People living in Edinburgh are encouraged to put the kettle on next month and host an afternoon tea to raise funds for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).
CHAS is calling on individuals, workplaces, schools and community groups to organise events featuring tea, coffee and sweet treats in aid of its More Than A Hospice appeal.
The charity provides support to children with life-shortening conditions and their families across Scotland, including through outreach services in every local authority area and a joint CHAS and NHS specialist team at each of Scotland’s children’s hospitals, including Edinburgh.
Money raised through the afternoon teas will support CHAS’s national appeal, which aims to refurbish its Rachel House hospice in Kinross and Robin House in Balloch, while expanding palliative care support for families across the country.
Laura Falconer, from Livingston, whose daughter Nevayah-Rose receives support from Rachel House, said the hospice gives parents a rare opportunity to relax while their children are being cared for.
She said: “Finding time at home to sit and have a hot drink can be tricky, but when we’re at Rachel House and the kids are off playing with other families or staff, we as parents can take that well-needed time to relax, have a hot drink or two and a cheeky wee cake.
“We also get to have a good natter with other parents and staff, something we don’t often get the chance to do.”
Louise Swann, CHAS Mass Participation Events Manager, said the fundraising events could be held in homes, workplaces, schools or community venues.
She said: “Our afternoon tea events are a fantastic way for people to come together, have fun and support CHAS.
“To help organisers create a memorable event, we’ve developed a range of free resources, including recipes, games and fundraising materials.
“Every donation raised will support our More Than a Hospice Appeal, helping us improve our hospices and expand the care we provide to children and families across Scotland.”
CHAS provides clinical, emotional and practical support from the point a child is diagnosed with a life-shortening condition, as well as respite, end-of-life and bereavement care for families.
Those wishing to host an Afternoon Tea for CHAS this October can sign up through the charity’s website.
