I have been wanting to support a local charity for some time. After seeing what Claire House Children's Hospice does after watching Children in Need, I was totally bowled over by what they do. The hospice provides respite, end-of-life and bareavement care for children and yound adults with complex medical needs up the age of 23. They also support the whole family, providing support and counselling for as long as needed. The work also extends far beyond the hospice grounds. Their specialist nursing team also work in the community through their Hospice to Home scheme, which offers care and support in the family home. As I did the Great North Swim last year I thought I should do something extra this year if I am hoping to raise funds. So I'm doing it all again a week later in Salford Quays for the Great Salford Swim! It took me a month to recover last year!!

After seeing Claire House on Children in Need, I went to visit the hospice, and I am due to go again this week. If you have the time, please take a few minutes to look at the website. Every penny counts as to keep running the way it is, Claire House needs £2.5 million a year.

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So please dig deep and donate now.