A celebration at Clifton Observatory

08 January 2020 chsw Fundraising

Paul-Courtney-with-Dom-Greensmith-and-supporters

Friends and supporters of Children’s Hospice South West gathered together in December to celebrate a year of great fundraising for Charlton Farm children’s hospice. Music was a core theme of the evening with Somerset-based

musician and Reef drummer, Dom Greensmith and his band delighting guests at the Clifton Observatory with an exclusive performance.

Dom was inspired to support the work of CHSW after visiting Charlton Farm earlier this year. He said: “As a dad of five children, I am utterly humbled by the work of Children’s Hospice South West. Growing up in the Westcountry I’ve always been aware of their incredible support for families but having visited Charlton Farm I have been inspired to help them support even more families in the future.”

In addition to being treated to exclusive music, individual supporters, representatives from companies, charitable trusts and local groups also heard from Paul Morgans Evans, CHSW Music Therapist based at Charlton Farm. Paul shared stories of how music is used across the hospice sites to aid communication, provide vital therapy and give families treasured memories to cherish. As Paul told guests on the evening: “Many of the children who I see at Charlton Farm are non-verbal, which means they may find it very difficult to communicate their thoughts and feelings. Music therapy is able to give a voice to these children, to build a musical relationship and enables them to express their feelings and interact with family members in a different way through bespoke musical interactions.”

CHSW Director of Fundraising, Paul Courtney said: “The evening was a wonderful opportunity for us to say a huge thank you to people who have supported our work in so many wonderful ways in 2019. We rely on the generosity and dedication of our supporters and friends right across the region throughout the year - without them we couldn’t be there for families when they need us most. The evening allowed us to celebrate what their kindness has made possible.”

Photo Credit: Dave Pratt Photography