique. There is no right or wrong way of reacting to a sad event. But we also try to encourage parents to be open and honest with their child.
Image of a Nurse holding hands with a parent
Supporting families after the death of a child
Meet Claire, whose role involves helping parents and carers when they experience a bereavement and helping the whole family through the emotional impact of the death of a child.
Emma, the family's Chestnut nurse, with Nellie
Nellie’s story
"I feel a great duty to giving her the most beautiful, joyful, normal life. A life filled with love and adventure. And with the help our local children’s hospice, Chestnut Tree House, we can do just that."
Montage images of Tyler. In the hospice with a tube in his nose (left) and outdoors having fun with llamas (right)
Tyler’s story
"Our family needs support we can rely on. And like every family, we need fun too. Chestnut makes both possible."
Care support worker looking happy
What does a Nurse Associate do?
We catch up with Rachel who's worked at the hospice for over 14 years. She tells us everything you wanted to know about the role of a Care Support Worker at a children’s hospice.
Jacob and nurses at the hospice
Jacob’s story
Jacob has lots of complex medical needs - he loves spending time outdoors and splashing around in the swimming pool, His Mum tells us all about their life.
Sibling event in the woodland
Why all children benefit from making dens
Elaine, Activity Co-Ordinator, gives us a fascinating insight into the importance of making dens for children with life-limiting illnesses and their siblings. How this form of playing helps build self-esteem and their imagination.
Two women tightly holding hands on couch at home close-up
How couple’s therapy can help the whole family
Parenting can take a toll on any relationship. But when you have a child with a life-limiting condition, everyday stresses such as managing finances are magnified and supplemented by extra pressures.
Stars suite with bunny and teddy
Making memories with your child
We look at how making memories can help bereaved parents, and parents who know their child won't live until adulthood. And some of the different ways our families choose to create and remember memories.
Chestnut Tree House gardens
Our sensory gardens
Find out all about our sensory garden from Head Gardener, Nick.
Image of a child playing the piano
Communicating through music
Therapist, Joe, tells us about the innovative BritPop Therapy initiative, helping children and families connect through music.
Image of a drawing and drawing utensils.
Art is for everyone
Elaine Ford, Activities Co-ordinator, talks about the amazing artwork that the children at the House make. She also discusses the different ways art helps the children deal with their emotions and how it makes them feel.
Image of Zac in his wheelchair on a special swing

Our family stories

Read our family stories to see how Chestnut Tree House has impacted the lives of so many. All have come directly from our wonderful families who have shared their experience of caring for a child with a life-limiting illness.

Family stories

Get to know more about us:

We provide hospice services to children and young people across East and West Sussex and South East Hampshire. Every year we support 300 children with life-limiting conditions to live their lives to the fullest. From day trips out and activities at the House, specialist care in their own homes and providing families with short breaks and support.

If you’d like to support us to help us continue to provide our services, care and support for children and families who know they don’t have long together then there’s a few ways you can get involved:

  • Fundraise! We’ve got lots of helpful hints and top tips for you to put on your own fundraising event.
  • Join an event. From marathon runs, overseas treks and daring abseils… take on a personal challenge while raising money.
  • Make a donation. We need over £5million every year to provide hospice care for local children and their families, with only a small amount of this coming from central government. Without your incredible help we wouldn’t be able to continue to support children with life-threatening and life-limiting illnesses.

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