Youngsters who are being supported by the Family Support Team at Nightingale House Hospice have been treated to a fun day out at Alton Towers. 

The children were accompanied on the theme park trip by staff and family members, and everyone had a fun – but tiring – day!

There was plenty of excitement as the coach left the hospice at 8am with 42 day-trippers on board.

Family Support lead Jackie Rowley said: “Everyone had such a lovely time. It was a long day and we were all very tired at the end of it but it was great to get together and see youngsters enjoying each other’s company. 

“The families were given photo passes so that they could keep pictures of a special day forever.”

The Family Support Team at Nightingale House Hospice offers a broad range of services to help people of all ages at what can be a very challenging time.

Bereavement support is offered to children and young people under the age of 18, with no prior connection with Nightingale House Hospice required.

As part of their service to help children the Family Support Team offers woodland wellbeing days and a host of activities and outings. 

Jackie added: “Bereavement causes a varied amount of pressure on families, that could be emotional, practical and financial.

“So to be able to host this day for people in that situation can offer an opportunity they would perhaps would not have had. The support and funding we receive is hugely beneficial to achieving this. 

“An activity like this can offer a sense of belonging and diminish feelings of isolation for a child who is facing a difficult time.

“We would like to thank Pats Coaches and Alton Towers for their help in putting a lovely day together.”

Those who joined on the day were full of praise for the team, with one saying: “Thank you so much for today, I really enjoyed myself, I thought it was really fun.”

To access help from the Family Support Team at Nightingale House contact Patient Flow Via Reception on 01978 316800 or email nightingalehousereferrals@wales.nhs.uk