West Sussex children's hospice releases festive video in run up to Christmas
Chestnut Tree House's care team use Makaton to sign 'Santa Claus is coming to town'
A West Sussex based children's hospice has marked the countdown to Christmas by releasing a festive video.
It features members of the Chestnut Tree House care team Makaton signing, while one of the charity's ambassadors, Chesney Hawkes, plays the piano and sings 'Santa Claus is coming to town'.
A spokesperson for Chestnut Tree House's care team said:
"We may not be able to see all our children and families in the run-up to Christmas this year, but we want you to know that we are thinking of you and look forward to being able to see you again soon."
The children's hospice, which is based near Arundel, had to close for routine respite breaks and day care services during the COVID-19 pandemic, in line with government guidelines.
But, they continued providing respite care for exceptional circumstances, end of life care and bereavement support.
The team also stayed in contact with the children and families they care for, offering regular telephone support and community visits (in full PPE and fully risk-assessed) to those who were still happy to receive them.
The hospice's Activity Team also delivered tailored activity packs to families at home and hosted singing and storytelling sessions via video.
Chestnut Tree House have since been able to welcome families back to the hospice for day care sessions and started to book routine respite stays for families who need them.
They continue to provide telephone support and are increasing the number of home visits and counselling sessions.