Children’s Family Christmas Event 2023

We didn’t need to dream of a ‘White Christmas’ this weekend at our Children’s Family Christmas Event – with snow indoors and out!

Our children and their families braved the snowy conditions to enjoy a stocking-load of fun in our Christmas photo booth and making gingerbread houses and Christmas crafts galore.

They even got to visit Santa, Mrs Claus and their Elf in a special grotto – complete with indoor snow machine.

Gareth has been coming to us for monthly short breaks for over 10 years. Mum, Clodagh, said: “Christmas parties usually aren’t set up for children like mine so it’s just lovely to see Gareth having so much fun and celebrating with his friends.”

Added entertainment was provided by Puppetship who delighted the audience with their seasonal story about odd socks.

Alison McGowan, Creative Director at Puppetship, said: “We wanted to create a friendly, festive show that everyone could get involved in and would add to the Christmas excitement.”

A huge thank you goes to James Kyle from Rathbones Group PLC who, through the Rathbones Group Foundation, has funded our Children’s Christmas activities this year. He joined in the festive fun on Saturday, along with his daughters.

He said: “I’ve known St Oswald’s Hospice for more than 20 years and it’s amazing to see how it’s got bigger and better. This is the first time I’ve been to the Children’s Christmas party; it’s a lovely atmosphere and we’re so happy to support it.”

Holly Smith, Acting Matron of our Children and Young Adults Service, added: “It’s been another fantastic Christmas event for everyone involved, and the snow outside only added to the festive spirit!”

Thanks also goes to dad, Tom Hibberd, for his beautiful photography on the day.