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Virtual Shine – Summer 2024

In this virtual edition of Shine Magazine we are proud to share the story of Vanessa and her family as they have adapted to her condition with our support. We also take a look at a few of our new green initiatives, and share some results of our new strategy one year on.

Welcome from Spencer – Distribution Manager

“Throughout my career, I have always looked for roles where I can directly or indirectly help organisations grow and develop. Since joining Shooting Star, my goal is to constantly do just that, using my knowledge in logistics and warehousing. It has been great to assist in the charity’s growth. The distribution centre acts as a storage facility for our shops but also a donation hub for the local community. This is a great combination as it means our wonderful shops have a constant flow of new stock to raise money for the charity, ensuring children and families, like Vanessa’s, receive the crucial support we provide. Thank you to Vanessa’s parents, for sharing their journey with us for this edition of Shine.”

Latest news

New bereavement service has launched

As part of our new strategy to reach every family when they need us, families of babies or children who have died suddenly, and not just those previously known to the charity, can now access our comprehensive and tailored bereavement care to help cope with the death of a child.

For Every Family update

Last year we unveiled our 2023-2026 strategy, For Every Family, with the ambition to help every child and family who need us. We have made significant inroads in achieving this ambition over the past year and wanted to share a few highlights of our work with you, our incredible supporters, because none of this would have been possible without your unwavering support.

Fab family fundraisers head for £100,000

Saturday 8 June 2024 marks a very special day for Jane and her family, as they’ll be celebrating what would have been their son Jack’s 21st birthday. On this milestone date, family and friends will be taking on their latest fundraiser in memory of Jack by walking a huge 21km, with the hopes they’ll push the total cash they’ve collectively raised north of £100,000.

Vanessa's story

While laying on her mother’s lap, just a month after she was born, Vanessa started foaming at the mouth and shaking. Her parents, Praveen and Natalja, immediately called 999 and drove their daughter to the hospital, unknowingly embarking on a journey that would change their lives forever.

Features

Aerial photos of Christopher's hospice with new solar panels on its roof.

A look inside sustainability

Caring for the children and families we support is at the heart of everything we do, but we know that we can only continue to provide care long into the future by also caring for our planet. That’s why we’re dedicated to minimising our carbon and environmental footprint, with a range of new initiatives.

A day in the life challenge events

As part of our Challenge Events team, Hannah organises a range of events, from running to cycling and even skydiving! These activities often test participants physical and mental endurance, all while helping children and families we support, who face the unimaginable.

Get involved

Spread the cheer, become a volunteer

We rely heavily on the invaluable contributions of our fantastic group of volunteers. Each person plays a crucial role within the charity, whether it’s in our retail shops, lending a helping hand at our hospices, or at our events. We are always looking for more volunteers, so why not sign up this year!

Walk among the blooms at Christopher's

We are opening our garden at Christopher’s once again with the National Garden Scheme for the local community to enjoy. You are invited to come and explore the space that’s been specifically designed with the needs of the children in mind, from adapted play equipment and sensory trails to open areas for remembrance and reflection.

Give families precious memories through your will

A gift in your will can play a crucial role in making every moment count for babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions, and their families.

We need your pre-loved items

Our charity shops are always needing quality pre-loved items. Take a look at our retail wish list and see what items we love.

Work with us

At Shooting Star Children’s Hospices, we pride ourselves in providing outstanding and compassionate care. Discover our current roles.

Copies of Shine Magazine

Print edition

If you’d like to receive the printed version of Shine magazine, which comes out twice a year, these are sent to everyone who has made a donation within the last 12 months, and opted in to receiving post.