As a family retailer Wilkinson felt passionate that children with life limiting or terminal illnesses should be able to enjoy their childhood to the fullest, and that their parents and brothers or sisters can spend that time with them. Because of this the high street retailer has helped fund the salary of Bluebell’s first nursery nurse and sibling support worker Claire Thomas.

Claire began working full time in October to support with quality care and play, and support patients’ families, such as helping out at sibling weekends where patients’ brothers and sisters visit without their parents. These events are extremely vital in shaping bereavement support.

Bluebell Wood’s Director of Fundraising, Greg Oldfield said: “It’s fantastic that Wilkinson has supported us in this way. Without this support this post wouldn’t be in place. Claire is doing a great job and is making a real difference to the quality of life of local families and in providing real support to the siblings. We really appreciate Wilkinson’s support at such a crucial and exciting time. “

Donna Goodwin, Wilkinson assistant communications manager said: “Bluebell Wood is the only children’s hospice in an 80 mile radius - touching the community of many of our stores. We felt it extremely important that the children and families touched by life limiting or terminal illnesses should get as much support as possible to be able to enjoy the time they spend together. We hope that by providing funding for Claire, this time together can be more enjoyable, and also that Bluebell Wood can provide further amenities and provisions for the children and families.”

Because it’s the extra touches that make somewhere feel a little bit more like home, Wilkinson has also provided garden tables and chairs for families to enjoy the new garden – which is quickly progressing!

Click here to go to the Wilkinson website.

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