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Issue #9

In Touch Philanthropy Newsletter

Welcome to the latest issue of In Touch We’re delighted the hospital has received a number of accolades this year, which demonstrates the extraordinary work that takes place here every day. In the new NHS league tables, Alder Hey is the top specialist children’s hospital. In addition to this, the Care Quality Commission has rated our community mental health services as outstanding, with specific highlights around working well with schools.

Tracey Wilson Head of Philanthropy

In this newsletter you can read more about our Every Second Counts CT Scanner Appeal – we've been overwhelmed with the support shown so far and are within touching distance of our target. We also have an update on the new Surgical Neonatal Unit and Same Day Emergency Care Centre – the structural completion of the building is complete and we can’t wait to open our doors to these incredible new spaces for patients and families in 2026. We simply couldn’t achieve what we do

without your support. Thank you for your continued commitment, which empowers us to be there for patients, families, and NHS colleagues when they need it most. We’re truly grateful.

TRA

Patients are always at the heart of everything we do, so we are delighted that Alder Hey has been ranked second in the country in the national NHS Children and Young People’s Patient Experience Survey, based on feedback from children themselves. We placed in the top five nationally for every category, including 1st place in three categories.

We all know Alder Hey is a magical place, and it’s wonderful to see the quality of our services for children and young people noticed, and recognised. Thank you for your part in making our hospital one of the best in the world, and most importantly, helping us to continue delivering the best experience for our patients and their families.

PHIL ANTHRO

Put Children First makes its voice heard in Westminster It has been a busy few months for our Put Children First campaign, as representatives travelled to London to deliver a letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, written and signed by children, and an event at the Houses of Parliament allowed us to talk directly to MPs. Put Children First wants the government to put children at the heart of all government decision-making. A trip to Downing Street In April, an open letter to the Prime Minister was written by 16-year-old Jai and 11-year-old Sophia. The letter was signed by more than 30 children, young people and child-focused charities, who want this country to be a place where “every child gets the opportunity to follow their dreams, not letting medical or financial obstacles get in their way”. Sophia and Jai delivered their letter to 10 Downing Street accompanied by our

CEO Fiona Ashcroft and Knowsley MP Anneliese Midgley. At the Houses of Parliament In May, Put Children First hosted a parliamentary event, bringing together campaign members with MPs from all major parties. The aim was to share our goals and calls to action with those who can influence policy decisions. This was a milestone event in our campaign efforts, excellently summed up by Fiona Ashcroft: “Many of the issues which we are now contending with are simply beyond the scope of our services; we need policymakers to act.”

Sophia and Jai join Liverpool MPs Ian Byrne and Kim Johnson at Westminster

Alder Hey’s clinicians and experts call the current climate a children’s health emergency, with children in poorer households disproportionately affected. A record 4.5 million children live in poverty in the UK, so there has never been a more crucial time for a radical redesign of the health system, with children and young people at its heart. For more information on how you can support the campaign, please get in touch:

helen.murray@alderhey.nhs.uk

Making every second count with a transformative new CT Scanner At Alder Hey, time is everything. When a child arrives with a life-threatening condition, the speed and accuracy of diagnosis can mean the difference between life and death. As part of our ongoing Every Second Counts Appeal, we’re raising £952,000 to bring a revolutionary CT scanner to Alder Hey - one that will redefine how we care for thousands of children each year. Another first for Alder Hey CT scans are essential for diagnosing trauma, tumours, and complex conditions swiftly and precisely. But our current scanner is no longer keeping pace with the growing needs of our patients. Alder Hey will be the first dedicated paediatric hospital in the world to have a Philips Spectral CT 7500 Pro Scanner. This CT Scanner’s revolutionary new technology offers sharper imaging, faster results, and a safer experience - reducing radiation, 4

sedation, and anxiety for our brave young patients and their families. We asked our Consultant Paediatric Radiologist, Dr Caren Landes, about the difference this scanner will make:

“

We will be able to scan children and babies much more quickly and reduce radiation to levels as low as a simple X-ray, which is so important when imaging children. Our radiology department has a stellar reputation, and if we get this scanner now, we can lead the way for the rest of the world.

”

The new CT Scanner will: • Cut scan times from minutes to under 20 seconds • Reduce sedation by up to 80% • Lower radiation exposure by around 40% • Deliver faster, clearer diagnoses • Create a calming experience with ambient lighting and soothing visuals This opportunity is only possible with your support. A huge thank you to everyone who has donated so far, bringing our appeal total to nearly £900,000. We now have less than £100,000 to raise! Every gift, big or small, brings us closer to delivering this breakthrough technology to the children who need it most. If you would like more information about how you can support our CT scanner appeal, please get in touch: charli.canfer@alderhey.nhs.uk

Dr Caren Landes is a Consultant Paediatric Radiologist at Alder Hey

Harry's Journey Harry was a healthy, energetic little boy. But when his voice suddenly changed, and then, during a family holiday, he began choking on food, things took a scary turn. His mum, Laura, rushed him to Alder Hey, where doctors quickly realised something was seriously wrong. Harry’s condition deteriorated rapidly. Investigations revealed the devastating discovery that Harry had a brain tumour pressing on vital areas, affecting his ability to speak and swallow. He developed pneumonia and was placed in intensive care. Surgeons removed over 90% of the tumour, and against all odds, Harry began to regain the ability to speak and eat. For nine months, Harry’s scans remained stable, but then the tumour grew back. Further intervention was needed, including proton beam therapy, a highly specialised form of radiotherapy used for treating children with certain types of brain tumour.

Just days before treatment, Harry and his family suffered the heartbreaking loss of his dad. At only six years old, Harry endured six weeks of intensive treatment while grieving.

Harry’s mum, Laura, describes Alder Hey as a ‘land of remarkable people,’ where lives are saved, battles are fought, and children like Harry are given the best chance to keep moving forward.

Each time Harry’s condition changed, doctors needed to assess what was happening, so he was taken for a CT scan. These scans were crucial in determining when and where intervention was needed, playing a vital role in his journey.

For Harry and so many others, the new CT scanner will provide the reality of faster and more effective care, ensuring they can continue their journeys with strength and confidence.

Now 10 years old, Harry continues to face medical challenges but remains full of humour and resilience, often joking with and teasing his doctors. He loves drawing comics, watching Marvel films, and cheering for Everton’s Jordan Pickford.

True Blue Harry continues to find joy and strength during his journey at Alder Hey 5

A summer of creativity and care at Sunflower House Our specialist mental health unit, Sunflower House, continues to be a safe and nurturing ‘home from home’ for children aged 5-13 years old with complex mental health needs. With 12 bedrooms and dedicated therapeutic spaces, it offers calm, comfort, and stability during some of the most challenging times in a child’s life. This summer, thanks to your generous support, children staying in Sunflower House have taken part in a vibrant programme of educational and therapeutic activities designed to support their learning, creativity, and emotional wellbeing.

Artwork created by our Sunflower House patients

Some highlights include: • Art & Spray Paint Sessions– Encouraging emotional expression through bold, visual creativity.

• LEGO & Explore & Create Activities – Supporting cognitive development through hands-on, purposeful play.

• Aromatherapy & Wellbeing Walks – Helping young people reconnect with nature and develop calming mindfulness strategies.

• Trips to Bowling, Chester Zoo & Local Farms – Offering joyful experiences beyond the hospital walls and a chance to simply be children.

• Everyman Theatre Group & Storytellers Club – Boosting confidence and imagination through drama and storytelling.

• Craft Sessions – From sewing to seasonal crafts, these activities foster creativity and pride in personal achievement.

Each session has been thoughtfully tailored to meet the needs of our young people, offering moments of joy, discovery, and emotional growth. Beyond the therapeutic

benefits, these experiences help children feel seen, valued, and capable. Your support makes all this possible. Every smile, every new skill, and every spark of curiosity is a testament to the difference you make. If you would like more information about how you can support children in Sunflower House, please get in touch: charli.canfer@alderhey.nhs.uk

Our brand-new Blossom House Community Care Centre When people think of Alder Hey, they often picture the vibrant atrium of our main children’s hospital. But our reach extends far into Merseyside, delivering expert care, closer to the homes of our patients. Alder Hey is embedded in the community, reducing the need for travel and ensuring every child has access to world-class treatment. Blossom House is a centre of expert care, supporting patients living in Sefton and Waterloo, from birth to 19 years old. It is home to a wide range of specialist services including speech & language therapy, physiotherapy, mental health support, and eating disorder treatment. The centre also offers a dedicated day unit for children transitioning from our

mental health inpatient Unit, Sunflower House. Here they can attend lessons, enjoy mealtimes, and participate in therapeutic activities, offering a gentle bridge between hospital and home. As one of our newest centres, Blossom House is undergoing a transformation to reflect the warmth, innovation, and magic of Alder Hey. With patient numbers rising, this redevelopment ensures we continue to deliver bespoke, compassionate care in a space designed around children and families. Key Features planned for Blossom House Sensory Garden - Our magical sensory garden will be a safe, calming space where children can engage with treatments, surrounded by nature. Appointments held here will reduce anxiety and encourage participation, improving clinical outcomes. Waiting Area - Inside, our waiting area will be filled with sensory toys and interactive equipment to turn waiting into a moment of play and comfort.

Our newly refurbished Blossom House will bring the magic of Alder Hey into the heart of the community. Treatment Rooms Our treatment rooms will be equipped with advanced, child-friendly equipment that goes above and beyond NHS provision, tailored to support key conditions and adaptable for indoor or outdoor use. By creating spaces that reduce stress, foster engagement and deliver specialist care, Blossom House will continue to extend the magic of Alder Hey into the heart of the community. If you would like more information about how you can support developments at Blossom House, please get in touch: emily.martin@alderhey.nhs.uk

Surgical Neonatal and Same Day Emergency Care Update We’re delighted to share that we’ve entered the final phase of our brand-new Surgical Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Same Day Emergency Care Centre — both set to open in 2026. This incredible milestone is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s a powerful step forward in our mission to deliver world-

The vibrant, colourful, exterior facade is in place

class care to children and their families — now and for generations to come. Everyone here at Alder Hey is buzzing with excitement as we watch this longheld dream come to life. Thank you to everyone who has supported these appeals and helped make this possible. Together, we’re building a healthier, happier and fairer future for children everywhere.

The final countdown begins! The next few months will bring a flurry of exciting activity. As service installations wrap up, walls will be expertly plastered, and sleek new flooring will be laid - transforming the spaces from a construction site into a healing sanctuary. To complete the vision, a calming palette of soft green tones on the first floor Neonatal Unit, and yellow downstairs in the Emergency Care Centre, will flow throughout, designed to bring a sense of peace, comfort, and harmony to every family who walks through our doors.

The story so far The vibrant, colourful external façade of the build is now in place, as are most of the internal walls and partitions. Service installations – including electrics and plumbing – are well underway. Given the complexity of the project, every step is We’re almost there — and we can’t wait carefully planned. Our team has focused to open the doors to this beautiful new on perfecting one room on each floor building. first, using it as a model to streamline the process and ensure maximum Every step of the project efficiency. The insights gained here is carefully planned to are guiding the rollout across the transform the inside of rest of the building. the new building

Welcoming back Betty In June we celebrated the structural completion of the building joined by a very special guest, Betty Batt. Betty was born prematurely and spent the first 13 months of her life in our neonatal care — a journey filled with courage, resilience, and love. Betty and her parents, Karen and Phil, were invited to take part in a heartwarming milestone: writing a message on our “Wish in the Wall”, which will be built into the new building, carrying hopes and dreams for the future.

Betty and her family write a message on our “Wish in the Wall”

Celebrating teamwork, one baby step at a time The Liverpool Neonatal Partnership Team were shortlisted at the 2025 BAPM Gopi Menon Awards, which recognises outstanding contributions to perinatal care across the UK. The Partnership is a collaboration between Alder Hey and Liverpool Women’s Hospital, focused on creating a single, safer neonatal service for babies. “Today there is a full team that work on both the Women’s and Alder Hey sites. The effect of this is that we are forming partnerships across all of the specialities at Alder Hey, in order to put the needs of babies and their families at the centre of what we do.” Dr Alison Bedford Russell 9

Same Day Emergency Care Appeal - Olivia’s story Olivia, a football-loving Everton fan from Liverpool, faced a distressing ordeal when the backs of her earrings became stuck inside her earlobes. Her mum, Hayley, first took her to a piercing shop, but when they couldn’t remove them, they rushed to the Urgent Treatment Centre in Kirkby. For Olivia, who’s always been anxious around hospitals, the experience was overwhelming. The doctor at Kirkby referred her to Whiston, where a long wait led to another referral—this time to Alder Hey’s Early Bird Clinic. The next morning, Olivia met a kind and patient registrar who immediately put her at ease. Understanding her fears, he offered her the choice to wait or return another day.

From the moment we walked in, we were met with warmth and reassurance.

Olivia chose the latter, and Vicky Pimblett, an Advanced Nurse Practitioner in plastic surgery, arranged for her to come back that Friday. “Vicky was brilliant. From the moment we walked in, we were met with warmth and reassurance. As we were in during the Christmas period, the hospital looked magical, which really made a difference to our visit.” Hayley, Olivia’s mum The procedure was simple, done under local anaesthetic, and finished in just 90 minutes. After 13 days of stress, tears, and hospital visits, Olivia was finally free of the earrings. "It was such a simple thing, but it became a really difficult time for Olivia. The Same Day Emergency Care Centre sounds fantastic, and if the centre had been available to facilitate this service for Olivia, it would have saved us so much stress. The team at Alder Hey were amazing, and we’re so grateful to Vicky. However, if children like Olivia could be seen, treated, and discharged all on the

The new Same Day Emergency Care Centre would have made a big difference to Olivia

same day, it would make such a difference to families like ours." Hayley, Olivia’s mum As they left, Olivia—who plays for AFC Knowsley—was finally able to relax, ready to get back on the pitch and enjoy the festive season without any more worry. Our new Same Day Emergency Care Centre is planned to open in 2026. For more information about how you can support our appeal please contact:

tracey.wilson@alderhey.nhs.uk

Small Things, Big Impact For over a decade, Small Things Dance Collective has been a feature of Alder Hey’s Arts for Health programme. When bubbles float down the corridor, bells gently chime, or a ribbon flutters through the air, you know Small Things Dance Collective has arrived. These are just some of the playful tools they adopt alongside dance, music and sensory engagement. Reducing isolation and anxiety Extended hospital stays can deeply affect a child’s physical and emotional well-being. Being away from family and everyday life can lead to feelings of isolation and anxiety. That’s where Small Things Dance Collective makes a big difference. They bring something special, transforming clinical spaces into places of creativity and comfort. Each session is tailored to a child’s needs. Movement might begin from the bed, with

gentle stretches, reaching for bubbles, or exploring sensory materials. For children recovering from surgery, often with limited mobility, these sessions offer a safe and imaginative way to move without fear. Pain and anxiety around movement are real, and the team seeks to help children overcome this through rhythm, play, and trust. Letting children take the lead Importantly, each session is child-led. In hospital, children often have very little choice, but here, they’re given control. They guide the pace, play, and movement. This opportunity to take the lead helps them regain a sense of control and confidence, which supports their recovery.

Reflecting on the programme, Arts for Health co-ordinator Vicky Charnock said, “Whether it is high-energy dance or the smallest of movements, they have consistently made a positive impact on our patients and helped to create the magic of Alder Hey.” Healing comes in many forms, and sometimes, it begins with bubbles and a gentle stretch. Through this programme, patients are rediscovering joy and reconnecting with themselves, one small movement at a time. If you would like more information about how you can support our Arts for Health programme, please get in touch: jennifer.graham2@alderhey.nhs.uk

Stretching to catch bubbles is a simple, joyful moment that’s helping to support recovery through movement and play. 11

Transforming support for families Because of your generosity, Alder Hey’s Wellbeing Hub has delivered a lifeline to families this year, helping families secure benefits they are entitled to and providing vital support to parents navigating some of the most challenging moments of their lives. Funded with donations to Alder Hey Children’s Charity, the Hub has reimagined how we care for families, uniting services such as Citizens Advice, Health Junction, Patient Advice and Liaison Service, and our chaplaincy team under one welcoming space in the hospital atrium. This integrated approach means families facing financial hardship, housing issues, debt, or the emotional strain when they have a sick child in hospital can access the right support quickly and compassionately. Thanks to your support, the Hub has already delivered measurable results: 12

The Wellbeing Hub team helping families when they need it most

Financial Support Delivered • 79 families supported, representing 121 children • £170,163 of additional welfare income secured, averaging £2,153 per household • £32,651 of priority debt addressed, significantly reducing stress and risk for Alder Hey families. Personalised Family Support • 84 referrals, supporting 156 people with 377 tailored social prescriptions • Help for families managing financial pressures, SEND needs, mental health concerns, and access to community support.

These first months have shown just how vital this service is. Families know they aren’t alone, and that’s only possible because of you. Jenny Dalzell, Strategic Partnership Lead This is the transformational power of your philanthropy, creating a service that delivers immediate, tangible support while laying the foundation for long-term change. Thank you for helping us build a future where no family at Alder Hey faces their challenges alone. To find out more about the ways you can support this project, please get in touch: amanda.jones@alderhey.nhs.uk

Helping little patients feel calm For many children, a hospital visit can be daunting. Needles, unfamiliar sounds, and clinical settings can trigger intense anxiety. Now imagine transforming that fear into calm. SmileyScope, an awardwinning, medical-grade virtual reality (VR) headset, is doing exactly that, transporting children at Alder Hey to another world where they can feel safe, supported, and in control during medical procedures. SmileyScope uses immersive VR experiences to guide children through procedures like blood tests, MRI scans or wound care. In one of the most popular experiences, children dive into an underwater world, feeling gentle waves as antiseptic is applied and watching playful fish nibble as a needle is used. This simple shift in focus reduces fear and pain, turning moments of distress into moments of calm.

Bringing innovation to Alder Hey The results are remarkable - clinical trials show a 60% reduction in needle pain and significant decreases in anxiety and restraint. SmileyScope is already in use across major hospitals in Australia and the US. Now, we want to bring this innovation to even more children right here at Alder Hey, equipping our hospital with SmileyScope technology, training staff, and ensuring that every child who needs it, has access to this life-changing equipment. Anaesthetist, Swapnil Aswar has been using SmileyScope with his patients and told us, “VR headsets provide a safe and enjoyable distraction for children during anaesthesia induction, helping to reduce fear and improve cooperation in the anaesthetic room. Induction of anesthesia, the moment children go to sleep, is often one of the most frightening parts of their surgical journey, but for many children, the headsets offer an immersive and effective way to ease anxiety.”

SmileyScope doesn’t just ease fear and pain today, it helps children build positive associations with their care, making any future hospital visits calmer and less overwhelming. To find out more about the ways you can support this project, please get in touch: amanda.jones@alderhey.nhs.uk 13

Space to heal - supporting bereaved siblings The death of a child touches every part of a family. While attention is often given to parents, siblings can quietly carry their grief. In these moments, the Alder Centre offers a vital source of comfort and care. Lisa McElroy, Volunteer Coordinator at the Alder Centre, and Gemma Longworth, founder of Hidden Gems, a creative bereavement support group, share a commitment to help children navigate grief. We caught up with them to find out more. 14

How long have you been with the Alder Centre?

Why is it important to create space for siblings to express themselves?

Lisa: I’ve been with the Alder Centre since 2021, coordinating our volunteers. They’re at the heart of everything we do, including supporting the Child Death Helpline and our Therapeutic Breaks.

Lisa: Siblings often experience a unique kind of grief. They’re mourning their brother or sister, witnessing their parents’ grief, and sometimes stepping into a caring role. All while trying to figure out who they are.

Gemma: The Centre has been part of my life and my family’s for 30 years. I lost my brother when I was young and struggled to express my feelings. Art became my outlet and helped me process my grief. That experience inspired me to create Hidden Gems, a space where bereaved siblings can express themselves and connect with others who understand.

Gemma: Losing a sibling can shape your identity. Even now, I’m still known as “Gemma, who lost her little brother.” It’s so important for siblings to have a space where they can feel supported and be themselves. Can you tell us about Hidden Gems and how it helps? Gemma: We welcome children aged 6 to 16 to weekly sessions at the Centre. Activities are led by the children and might include T-shirt design, tote bag decorating and more. Showcasing

Lisa pictured left and Gemma right

their artwork in an exhibition is a new opportunity we’re all looking forward to. It’s a space where children can laugh, create, and build friendships, where they’re reminded it’s ok to be themselves, and that joy and grief can exist side by side. One parent told me how their daughter explained Hidden Gems to a friend by saying, “We go to Hidden Gems because art heals your heart”. That beautifully captures what it’s all about. What other support do you offer? Lisa: Each year, we organise a therapeutic weekend away for bereaved families. It’s a chance to step away from daily routines, connect with others, and try something new. This year’s trip focused on nature, with the children building campfires and shelters with their families, walking with alpacas, and constructing and launching rockets. These shared experiences help children express themselves in new ways and build confidence. Having Gemma at this event is incredibly valuable for parents. She offers insight

At Hidden Gems, children laugh, create, and build friendships in a space where it’s okay to simply be themselves.

into a child’s perspective, helping parents understand what their children might be feeling. Her lived experience brings reassurance and strengthens the parentchild relationship. How are you reaching more children? Lisa: We’re always looking for new ways to engage. One idea we’re exploring is a monthly cinema session at Alder Hey’s Medicinema. It’s a gentle, low-pressure environment where children can simply be present. For some, this helps build comfort and may lead them to join groups like Hidden Gems. Every child is different,

so offering a variety of options helps break down barriers and gives families a sense of choice and control. Through creativity, connection, and compassionate support, the Alder Centre is helping bereaved siblings find their voice and feel part of a community where they’re truly understood. If you would like more information about how you can support the Alder Centre, please get in touch: jennifer.graham2@alderhey.nhs.uk 15

Thank You On behalf of everyone at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, thank you for helping us to create bright futures for babies, children and young people. Alder Hey Children’s Charity, Eaton Road, Liverpool, L12 2AP www.alderheycharity.org

TRACE Y WIL SO N Head of Phi l ant hropy t racey.wi l s on@ al derhey. nhs . uk 07903 70 5 331

AMANDA JONES Phi l ant hropy Manag er amanda.jones@alderhey.nhs.uk 07887 98731 1

Helen

Jennifer

JENNIFER GRAHAM Phi l ant hropy Fundraiser j enni f er. g raham2 @ al derhey.nhs.uk 07960 016737

H E L E N M U R R AY Phi l ant hropy Support L ead helen.murray@alderhey.nhs.uk 0792 5 86 02 6 7

CHARLI CANFER Phi l ant hropy Fundraiser charl i . canf er@ al derh ey.nhs.uk 0 1 51 95 3 0 181

Emily

Kenneth

E M I LY M A R T I N Phi l ant hropy Of f i cer emily.martin@alderhey.nhs.uk 0151 953 0183

KENNETH LEUNG Phi l ant hropy As sistant kenneth.leung@alderhey.nhs.uk 0 1 51 95 3 0 1 86