Press Releases

Ellie's Haven hospice plans reconsidered. Now to become a holiday haven for special children and their families

Date: 24th September 2007

The founders and committee of Ellie’s Haven have decided to reconsider their plans to build a children’s hospice in Cornwall and to go forward with a holiday haven.

The news was announced this morning by the founders, Julie and Nigel Libby, at a meeting in Saltash with the Health Commissioner for Devon and Cornwall, the Primary Care Trust chairman for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Andrew Williamson, and representatives of the Association of Children's Hospices.

Ellie's Haven was set up by Julie and Nigel who wanted to build a hospice near Looe, and was named after their terminally-ill daughter.

But soon after their own plans were announced this summer, the Children's Hospice South West announced their plans for a £5 million hospice in the county.

The Libbys were understandably concerned that two organisations would be competing for funds while the important issue was providing a children's hospice in the county. They decided, with the full support of their committee, that working with Children's Hospice South West was not practicable, so to leave the way clear they have decided on a different direction.

Ellie's Haven will be a much-needed facility to provide children with life-limiting and life threatening illnesses, and children with long term illnesses, together with their families, short-term, non-medical holiday breaks.

Nigel Libby said: “As part of our research and feasibility study, we have spoken with many families and health professionals this summer. They have all expressed that there is an absolute need for this kind of special facility. Naturally, we are disappointed in some ways at having to reconsider our hospice plans, but we strongly believe this is a move for the better, as the county will have two new facilities.

"Ellie's Haven will now aim to bring a feeling of normality to children and parents in these situations. It will be a chance for them to spend time together in wonderful surroundings – a home from home.

"We also want to provide a service to bereaved parents, to help them in their times of great sorrow."

Ellie's Haven plans to work in partnership with local businesses, many of which have given enthusiastic backing to their non-medical holiday haven plans.

"We feel this is the best way to go,” said Mr Libby. “This way Cornwall will get its hospice and will also get a great facility to help children and their families spend time together when they need it."

NOTES TO EDITORS

Ellie's Haven is a company limited by guarantee, and is working to become a registered charity.

Release issued by pr dogs limited, public relations consultants, on behalf of Ellie’s Haven, which is a pro bono client assisted under ProHelp, part of Business in the Community.

For further information contact John Taynton of pr dogs on 01822 600100 or 07843 436526 (mobile) or email john.taynton@prdogs.com