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Spring Appeal

When goodbye comes too soon, give families the gift of time - time to hold, to grieve and to say goodbye in their own way.
A child in a blue shirt and yellow shorts on a boat smiling towards the camera with a thumbs up
Joshua and his parents at the beach

Joshua's story

For families who have to say goodbye to their child too soon, every moment together matters.

With your support, we can give families the chance to spend precious time with their child after they've died, in one of our bereavement suites.

Joshua was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer and sadly died just four days before his 13th birthday. Demelza’s bereavement suite gave Joshua’s parents, Donna and Duncan, the chance to be with him on this birthday and say goodbye in their own time.

“It’s a place no child should need, but we are incredibly grateful that it was there for us at the worst time of our lives.” 

Joshua giving a thumbs up

How your donation helps

Your donation ensures families can access our bereavement suites where they can spend precious, uninterrupted time with their child after death. 

These calm and comforting environments allow loved ones to say their goodbyes with the support of our care and bereavement teams.

Free from the pressures of a hospital setting, families are given the privacy and time they need to grieve at their own pace, surrounded by the care they deserve.

By donating today, you can help us be there for more families like Joshua’s, giving them a dedicated space to say goodbye.

Donate to your local children's hospice today

Your generosity helps provide expert clinical care, emotional support and practical help during the most challenging times. By donating to Demelza today, you can help to give families time, space and compassion when it matters most.

More ways to make a difference this spring

Enter the Thumbs Up Raffle

WIN £5,000 and support children’s hospice care.

Every ticket helps fund Demelza’s specialist care for children with serious or life‑limiting conditions. With 84% of our work community‑funded, your entry makes a real difference.

Buy a Demelza scratch card

Give a gift that gives back.

Pick up a Demelza charity scratch card from your nearest shop and support children and families while giving someone a fun surprise.

Spring fundraising ideas

Fundraise your way this spring.

From hosting an Easter Egg hunt to taking part in community events, your creativity helps bring joy and support to families.