Why B&M support Claire House

 As a family-run business, giving back to local charities is something close to our heart here at B&M. Claire House is a hospice for children and young people with life limiting conditions that we are particularly passionate about due to its roots in Merseyside.

So, why do B&M support Claire House?

Last week, some B&M representatives took a tour of the new facilities that have opened recently at Claire House to see where donations go to change the lives of the young people visiting the hospice.

We entered into a spacious and calming reception area, newly extended to allow plenty of space for wheelchair access and whole families checking in.

Firstly, we were shown examples of bedrooms: while featuring speciality beds and hoists, the rooms are beautifully decorated for that ‘home away from home’ feel. Amenities such as motion sensor doors and taps mean that visitors can be as independent as possible.We were also shown some larger bedrooms that had been extended using a government-funded grant.

Claire House takes children from birth to 23 years of age and we were shown rooms to cater for each age range. From a craft room to a large living area with a jukebox and DVD players, the 18+ visitors have their own den which even includes a bar.

Some of the most amazing rooms included the sensory room (filled with colours and lights) and the hydrotherapy pool where children are able to play with their siblings or even take their
first few steps.

While Claire House seems like such a happy environment to be in, there were sobering moments during our tour. Two beautiful ‘Butterfly Suites’ and a tranquil garden were situated towards the quieter end of the hospice: each suite was composed of two rooms. After a child passes away, they are moved down to this suite so, if their family wishes, they can spend time with them and
make funeral arrangements in a peaceful environment away from home. This was very emotional to see but also made us realise just how much Claire House do for the families as well as the young people attending. We were also shown the family rooms where parents of children can stay over with them but still safe in the knowledge that their child is receiving the best possible care.

The tour helped to show B&M how valuable the money we raise for them is and spurred us on as a company to continue our efforts to raise £10,000 for Claire House in 2014.