Bluebell Wood Chief Executive issues statement regarding the COVID-19 situation

20th March 2020

Simon Hills, Chief Executive of Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, has issued the following statement regarding the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) situation:

“I know this is an incredibly difficult and uncertain time for everyone, not least for the families we support who are caring for some of the most vulnerable children and young people in our society.

“As a charity focused on helping families make precious memories in the time they have together, the wellbeing of those in our care will always be our top priority. This, of course, extends to our brilliant staff and all our amazing volunteers and supporters who make our life-changing work possible.

“This is why, guided by the latest Public Health England and Government advice, we have taken the difficult decision to temporarily suspend all planned respite care at the hospice and in the community until further notice. In practice this means we are now asking families, volunteers and supporters not to visit the hospice unless we have directly advised them otherwise.

“In the weeks ahead it is absolutely vital that we are in a position to deliver emergency and end of life to care to families wherever possible, which is why it is so important that we take all reasonable steps to protect those in our care.

“In addition, we’re making sure that our Care Team will always be available over the phone to offer advice and support to every family who uses Bluebell Wood, no matter what time of day or night. We’re also working to make sure, where possible, we can deliver our services in different ways over the coming months.

“We are truly humbled by the incredible support network we have locally – without you the life-changing work we do on a daily basis simply wouldn’t be possible. Thank you for all you do to make Bluebell Wood such a wonderful place.

“In the challenging weeks and months ahead, Bluebell Wood and the families in our care will, as always, need your support to help families going through unimaginably tough times.”