Huge campaign saves Liverpool baby hospice Zoe's Place
The star-studded appeal has secured the future of the charity on Merseyside
Last updated 8th Nov 2024
A huge campaign backed by thousands of people on Merseyside has managed to save much-loved Liverpool children's hospice Zoe's Place.
The charity, which provides palliative and end-of-life care for children, warned it could close for good at the end of the month, after failing to secure funding for a new premises.
However, stars, businesses and people from all over the country stepped in to help, managing to raise £5 million in just four weeks.
Among those to donate were Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold, comedian John Bishop and UFC champion Paddy 'The Baddy' Pimblett.
The money will be used to fund a new site for Zoe's Place, close to its current home on Yew Tree Lane in West Derby.
Michelle Wright, Head of Care, said: “Words cannot express how I feel.
"The fact that we can continue to support our children and families means everything and is all every member of the team has wanted to do.
"The support from the clinical team, fundraising, and the city of Liverpool and beyond has been overwhelming.
"We are all proud to be from Liverpool and we will embrace the challenge of a new hospice, with the spirit and team work we have shown over the last few weeks.
"We look forward to supporting many more future families in our new home."
MP Ian Byrne said: "Ever since that initial call to arms, the response from across the city and beyond has been incredible.
"I knew right from the start that, with the backing of our fantastic local community, we could reach this target for the hospice, the wonderful staff, children and families."