An afternoon of sunshine and support: Christopher’s opens for the National Garden Scheme
On Sunday, with the sun shining and the flowers in full bloom, more than 70 visitors came along to our Guildford hospice, Christopher’s, as we opened for the National Garden Scheme.
Visitors soaked up the peaceful atmosphere, enjoying a slice (or two!) of homemade cake, and finding out more about the amazing work we do for families who have a baby, child or young person with life-limiting condition, or who have been bereaved.
This was our third opening, and we’re delighted to say it was our most successful. The event had a real community feel as we welcomed supported families, friends and family of staff and volunteers and members of our local community.
The National Garden Scheme have supported Hospice UK since 1996, donating over £7 million across the partnership. In November 2024, the National Garden Scheme donated a further £450,000.
Interim Ward Manager, Louise Turpin, says, “It was lovely to welcome visitors to the hospice garden, it’s a nice gentle way to introduce the public to what we do and have a chat over cake in the garden. So many people commented on how calm it was, but also how child-friendly and colourful it was at the same time. It was nice to see families, staff and locals at the event, and the children staying also came and joined as the sun was shining.”
A huge thank you to all the volunteers and staff who helped to make the day possible. We’re always in need of volunteers to help support us in the hospices, at events and our shops – find out more and available roles on our Volunteers page.
