Children's Hospice Faces £10M Funding Gap for Expansion

Claire House Children's Hospice is urgently appealing for public donations to bridge a £10 million funding gap required for its expansion project. The charity is developing a new campus at the former Carmelite monastery in West Derby, Liverpool, with plans to open in summer 2029. This expansion is crucial for doubling the number of children the hospice can assist annually, increasing capacity from 500 to 1000.

The new facility will include specialized end-of-life care bedrooms and respite rooms for children and young adults. Notably, it will establish Liverpool's first 24/7 end-of-life care service, addressing a significant unmet need. The project also incorporates family suites for private time after a child's passing and recreational facilities like a hydrotherapy pool.

Chief executive David Pastor stated the charity is taking a calculated risk by proceeding with construction before all funds are secured. He emphasized the importance of providing Liverpool's children and families with equitable access to hospice care, similar to the support already available on the Wirral. The original monastery building will be repurposed for administrative and training purposes.