A children’s hospice forced to close its gardens after a huge storm can now repair the damage thanks to a surprise donation.
Last month, Storm Eowyn caused more than £60,000 in damage at Robin House in Balloch, West Dunbartonshire, leaving the gardens unsafe to use.
While the main hospice buildings were unscathed, 90mph winds uprooted mature trees, destroyed fences, damaged drainage and wrecked the garden’s polytunnel cover and frame beyond rescue.
This week, as the clean-up is almost complete, families, staff, and volunteers received an award of £150,000 from the Postcode Community Trust.
They have been supported by West Dunbartonshire Council’s Green-spaces team, which has helped with staff and free skips to remove debris.
Robin House is one of two hospices serving Scotland run by the charity Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).
Children’s Hospices Across ScotlandCHAS CEO Rami Okasha said: “At Robin House our garden is so important to the ongoing care for the children and families we support.
“This fantastic funding, made thanks to the generosity of players of People’s Postcode Lottery, will make a huge difference to Robin House, ensuring we can fix the garden and so much more.”
“Our garden is a special place and often offers the only active, accessible outdoor space our families can enjoy and explore safely.
“It also holds many precious memories for families and offers a quiet sanctuary for parents, siblings and loved ones.”
The funding comes from a Balloch postcode winning the lottery’s Millionaire Street prize on Saturday, February 15.
Fifteen neighbours of Inchfad Road, located just a few hundred yards from the hospice, shared £1m at the weekend.
Laura Chow, head of charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “CHAS provides incredible care and support for children and their families in Scotland during some of the most challenging times in their lives.
“That care is delivered by a dedicated network of staff and volunteers, and we are delighted that our players are helping ensure these vital services can continue to make a difference here at Robin House.”
Mr Okasha added: “We know how well-loved Robin House is from the local support we have received. Our gardens are an essential part of the care and wellbeing for our families.
“Each week in Scotland, three children die from an incurable condition, and many children with incurable conditions enjoy respite and end-of-life care with CHAS in Robin House.
“No one should have to face the death of a child alone. All fundraising support makes a huge difference.”
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