Families being supported by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) enjoyed a day of sun, sea and sand during a fun-packed trip to Felixstowe.
Twenty-one people representing seven families enjoyed a relaxing, fully inclusive experience together, joining staff and volunteers from The Treehouse.
They based themselves at The Hut – a facility for charity and community groups, provided by the Felixstowe Old Peoples Welfare Association.
Children receiving care were able to dip their toes in the water with support from EACH’s Physical Therapies team, using beach wheelchairs provided by East Suffolk Council.
Joined by their parents and siblings, who loved building sandcastles and playing on the beach, they also tucked into a selection of homemade cakes and treats provided by the hospice’s Facilities team.
One parent, attending their first beach day, described the experience as ‘relaxing’ and said they welcomed the opportunity to chat with other mums and dads.
Another said: “It’s hard to navigate outings with the stress of parking, packing and finding a suitable venue. Here, you can just relax and enjoy everything.”
Kelly Evans, EACH’s Groups and Events Co-ordinator at The Treehouse, said it was a ‘treasured’ occasion and extended her thanks to the Felixstowe community.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the wonderful support of our community, which helps make special occasions like this possible,” she said.
“This much-loved event continues to create special memories and accessible experiences, bringing families together, while a heartfelt thank you goes to our amazing volunteers, whose support and refreshments helped make the day so enjoyable for everyone.”
Meanwhile, the following day, 18 siblings – bereaved children and those with a brother or sister receiving care – came together for a day of fun at The Treehouse.
Based in the shady hospice grounds, what started with water games turned into a full-blown water fight, and the children also spent time doing crafts, enjoying refreshments, playing games and building with Lego.
Pictures: Grace McGill/EACH
