AUTUMN has officially arrived at St Clare Hospice as it prepares to host its first-ever family-friendly Pumpkin Party this October.

Taking place at the Hastingwood-based hospice on Saturday 28th October, there will be a host of autumn-inspired activities, including arts and crafts and party games, all led by St Clare’s Patient and Family Support team.

Project manager Chloe Rich said: “We are really looking forward to hosting our first-ever Pumpkin Party here at the Hospice. We have a whole afternoon of fun seasonal activities planned, from making wreaths and lanterns, to decorating chocolate apples and donut bobbing, as well as pumpkin carving, of course!

“We will also be serving light refreshments perfect for chilly autumn days, including hot dogs, hot chocolate and delicious cakes.”

The event is being held from 1pm until 4pm and is aimed at supporting bereaved children, or children who have a relative or friend who is living with a life-limiting illness. This could be a parent, sibling, grandparent, auntie or uncle, friend, classmate or anyone else who is important to them, whether they have previously accessed St Clare’s support or not.

Chloe added: “Although St Clare is an adult hospice, not many people realise that our support extends to the whole family. This includes children and young people who have been impacted by the loss of someone they love or have someone close to them who has been diagnosed with a terminal or life-limiting illness.

“We know from experience that engaging children in creative activities can allow them to express and process their thoughts, feelings and emotions in ways that go beyond words in a safe and supportive space.”

“Our Pumpkin Party is also an opportunity to help children to see that they are not alone and there are other people their age who are also going through something similar. Being surrounded by others with a shared experience of grief can help them feel understood and less alone.”

No prior connection to St Clare Hospice is necessary to attend the Pumpkin Party. It is free to attend, however spaces are limited so booking is essential.

You can book online by visiting www.stclarehospice.org.uk/event/pumpkin-party. Alternatively, for more information, call 01279 773762 or email [email protected].