Latest News

Hundreds of people are set to take to the streets of Derby this month, as Treetops Hospice's annual Moonlight Walk returns to raise vital funds for local hospice care. Taking place at Derby Market Hall from 5pm on Friday 18 September, participants will choose between a 6km or 11km route, walking in memory of loved ones and in support of the specialist care Treetops provides to local families. This year's event promises a lively and uplifting atmosphere with a country and western theme, and a refreshed programme of entertainment, including choirs, drummers and circus performers. The event has been made possible through the support of a range of local suppliers and businesses, many of which have provided heavily discounted or free services to help bring the community fundraiser to life. Leading the pre-walk warm-up is Derby-based organisation Let's Get Active UK, which delivers fitness classes for people of all ages and abilities in community halls and care homes across the region. Sarah Ballin, Director at Let’s Get Active UK, will be volunteering her time to lead the warm-up, and said: “I wanted to support Treetops Hospice as they have worked closely with our care home, Coxbench Hall, over the years. “Treetops’ nurses also supported us when my father died in September 2024, which was so important to us as a family, so we’ve fundraised for Treetops ever since. ”Supporting the Moonlight Walk is a privilege and being able to conduct the warm-up means so much to me. I can’t guarantee I won’t shed a tear, but it’s all worth it for such an amazing charity.” Derby Market Hall has been chosen as the event venue for the second consecutive year, further strengthening its partnership with the local charity. Cllr Gurkiran Kaur, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for City Centre, Culture and Tourism, said: "We’re thrilled to welcome back the Treetops Hospice Moonlight Walk to the Market Hall for a second year – it will be a fantastic night. “Treetops do such vital work for local families when they need it most. We’re proud to play our part in helping them raise the crucial funds needed to continue supporting our community." Walk participants will also be able to enjoy games and activities provided throughout the Market Hall by local family-run events company Team T Events, which has partnered with Treetops Hospice for the past two years, offering its services free of charge. Rosie Tomlinson, Director at Team T Events, said: “Treetops Hospice provides such an important service to people and their families at some of the most difficult times in their lives, so we’re incredibly proud to support the Moonlight Walk for another year. “At Team T Events, supporting our local community is something that’s really important to us and we couldn’t think of a better event to be part of.” As a part-time Registered Nurse, Team T founder Rosie also has first-hand experience of working alongside palliative care teams and has seen the “incredibly positive impact” they have on patients and their families. The walk is the hospice’s largest fundraising event of the year, bringing the community together to celebrate loved ones while raising money to help the charity continue providing its vital services across southern and central Derbyshire. [button url="https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/event/moonlight-walk/" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]Take part in the Moonlight Walk[/button]

Amy and Becky will join hundreds of supporters at Treetops Hospice's Moonlight Walk in Derby this September, walking in memory of their dad, Steve. The twin sisters, who grew up in Allestree, are raising funds to give back to the hospice which supported their family during one of the most difficult times in their lives. Treetops cared for Steve through its Hospice at Home nursing service during his final days and later provided bereavement counselling following his death from pancreatic cancer. Thanks to the support of Treetops' Hospice at Home nurses, Steve was able to remain where he wanted to be most, at home with his wife, Maria and surrounded by his family. Becky said: "Until the last week or so, we were coping and taking it in turns to stay with Dad, but towards the end we were quite exhausted. "When Treetops came, it was such a relief. Just having someone there who could support Dad and give us a bit of a break for a moment made such a difference." The sisters describe their dad as “funny, caring and always young at heart”. A devoted husband, father and grandfather, Steve loved making people laugh. Following Steve's death, Amy and Becky both accessed bereavement counselling through Treetops, helping them navigate their grief after losing their dad less than four weeks after his diagnosis. Amy said: "My counsellor gave me techniques for coping with my grief and helped me understand what to do when things felt overwhelming. "One thing I was encouraged to do was get back into my hobbies, which really helped me rebuild my confidence." As a true family effort, Amy and Becky will be joined at the Moonlight Walk by Steve’s grandchildren, Bella and Harry, who are also taking on the walk in his memory. Cheering them on from the sidelines will be Steve’s wife, Maria, along with his other two grandchildren, Grace and Archie. Adding to the family’s support, Becky’s husband Ric will be volunteering at the Moonlight Walk, offering his professional photography skills to help capture the evening. Amy explained: "After everything Treetops did for Dad and all of the support they've given us through counselling, we wanted to do the Moonlight Walk to give back. "We'll be walking in memory of Dad, but it's also about making sure another family can receive the support that we had. "Treetops didn't just support Dad, they supported all of us, and everyone should be able to access that support." Becky added: "What's so nice about Treetops’ events is that most people there have their own personal connection and in some way can understand what you've been through." The Moonlight Walk takes place on Friday 18 September and raises vital funds for Treetops Hospice’s range of services in central and southern Derbyshire. Last year, the event raised more than £40,000 to support local families. [button url="https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/event/moonlight-walk/" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]Sign up for the 2026 Moonlight Walk here[/button]

Treetops Hospice has announced a new partnership with Derbyshire County Cricket Club (DCCC), bringing together two long‑established Derbyshire organisations with strong roots in the local community. A key part of the partnership is Treetops’ sponsorship of Derbyshire cricket player Lara Shaw, recently named Derbyshire Women’s Batter of the Year for two consecutive seasons. Natalie Godrich, Relationships Manager at Treetops Hospice, said: “Women’s cricket is growing rapidly, but many players still don’t receive the recognition or sponsorship they deserve. We’re proud to support Lara and help champion the women’s game in Derbyshire. “Her talent, dedication and achievements make her a fantastic ambassador for the sport and for our community.” Lara Shaw said: “I’m incredibly grateful for Treetops’ support. Knowing a local charity believes in me and in the women’s game means a great deal. “I’m proud to represent Derbyshire and to be linked with an organisation that does so much for families in our county.” As part of the wider partnership, Treetops Hospice will also be advertising at The OurCoop County Ground during the 2024/25 season, including on the club’s big screen and pitch‑side board. The visibility aims to raise awareness of the charity’s vital services among thousands of supporters. Natalie added: “Derbyshire County Cricket Club is one of the most recognisable and well‑loved sports organisations in the county, and both of us play such important roles in our local communities in different ways. “If our partnership helps even one family discover the support available from Treetops at a time when they need us most, then it has achieved exactly what we hoped.” Treetops’ new mascot, Remy the Robin, will also make a special appearance at the DCCC Falcons Family Day on Sunday 12 July. The event will feature inflatables, face painting, circus activities and live music in the Falcons FanZone. Remy will take on fellow local mascots in the brand new ‘mascot race’ before supporters enjoy the T20 match and a post‑game meet and greet with Falcons players. DCCC has also generously donated a selection of Family Day tickets for Treetops to offer to families it supports. The partnership aims to increase awareness of the hospice’s services while supporting community events and grassroots sport across Derbyshire. For more information about Treetops Hospice services, visit: https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/ For tickets to DCCC’s Family Fun Day, visit: https://derbyshireccc.com/2026/06/experience-falcons-family-day/

Treetops Hospice's much‑loved Moonlight Walk is back this September, with this year’s event set to be bigger and brighter than ever. Taking place on Friday 18 September 2026, the annual evening fundraiser will once again see hundreds of supporters light up Derby as they walk in memory of loved ones whilst raising funds for the hospice. Participants will follow a brand new, fully‑marshalled route, choosing between 6km or 11km, beginning at Derby Market Hall and passing several of the city’s best‑known landmarks. This year’s walk features a refreshed line‑up of entertainment, including choirs, drummers, circus performers and more. The theme is ‘country and western’, with prizes to be won for best accessories and best team name. The Moonlight Walk is one of Treetops Hospice’s most successful annual events. Last year it raised over £40,000 for the charity’s community-based palliative care for adults and its counselling services for people who are bereaved. Alicja Sankowski, Relationships Manager for Key Events at Treetops Hospice, said: “We can’t wait to welcome everyone back for this year’s refreshed Moonlight Walk. “It’s an uplifting event where friends, families and the wider community come together in celebration and remembrance, and we’ve added lots of new elements to make this year’s walk feel even more special. “This event is such an important fundraiser for Treetops. The money raised helps us provide crucial care and emotional support for families across the region, from counselling and wellbeing services to specialist end-of-life at home. Every step our walkers take will genuinely make a huge difference.” Another new addition for 2026 is a partnership with Derby-based Hotpod Yoga, which has chosen Treetops Hospice as its local charity partner. The collaboration was inspired by owner Leah McLaren’s personal experience of losing her father. Now settled into its new home at The Cube in Allestree, Hotpod Yoga runs its classes inside a striking purple pod, heated to a natural body temperature of 37 degrees. As part of the partnership, the studio will be hosting a cool‑down taster session during the Moonlight Walk and offering a free relaxation and recovery class for all participants to book at a time that suits them afterwards. Leah said: “From the very beginning, my wonderful Dad was one of Hotpod Yoga’s biggest supporters. He sadly died in hospital without ever having the chance to receive hospice care. “If raising awareness means even one more family can receive the incredible, essential support that Treetops offers, then that’s what matters most.” To sign up for Treetops’ Moonlight Walk, visit: https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/event/moonlight-walk/ Treetops Hospice's mascot, Remy, with the Hotpod Yoga group.

Ten local supporters have completed the iconic 172-mile Way of the Roses coast-to-coast cycling route, raising nearly £7,000 towards the vital care provided by Treetops Hospice. The group included Treetops Hospice Chief Executive, John Knight, and long standing Trustee Yvonne Hobday, who took on the multi-day challenge from Morecambe, Lancashire, to Bridlington, Yorkshire. The popular route is known for its stunning scenery and steep climbs as it crosses two counties. The team were supported throughout the journey by Whittaker Workplace Solutions, whose generous sponsorship included branded team T‑shirts and a dedicated support vehicle. The company’s Managing Director, Nick Whittaker also went the extra mile by joining the team and taking on the challenge himself. John Knight, CEO of Treetops Hospice, said: “It was a fantastic weekend spent sharing a demanding journey with a brilliant group of people, all while raising considerable funds for Treetops. “There were certainly some challenging parts of the ride but knowing that every mile helps us provide vital end-of-life care, bereavement support and wellbeing services for local people kept us all going. “Thank you to everyone who donated, encouraged the riders and followed our journey.” Trustee Yvonne Hobday, who has supported Treetops for over four years, spent 40 years working in social care before she retired, with much of her work taking place in the Erewash area where she first saw the impact of Treetops’ services on local families. Her connection with the charity deepened when a close family member became terminally ill and chose to spend their final days at home. Treetops’ Hospice at Home support during that time made her decision to become a trustee even more meaningful. Yvonne said: “Being a trustee over the last few years at Treetops Hospice has been a privilege. It is so rewarding to be part of such an amazing and caring organisation. “Fundraising is crucial to providing palliative care to our local community and surrounding areas, so when the opportunity to actually take part in something that would raise funds presented itself, I found it hard to say no. “I definitely underestimated the challenge, despite months of training before the event. However, the other participants and support team were incredibly encouraging along the whole 172 miles, and the feeling of accomplishment at the end was worth the effort and pain. The money raised made it all worthwhile.” Last year, Treetops supported more than 2,100 patients and delivered over 34,000 hours of care across central and southern Derbyshire. With statutory funding covering just 18.2% of its operating costs, the hospice relies heavily on fundraising events and community support to continue its work. To find out more about Treetops Hospice’s challenges or events, visit its website: https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/get-involved/fundraising-with-treetops/events-and-challenges/

Local families affected by Motor Neurone Disease (MND) are finding vital support, connection and comfort at Mollies – a dedicated group based at Treetops Hospice in Risley.   The group welcomes anyone affected by MND, including patients, families and carers, and offers a blend of peer support, professional guidance and a safe space to chat. It is led by specialists, including a local MND Nurse, an Occupational Therapist and a Community Support Coordinator from the MND Association. Rachel Pitzettu, the Coordinator who runs the group, said: “With MND being such a rare condition, affecting around 2 in every 100,000 people each year, many people might never meet someone else living with it. “That’s why Mollies is so special. It brings people together who truly understand each other. There’s advice, support, validation, and just as importantly, there’s often laughter. Whatever someone needs that day, they can bring it to the group without fear or judgement.” Over time, the group has become a place where strong friendships have been formed that continue well beyond the monthly sessions. A consistent and dedicated team of volunteers also attend each month, offering continuity and helping build genuine, trusting relationships with the people they support. One of the group’s regular attendees is Nigel, whose wife Sally was diagnosed with MND in 2020. The couple attended Mollies together and quickly found comfort in meeting others with similar experiences. “Sally loved the group, the people, the staff, the volunteers,” Nigel said. “After she died, I wanted to give something back. If I can help even one person going through what we went through, that’s all that matters.” Nigel now continues to attend Mollies, drawing on his experience to support other patients, carers and families. “MND isn’t fully understood unless you or someone close to you goes through it,” he said. “People in the group appreciate honesty and sometimes hearing things from someone who’s lived it makes all the difference.” Nigel and Sally shared a remarkable life together – living in eight different countries during Nigel’s RAF career, travelling around the world, and first meeting at college while studying Latin American Studies. They were together for 50 years. Their story, and Nigel’s continued involvement, have become a source of support and guidance for many who attend Mollies. Another attendee, Kay, who is a mum of two from Long Eaton has been part of the group since she was diagnosed with MND in 2025. She said the sessions have been “welcoming and friendly.” She explained: “Attending these groups is definitely something that was way out of my comfort zone, but after the first time of going, I felt really at ease and I'm comfortable now.” Kay joined the group to connect with others affected by MND, including those living with the condition and the carers and family members who support them, while navigating it in her own family. “It has helped me understand that everybody's disease progresses differently and has given me a more positive outlook on my own life. “I've also been given loads of advice on equipment and travelling abroad that has been really useful. Treetops is a calming and cheerful place and I would urge anybody to give the support group a go. “We don't just sit around and talk about our illness, we're just regular people who have a chat over cake, and feeling normal like that is great.” Alongside the MND group, Treetops Hospice provides a variety of monthly and weekly cafés, sessions and groups, supporting people affected by life‑limiting illnesses, bereavement and other wellbeing needs. To find out more about the MND support group at Treetops, visit: https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/our-services/wellbeing-space/mnda-support-group/ Nigel and his wife, Sally. Kay and her family.

Treetops Hospice is preparing to welcome the community to its first Memory Meadow event, where families have dedicated over one hundred Forget-Me-Not flowers in honour of loved ones. Among the participants is Fran, a local funeral celebrant who will be remembering both her husband and mum through the event. Fran’s first husband, Dan, was diagnosed with a brain tumour in January 2011 and died six months later, aged just 34. During his illness and after he died, Fran received complementary therapy at Treetops in the form of Reiki, which helped her cope and created a lasting connection with the hospice. Fran’s mum Verna died in 2020. She especially loved flowers and gardening, so the Forget‑Me‑Not felt like a fitting tribute to her too. “Treetops is a beautiful place to visit, and I felt very supported at such a devastating time,” Fran said. “I saw the social media post and thought the flowers looked so beautiful. The Forget‑Me‑Not has always been my favourite flower, so I’m honouring my first husband and my mum.” Fran describes her loved ones as “intelligent and wise” but “humble,” both with “a wicked sense of humour” that people loved. She has chosen a special engraving for her Forget‑Me‑Not, and after the event, she plans to take it home and place it in her garden, which was lovingly landscaped by Dan’s parents when he was dying. From 10am to 2pm on Saturday 20 June 2026, the hospice gardens in Risley will be transformed into a tranquil space for reflection and remembrance. The Forget‑Me‑Not flowers will come together to create a beautiful collective tribute, forming a moving display for families, friends and the wider community. “I am looking forward to seeing their names on my special Forget‑Me‑Not.” As Fran prepares to join Treetops at its Memory Meadow, the hospice is inviting others to honour the memory of someone special in the same meaningful way. Robin Langrishe, Head of Community Relationships at Treetops Hospice said: “By dedicating a Forget- Me-Not flower, you’ll be contributing to expert hospice care in the community while creating a lasting keepsake that represents someone loved, someone missed and someone remembered. “We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone to the hospice for a moment of beauty and reflection this summer.” Each flower is mounted on a steel pole for easy placement, and can be collected from the hospice or posted. To dedicate a Forget Me Not flower in memory of someone special: https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/get-involved/memory-meadow/ [button url="https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/memory-meadow-order-form/" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]Order your memory flower here[/button] Fran and her mum, Verna.

This year’s Wilne 10k and Derby 10 Mile have chosen Treetops Hospice as their official charity partner, inspired by the care the hospice provided to Connell McNelis, a close friend of Race Director, Richard Kay. Richard said the decision was “natural” after witnessing the support Treetops provided Connell, his wife Nina and their daughter Carmella during Connell’s long illness and in the time following his death last year. “Connell was a very close friend of mine and seeing the care Treetops gave him, and the support they continue to give Nina and Carmella, brought home just how vital their work is.” “This partnership is our way of honouring Connell and helping other families in the community who may one day need the same support from Treetops.” Connell was described by those who knew him as “inspirational, positive and full of life” and first became ill in 2013 when his daughter Carmella was just a baby. For more than a decade, he defied expectations, staying active, embracing a healthy lifestyle and doing everything he could to make the most of the time he had. He wrote a book, Savour Life – The Will to Survive and Thrive, to help others facing cancer with tips for holistic and natural ways to benefit their health. Throughout those years, Treetops Hospice played a quiet but important role in the family’s life. Nina explained that they were first introduced to Treetops over a decade ago, when both she and Connell received complementary therapies such as Reiki and reflexology. “The complementary therapy from Treetops was lovely and gave us a chance to relax and reset after the stress of Connell’s diagnosis.” As Connell’s health declined last year, the family were supported by Treetops once again, this time for counselling for their daughter Carmella, and later for specialist nursing support at home for Connell and counselling for Nina. Nina said the care they received was “just amazing”. “The Treetops nurses didn’t just look after Connell, they looked after us as a family. They explained what was happening and supported us so much by talking through things, every step of the way.” When Connell died at home, the Treetops nurses who had cared for him returned in the early hours of the morning to be with the family and offer support. Since then, both Nina and Carmella have continued to receive bereavement counselling and complementary therapies from Treetops. Nina explained: “Our friends and family have been so amazing and supportive but also having a professional who understands what you’re going through makes such a difference.” More than 50 of Connell’s friends and relatives, including many travelling from Scotland, where he grew up, will take part in the Wilne 10k this year in his memory. Nina said: “It means so much to see how many people loved Connell and want to run for him. Supporting Treetops is our way of giving back for how they were there for us when we needed them most, and we want other families to have that same care.” Last year, Treetops Hospice delivered more than 34,000 hours of care, supporting over 2,000 patients across central and southern Derbyshire. Natalie Godrich, Relationships Manager at Treetops Hospice, said: “We are incredibly grateful to be chosen as the official charity partner for the wonderful Wilne 10k and Derby 10 Mile events. “Everyone running in Connell’s memory and fundraising for Treetops is so inspiring, and their support will help us continue caring for families during the most difficult times of their lives.” The Wilne 10k takes place in September, followed by the Derby 10 Mile in November. Runners can still sign up or donate via the event websites: https://www.wilne.co.uk/enter-2026/ Nina's daughter, Carmella and her cousins at a Treetops Hospice event.

For more than two years, Angeline has been a dedicated volunteer at Treetops Hospice, offering a listening ear to people navigating some of the hardest moments of their lives. Her role sits within our Wellbeing team, in our network of Bereavement Hubs. These hubs run in various community venues across Derbyshire, offering a relaxed, drop-in space where anyone experiencing grief can meet others who understand. Whether you pop in once for a cuppa or attend regularly, every visit is free and our staff and volunteers are always ready to listen. The hubs are designed to help people feel less isolated and more connected to their community. As Angeline explains: “The benefit of the Bereavement Hubs being out in the community is they can help people to feel less isolated and find out about what’s going on in the local area that they can get involved in.” Our volunteers and staff provide a safe, open space to chat, often bringing resources to spark conversations and occasionally welcome guest speakers who highlight local support options. “We want people to leave our hub feeling better than when they came and ready to go on with their week,” Angeline says. Why Treetops Angeline first joined Treetops in February 2024, hoping to support an independent charity serving her local community. She began in our original Monday group, supporting people with life‑limiting illnesses and their families. When the Bereavement Hubs launched, she moved to the Ilkeston Hub, where her calm presence and people skills quickly became invaluable. She explains: “I like the personal touch at Treetops, everyone is encouraging, supportive and works collaboratively.” She also appreciates the balance that volunteering brings. “There is something freeing about being a volunteer. We have responsibility, but without the pressures of a full‑time job, which means each session brings something different, and I can really focus on supporting people as well as I possibly can when I am there.” Much of Angeline’s role is about creating a safe, comfortable environment where people feel able to share. She describes it as “being inclusive” and “gently managing emotions”, encouraging quieter voices and making sure everyone feels heard. “For me, volunteering in the Bereavement Hubs is less about a specific skill and more about being interested in what people have to say. We listen, we enable conversations, and give people the chance to make new connections.” She hopes her experience encourages others to consider volunteering. “People sometimes think you need to be a certain type of person or have particular skills to volunteer at Treetops, but that’s not the case. Anyone with time to give can make a real difference.” For roles like Angeline’s, we provide full bereavement support training, so volunteers can feel confident and prepared. The power of peer support What Angeline finds most inspiring is the natural peer support that grows within the hubs. “We’re just facilitators of conversations as staff and volunteers. It is the power of the group that offers the real peer support. “It’s about helping the group recognise that while each person’s experience is unique, there are others who can relate and offer insights we can all learn from.” For many people, walking through the door for the first time can feel understandably daunting but with our experienced volunteers and staff welcoming them, that first step becomes a little easier. Anyone can volunteer – and make a difference Angeline is passionate about encouraging others to get involved, whatever their background, age or experience. “I truly believe everyone has something to give when it comes to volunteering; it’s just about finding what works for you.” At Treetops, our volunteers can get involved in a wide range of roles – from our retail shops and Wellbeing services to the servery team, reception, counselling support and more. We do our best to match each person with something that suits their skills, interests and availability. For anyone considering volunteering, Angeline’s message is simple: “Anyone who has time to give could be a valuable volunteer at Treetops.” And for anyone experiencing grief, our Bereavement Hubs offer a warm, welcoming space to talk, listen or simply sit with others who understand.

A local bride has helped raise funds for Treetops Hospice – first by choosing her wedding dress from the charity’s bridal boutique, and again by donating it back after her big day so another bride can enjoy it. Keziah first discovered the boutique based in Wollaton after being a bridesmaid for two friends who both tried on gowns there. She said: “I remembered how beautiful the dresses were and how happy both of my friends were when they bought them from the Treetops shop. “I also loved the idea that what I spent on my dress could help support quality end‑of‑life care in the community.” During her appointment, Treetops’ bridal fitting volunteer Alison guided her through the collection. “The boutique is small but beautifully laid out, and you can see every dress,” Keziah explained. “I initially went in wanting a big princess dress, but Alison encouraged me to try lots of styles. I ended up choosing something completely different – the dress I went for was slim, elegant and just perfect.” Alison helped her picture the final fit and referred her to a trusted alterations specialist, making the whole experience simple and enjoyable. After her wedding, Keziah knew she wanted the dress to return to the place it came from. “I knew I wouldn’t wear it again, and I didn’t want it gathering dust at home. I wanted someone else to enjoy it, and for the money to go back into the incredible care Treetops provides.” “Nathaniel and I wanted our wedding to be an opportunity to give back, so donating the dress felt like the perfect way to be generous and kind.” Keziah hopes her story encourages more brides to consider second-hand dress shopping – particularly as more couples look for sustainable and affordable wedding options. “You can find stunning dresses, with some even in brand‑new condition, at really affordable prices. By shopping at Treetops’ bridal boutique, you’re supporting a charity that makes a huge difference to local families. “Go with an open mind and you might just find your dream dress in something completely unexpected, like I did.” Her gown is now back on the Treetops bridal boutique rails, ready to help fund more expert care and create more memories for another bride. You can find out more about the Treetops Bridal Boutique here: Wollaton Charity Shop - Treetops Hospice

With more than 46,000 children in the UK estimated to be bereaved of a parent each year, and support services under growing pressure, understanding how children grieve has never been more important. Treetops Hospice offers free children’s counselling and emotional support for children suffering from bereavement or traumatic bereavement. The service is available for bereaved children and young people who are either users of Treetops' services or registered with a GP practice in Derby city, southern Derbyshire or Erewash. Last year, the bereavement counselling team at Treetops provided more than 5,000 hours of sessions – including over 1,500 for children and young people. Jules Kirk, Therapeutic Services Manager at Treetops, sees firsthand how children navigate loss on a daily basis, and she describes how this is often in ways that look very different from adults, so it’s important to know how to support them in ways that reflect their unique needs. Jules explains: “Children often experience grief differently from adults. Their emotions can be more fluid and changeable: one moment they may be inconsolable and shortly afterwards they may want to play, chat with friends or return to familiar activities. “These intense pockets of grief can feel all‑consuming while they last, drawing the child fully into their sadness. Yet just as quickly, they may reorient themselves to the world around them. “This oscillation is not a sign of avoidance or indifference. It is an important and healthy way for children to cope with loss, giving them space both to feel their grief and to continue engaging with everyday life. Over time, this process helps them adapt to the profound changes that follow a death. “A key part of this adaptation is the child’s ability to invest in a future without the person who has died, while still maintaining a meaningful connection with them. This is known as the continuing bonds model of grief. “The term continuing bonds reflects a more contemporary understanding of relationships and attachment. It recognises that death does not end a relationship; rather, the relationship changes form. The bond may continue in a transformed way, sustained through memories, emotions, and actions that keep the person present in the child’s ongoing life story.” Examples of continuing bonds include: Sharing stories and memories of the person who has died Keeping possessions that belonged to them Displaying photographs as a source of comfort and connection Doing activities the person would have enjoyed, especially on meaningful dates Creating acts of remembrance, such as altruistic gestures or personal memorials Including the deceased in special occasions, for example by mentioning them at a wedding or leaving an empty chair at a holiday meal Jules continues: “Bereaved children often need additional support to navigate these experiences. This can feel especially challenging when the adults around them are grieving too.” To help with this, Treetops Hospice created a free-of-charge resource booklet, ‘Supporting a child when someone they love has died’, also affectionately known as the Little Gem booklet. It is designed to guide adults in supporting the child in their care, while also offering dedicated resources that can be shared directly with the child. The children’s section of the book includes practical tools such as tips for coping with grief, guidance on creating a self‑care kit, and a communication checklist to help them express what they would find helpful or unhelpful during their personal grieving process. [button url="https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/supporting-a-child-when-a-loved-one-has-died/" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]Find out more about our bereavement support and read the booklet in full[/button]

A senior NHS leader has described Treetops Hospice’s Advanced Communication Skills Training (ACST) as “transformative”, crediting the programme with improving both clinical conversations and high level strategic decision-making across one of the region’s largest hospital trusts. Duncan Cameron, Head of Strategic Planning at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust, first completed the CPD-approved course while serving as General Manager for Cancer Services. He enrolled to better understand the emotionally demanding conversations his teams were navigating daily, from supporting distressed patients to handling complaints, sensitive Human Resources issues and complex treatment discussions. He says the training has had a profound and lasting impact. “All of the valuable skills I learnt in the course are now used far beyond clinical scenarios. It’s genuinely transformative.” Treetops’ ACST programme is an experiential, two-day course designed for senior leaders, consultants, SAS doctors, GPs, allied health professionals, nurses, midwives and non clinical professionals. It builds confidence in navigating tender conversations with compassion and candour – whether breaking bad news, responding to anger or distress or having important conversations with colleagues. Duncan describes the course as “fascinating, tangible, impactful and unique”, praising the facilitators for creating a safe environment that encourages participants to stretch their skills while tailoring the experience to their professional needs. “It takes you out of your comfort zone in a way that feels completely safe and supportive, and the learnings genuinely stick with you.” A key component of the training focuses on recognising cues, micro skills and facilitative behaviours, giving participants a practical toolkit of principles they can apply immediately. For Duncan, these skills have proved invaluable not only in clinical settings but also in strategic planning, organisational change and team leadership across the Trust. “I’ve recommended it to so many of my colleagues because I've seen how valuable it is, in all aspects of my role and life in general.” With NHS staff facing increasing pressures, Treetops Hospice says demand for high quality communication training continues to grow. The ACST programme is designed to strengthen resilience, improve patient experience and support healthier workplace cultures – all key priorities for healthcare organisations. To find out more about Treetops’ education and training services, visit: https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/care/for-professionals/education-and-development/