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OUR hOUSE AUTUMN 2026

A LIFE FULL OF LOVE BECAUSE OF YOU, LITTLE ‘HEART WARRIOR’ TOBIAS CAN ENJOY CHILDHOOD MOMENTS FILLED WITH LOVE, LAUGHTER AND THE SPECIALIST CARE HIS FAMILY DEPENDS ON.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 4. A Life Full of Love

Liverpool mum Lizz shares Tobias’s story and how Claire House goes the extra mile, supporting him after time in Alder Hey and bringing care closer to home for families like his.

8. Making Memories in the Darkest Days

Mum Jess, from Wallasey, reflects on losing baby Cora and the ongoing support her family receives, with Claire House helping them create cherished moments they’ll hold forever.

12. The Extra Mile Counts

At Claire House, going the extra mile is part of everyday care. Here are just some of the stories that families have shared about staff going above and beyond.

14. The Hospice Means Everything to Our Family

Jack’s family share how Claire House supports their 22-year-old son’s complex needs, giving them a place of comfort where they can rest, recharge and feel fully supported together.

18. Our House News

Catch up on the latest news from your local children’s hospice.

20. Hospice Rocky Road

A classic Claire House treat, enjoyed across the hospice – follow our easy recipe to recreate it at home.

22. Fun and Games

Take a moment with a cuppa and enjoy our riddles and games.

WELCOME TO OUR HOUSE

I’m Lizz, mum to both Tobias, our cheeky, fearless little boy who fills our days with love, and his proud big sister Eli-Vieve. His heart condition means life can feel uncertain at times, but Claire House has been there through it all. When he visits, Tobias can splash in the hydrotherapy pool, whizz around in the electric car and have fun, while I know he’s surrounded by people who genuinely care. Because of you, we’re able to make memories together and enjoy moments that mean everything. You help families like ours feel less alone and give us that precious time together to treasure. I hope you enjoy reading this edition and seeing the difference you make every day. Thanks, Tobias’s mummy, Lizz

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this edition of Our House. In particular, the Claire House families featured. Editor

Tina Miles tina.miles@clairehouse.org.uk Contributors

Kathryn Green, Hannah Shannon, Laura Kelly Photography:

KC-Imaging Design and layout

creativedesignwork.co.uk

Claire House Children’s Hospice Clatterbridge Road, Bebington, CH63 4JD 0151 343 0883 clairehouse.org.uk Registered charity number 1004058 Company number 02620240

a life full of love

m lizz

tobias with mu

When Lizz’s son Tobias was born with a complex heart condition, life changed overnight. But thanks to Claire House, the family has found comfort and support, helping them enjoy precious moments together.

“Tobias is a cheeky and mischievous little boy who’s absolutely bursting with love. He’s wild!” laughs mum Lizz. “He loves nursery and all his friends, eating Chinese food and playing cars with his big sister, Eli-Vieve. And he absolutely loves coming to Claire House Children’s Hospice. He’s our little heart warrior!” To most people, Tobias looks like any other four-year-old - full of energy and never far from a toy car. But he was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), meaning only one side of his heart works as it should. He can tire easily, turn blue and faces multiple major surgeries. “Everything was normal for the first 12 hours,” explains Lizz. “At his 24-hour checks, doctors found 44% oxygen levels. He was in heart failure. He was turning blue and in distress, so they rushed him to resus, intubated him and gave medication to keep him alive.”

“he absolutely loves coming to Claire House” The next day, Tobias was transferred to intensive care at Alder Hey, where the family first met Claire House. “When he was just a couple of days old, two ladies from the hospice introduced themselves and asked if we’d like some support.” Through every stage of Tobias’s journey, Claire House has been there. Earlier this year, he underwent a tricuspid valve repair – one of his riskiest operations. “If it hadn’t worked, it would have changed his life completely. As it stands, it’s improved things and means he can now move forward to his next operation. “The visits when he’s been unwell have made all the difference,” says Lizz. “Some

d steven Tobias with da ieve -v and sister eli

same “If we had the ol as erpo facilities in Liv would , it on the Wirral easier.” ing make everyth of the team came over after he had his drains out and brought him a present while he was in ICU. If I need anything, they’re there. It’s an extended family.” Tobias attends Claire House Liverpool in West Derby for day care sessions, giving him a sense of independence and giving Lizz time to recharge. “He waits by the window for them to pick him up,” she smiles. “He gets made a fuss of and talks about it for days after. He loves it! “It warms my heart so much to see how happy he is there.”

Being so close to home in Kirkby transformed what’s possible for the family. “You can’t beat it being 15 minutes away,” says Lizz. “If he’s had surgery, travelling for that long just isn’t ideal.” The family also visit the Wirral hospice, where features like the hydrotherapy pool offer rare opportunities. “We can’t take Tobias to a normal pool because it’s too cold, he’d go blue,” Lizz explains. “But at Claire House, we can all go in together. It’s warm, safe and comforting. It’s something we never imagined we’d be able to do. We treasure that time.” However, travelling through the tunnel isn’t always easy and for families like Lizz’s, having a full hospice in Liverpool would make a huge difference. “It’s so important for families on this side of the water,” she says. “If we had the same facilities in Liverpool as on the Wirral,

into fun tobias whizzing erpool e liv at claire hous

tobias splash ing around in the hydroth erapy pool

it would make everything easier. More families could get the support they need.

For Lizz, it’s impossible to imagine life without the charity.

“If I didn’t drive, we wouldn’t be able to get there. Public transport would put Tobias at risk of picking up an infection.

“I can’t imagine the journey without Claire House. We’d be lost,” she says. “It doesn’t bear thinking about.

“If everything was here, I’d feel more comfortable with respite stays too, and Alder Hey is right there. You don’t feel a million miles away.

“They’ve given us time, memories and support. It means everything.”

“It would open up more opportunities for Tobias, and for his sister Eli-Vieve, who loves the sibling events. I’d be able to spend more one-to-one time with her while he has respite stays.” Despite everything, Tobias continues to embrace life, especially at Claire House Liverpool, where he can have fun, racing around in an electric car.

£60

could fund a hydrotherapy swim for a parent and their child

“He runs straight in like he owns the place,” Lizz laughs. “He loves the car in the garden, just being free and having fun.”

making memories in the darkest days After the devastating loss of her baby daughter, Cora, mum Jess shares how Claire House has helped her family, and why bereavement support has made such a lasting difference.

When Jess and Ashley welcomed their twin girls, Rose and Cora, in 2019, they never imagined their early days would be marked by such heartbreak. But when Cora suddenly became seriously unwell, she was transferred to Alder Hey, where the family received the devastating news she wouldn’t survive.

After saying goodbye, they returned to Arrowe Park, where baby Rose was still being cared for. It was there, during their grief, that they were first introduced to Claire House Children’s Hospice. “One of the nurses gently said, ‘Have you been told Claire House can support you?’ “Being from the Wirral, everyone knows Claire House,” explains Jess. “We certainly did, but we saw it as a hospice, not somewhere that could support families after a child dies. We’d never lost a baby before, and we had no idea what to do next.” Soon after Cora was diagnosed with NEC, a serious bowel condition that affects premature babies, the family had to say goodbye. “Within the hour, Claire House was with us at the hospital. They lovingly collected Cora from Alder Hey so she could be with us,” shares Jess.

cora

“In the days that followed, Cora rested in the Butterfly Suite at Claire House – a special place where a child can rest after they have died, as an alternative to a

Ashley, Jess and Ros e wit a photograph of Ros h e’s twin sister Cora

Rose in the hley with Jess and As aire House, Wirral. Cl at s en rd ga

funeral directors. It is the most amazing place. The room was decorated for her, with everything girly and princess-like and lullabies playing in the background. “We didn’t have to make an appointment to see her, and it was amazing to have that time together.” Through unimaginable loss, Claire House helped the family create moments they will treasure forever. “My husband Ashley and I were supported to make memories: her first lock of hair, her handprints…all the precious things parents usually do in their own time at home after having a newborn,” says Jess. “We could never have imagined not having the time to do those things, but Claire House made sure we did.

“without claire house, we wouldn’t have the memories we now treasure” 10

“We got to put her in a pram and take her for a walk around the grounds. It’s only years later you realise we never would have done that otherwise. When your head is all over the place, they gently make sure you don’t miss those moments.” For Ashley, Claire House became a sanctuary, a place where he could sit quietly with Cora, a cup of coffee and some toast in hand, while Jess spent time with Rose at Arrowe Park. “We could move between the hospital and the Butterfly Suite, spending time with both our girls,” shares Jess. “Using a cold cot meant we could also bring Cora home – somewhere she’d only ever been inside my tummy. “It was that support, and us caring for Rose, that was our light in those darkest days. “Without Claire House, we wouldn’t have the memories we now treasure. Rose is now six and embodies everything Cora left behind – she’s so funny and certainly keeps us on our toes!

“Cora was tiny, just 1lb 9oz and half the size of her sister. But she was feisty! We called her ‘little legs’ because her legs were always on the go. I often wonder how different she’d have been to Rose, or if they’d have been two peas in a pod.” Claire House has offered everything from counselling to complimentary therapies, while Ashley plays football with other Claire House dads. “We’d be in a very different place without Claire House. “Still to this day, we’re supported. We get involved in social events for bereaved parents, from a bottomless brunch and karaoke session to The Traitors, there’s always something going on! “Our eldest daughter was 12 at the time, and just weeks after losing Cora, we were plunged into lockdown with none of the usual family support around us. Claire House moved everything online so we could still get help, and we benefitted so much. “It was a very dark time, but we only have fond memories of everything that was done for us and how they still support us today. “We will forever be indebted to every person who supports this charity.”

£147

could fund a 1:1 counselling session for three family members ra and rose

jess with co

the extra mile counts

During moments of uncertainty and crisis, a simple act of kindness can make a huge difference. Every day, Claire House teams go above and beyond to support families facing some of life’s toughest challenges, offering not just practical help, but reassurance, understanding and hope. From thoughtful gestures to extraordinary efforts behind the scenes, here are just some of the people that families have highlighted as going the extra mile.

Andy, Young Adult CoOrdinator

Andy went above and beyond when a young adult wanted to be with his beloved pet at the end of his life. After making a significant journey to the family home to collect the little sausage dog, Andy reunited them at Claire House, helping to provide comfort and reassurance at a frightening time. As part of his bucket list, the teenager also had fun throwing custard pies at Andy and had a beautiful family photo shoot to create lasting memories. The previous year, Andy also organised for him to see a Nickelback concert, where he had the “best night of his life” meeting his music heroes. Andy’s approach to his role is simple: “If you can make a positive difference, you should.”

Vickie, Head Cook

Some of the children we care for are unable to speak, so Vickie has created a special menu to give them a clear and simple way of sharing what they would like to eat. By using sticky pictures with easyto-read words, her interactive menu means children can point to their food choices or stick them to a velcro plate. This helps children to feel better understood, making mealtimes much more enjoyable for them and their families.

Jane, ComplEmentary Therapist

Whether it’s helping parents to reduce anxiety or discomfort for their child or bringing a sense of calm to families, there have been many occasions when Jane has gone the extra mile in her role. As well as her expertise in complementary therapies, Jane’s kindness and empathy are highlighted time and time again. One parent said: “I don’t think I would have got through some of my toughest days without Jane’s help.”

Alex, Therapeutic Support Worker

Alex was a finalist at Skills for Health’s Our Health Heroes Awards and received an outpouring of support from grateful families. Whether it’s bringing parents together for relaxed days out, organising fun for siblings, leading therapeutic groups or contributing to staff training, the recurring theme was Alex’s “big heart” and ability to tune into the needs of families in every situation.

Beth, Psychologist

Beth has supported many families, helping them to cope with grief, fear and overwhelming situations. One bereaved mum told us that Beth “changed her life” by helping her to navigate difficult emotional challenges with resilience. She described Beth as “amazing” and said that she would always be grateful that Claire House brought them together.

Molly, Physiotherapist

Molly’s ‘Move it With Molly’ sessions have reached legendary status among Claire House families. Having been described as “amazing” on numerous occasions by parents, Molly is known for her fun and compassionate approach to supporting children, families and colleagues. One grateful mum praised Molly for teaching her some stretching exercises, which have made a big difference to how she cares for her son at home.

the hospice means everything to our family

mum emma jack with faith and sister

Twenty-two-year-old Jack lives with complex medical needs that require round-the-clock care. His mum Emma shares how the hospice has become their sanctuary, helping them rest, recharge and feel truly supported. “When Jack smiles, it lights up the whole room. “He may not be able to speak or walk, but he expresses happiness in the most powerful way - through his eyes. His happiness shines through his beaming eyes and unmistakeable grin when he’s somewhere he feels safe. “One of those places is Claire House Children’s Hospice,” shares Jack’s mum Emma. Jack was born with cerebral palsy caused by a lack of oxygen during birth. He also has epilepsy, a tracheostomy, and is visually impaired. “It was a massive shock to hear my child was going to be severely disabled. He wasn’t going to be able to talk or walk or do anything by himself. “Jack was really poorly when he was young but survived against the odds and has got stronger.” He’s had spinal rods fitted, undergone hip surgery, and is fed through a tube because he can’t swallow properly. Jack’s conditions mean he needs two carers at all times. “Jack is happy and content but caring for him is a lot of work. He needs support 24/7,” says Emma. “Without Claire House, I dread to think how we’d have coped.” Claire House has been part of Jack’s life for over a decade. The family were referred when hospital admissions and sleepless nights became too much. “I was getting absolutely no sleep, surviving on zero. At first, I was terrified of anyone looking after him, but they helped us massively.” Since then, the hospice has become their lifeline – a safe, welcoming place where Jack is cared for by people who know him well. “When Jack used to have respite, we would also stay over,” Emma remembers. “He’d be looked after downstairs in the

“We see so many children who need this support. If Claire House had a full hospice in Liverpool, more families could get help close to home.”

£35

could fund an hour of 1:1 specialist care for a child or young adult

re jack at clai

pool house liver

Wirral hospice while we had our own room upstairs. I could check on him but also sleep. That meant everything.” These days, Jack comes for daycare, enjoying sensory therapies, music, hydrotherapy and, most of all, pampering. “He loves having his hair dried and being massaged,” Emma smiles. “He adores the Wirral hydrotherapy pool and being surrounded by familiar voices.” Jack’s sisters, Ava and Faith, also receive support from Claire House. “I worried about my eldest daughter, Ava. She saw how sick Jack was and spent so much time in hospital. Claire House showed her there were other families going through the same thing. “The girls now come to family events and spend time with children like them,” says Emma. “They get lots of attention, which can be a challenge at home as Jack requires constant care. Claire House makes them feel included. It’s not just for Jack - it’s for all of us.” When Jack comes for day care, he visits Claire House Liverpool in West Derby. Having a site much closer than the Wirral makes a huge difference.

“West Derby is so close to Alder Hey and just down the road from our home in Woolton. Having him nearby brings real peace of mind.” Whilst Claire House offers day care there, the charity hopes to build a full hospice on the site to provide 24/7 care like Jack needs, subject to funding. For Emma, a full hospice in Liverpool would mean “everything.” “We see so many children who need this support. If Claire House had a full hospice in Liverpool, more families could get help close to home.” After more than a decade of support, Claire House holds a special place in the family’s hearts. They’ve even helped support the charity, most recently as VIP guests opening the new Stonedale shop in Liverpool. “What makes Claire House so special,” says Emma, “is that it doesn’t feel like a hospice. It’s warm, friendly and calm. It feels like a home from home.” Jack’s family are clear: “Claire House gives us life back. They provide rest, support, joy and laughter - we’d be lost without them.”

news

match day heroes come together for claire house

A football tournament organised by a Liverpool family raised almost £5,000 for Claire House. Lynsay Murphy organised the Noah Murphy Cup in memory of her little boy who died at just 15 days old after being born prematurely. The family wanted to celebrate Noah’s life and raise funds for Claire House, who supported them throughout their difficult journey. The tournament was inspired by Noah’s big brother who loves football. Jacob was delighted to win the ‘Best Big Brother’ cup on the day, which saw a host of young footballers compete for medals and trophies. With face painting, sponsorship from businesses and Everton and Liverpool FC raffle prizes, it was a day to remember and a special tribute to baby Noah.

e ‘best jacob lifts th p big brother’ cu

running for everlyn

Parents Richard and Sarah Lamb honoured baby Everlyn by completing the London Marathon, raising £9,000 across a series of running challenges for Claire House. Everlyn died aged seven days after a severe HIE brain injury, with the family supported by Claire House. “Claire House gave us the most precious memories as a family,” said Rich. “They cared for Everlyn perfectly and continue to support us.” The couple took on a series of fundraising events, with dad Rich running the 26.2 miles in full Claire Bear costume! They also took part in the Claire Bear 3K, Santa Dash, Liverpool Half Marathon and the Mersey Tunnel 10K. “We wanted to give back in Everlyn’s name,” he added. Well done team!

runners rich and sarah

sibling ambassadors are making an impact

A group of inspiring role models are using their own experiences to support, empower and uplift other young people at Claire House. From helping at events to creating safe spaces where brothers and sisters can connect, our Sibling Ambassadors are bringing understanding, compassion and hope to other siblings going through a similar journey. Amy, 25, is one of the volunteers making a difference. She explained: “Not many people understand what it’s like having a sibling with a life-limiting condition, but Claire House will always be the lighthouse in the storm for children, parents and siblings. To be a small part of that makes me so happy, knowing I can now be the support that I once needed for someone else.”

a special win in adam’s memory

Adam’s family continued going the extra mile for the hospice, winning £1,000 on the Claire House Lottery during the week they marked 10 years without him. Friendly and chatty, Adam was devoted to family and friends. After being diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma at 15, Claire House supported him in the Butterfly Suite. “Claire House gave Adam an enormous amount of dignity at the end,” said his dad, Richard. “It felt special to win in the week of his anniversary.” After Adam’s death aged 17, the team helped the family with funeral planning, counselling and bereavement groups. Mum Caroline added: “Because all our family benefited, we split the money five ways, with Adam’s share going back to this fabulous charity.”

dors sibling ambassa tic with therapeu er alex support work

school boys rally for claire house

Wirral Grammar School for Boys put their school values into action, raising an impressive amount of money for Claire House. With over £7,750 raised, students have organised lots of events and challenges to make a difference. Throwing wet sponges at teachers was one of the highlights, bringing lots of entertainment!

adam and his

family

“We are incredibly proud of our students, who have embraced every fundraising opportunity with enthusiasm, generosity and compassion. They should be immensely proud of the difference they are making.” wirral grammar backs claire house

James Hughes, Head of Personal Development, said: “Claire House is a charity that is very close to the hearts of our school community. The support it provides to children and families is truly inspirational.

hospice rocky road At Claire House, there’s always a sweet treat that brings people together, and our rocky road is a clear favourite. For the families we support, it’s often the little things that mean the most - a quiet five minutes, a warm drink, and something indulgent to enjoy alongside it. Made in our hospice kitchen, this chocolatey classic is loved by families and staff alike. Children, like happy Joshua pictured here, often get stuck in too, helping to mix and stir! These no-bake squares are a simple way to add a moment of joy to the day. We’re sharing our recipe so you can create your own at home and enjoy a little piece of Claire House wherever you are. Makes: 12 Prep time: 15 mins

1. Grease and line an 18cm tin with baking paper.

Ingredients:

2. Lightly crush the biscuits with a rolling pin, breaking them into a mix of chunky and crumbly pieces, then set aside.

200g digestive biscuits 135g butter 200g milk or dark chocolate

3. Gently melt the butter, chocolate and golden syrup in a saucepan over a low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from the heat and leave to cool.

100g mini marshmallows

4. Add the marshmallows, crushed biscuits, and any extra ingredients to the melted mixture, then stir well until everything is completely covered.

Optional ingredient ideas up to 100g: popcorn, honeycomb and raisins.

5. Tip the mixture into the lined baking tin and spread it gently into the corners. Chill for at least two hours before cutting into finger-sized pieces.

3tbsp golden syrup

joshua baking in the

hospice

fun and games ?

word search

Hidden in the grid are 10 words or phrases connected to Claire House. Can you locate them all? (Remember to look horizontally, vertically and diagonally) Y Q E

I H G B N W Y B B L

C D C M A B H O S P

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F X C F E Q W A M S B Z H E B A L

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Y A M T A O E O V H C V V K D A O

EXTRAMILE

HOSPICE

WIRRAL

LIVERPOOL

SUPPORTERS

CARE

FAMILY

MEMORIES

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I Q S Y L R F G L K E K

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find them all!

P A J O R Y T X B

U X L X D M J I

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10. TOGETHER

23 WORDSEARCH Y Q E

I H G B N W Y B B L

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F X C F E Q W A M S B Z H E B A L

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DINGBATS

1. Ready, steady, go! 2. Bus stop 3. Lunch break

RIDDLE

1. A map 2. Shoes 3. Extra mile

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H Q E W B H H W O E C T Z T H W L

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Riddle 3: I can be steps, distance or a helpful deed, I can happen when you do more than you need. It’s a different journey that could take a while or added effort known as going the...

R R A L

J A V N D D J G Y V A Z O B T N U

P O G S T C F A M I

L Y A J A E

X C H Y P G D S L M W O E Y L R M D I D D C T K U M G W D A T V P S Y B

dingbat 3 Riddle 2 We journey together, a matching set. Where one goes, the other’s sure to get. What are we? Riddle 1 I have cities but no houses, forests but no trees, and water but no fish. What am I? Can you think creatively to solve these journey-themed riddles? See how many you can crack without peeking at the answers!

riddle me this!

dingbat 2

STEADY GO dingbat 1

Say what you see! Can you identify the hidden catchphrases in these dingbat puzzles?

dingbats

The Extra Mile Counts Go the extra mile by donating quality items to your local Claire House shop. You can help to ensure we continue providing essential support to the children and young adults who need us.

Find your local Claire House shop

Registered Charity No. 1004058

Company No. 02620240