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Treetops Hospice has planted a sapling grown from the legendary Sycamore Gap tree – one of only four organisations in the East Midlands chosen to receive this gift.   The planting forms part of the National Trust’s nationwide Trees of Hope initiative, which has provided 49 saplings to communities and organisations across the UK.   The original Sycamore Gap tree, a beloved landmark beside Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland for more than 120 years, was illegally felled in September 2023. These new saplings will carry forward its legacy, each grown from seeds rescued from the felled tree.   To mark the planting during National Tree Week, Treetops hosted a celebratory ‘Tree Party’ event on Friday 28 November, with staff, volunteers and press in attendance. The hospice’s new Chief Executive Officer, John Knight, and former CEO, Julie Heath, both spoke at the event.   John Knight said: “We are delighted to have been chosen to receive a Tree of Hope sapling.   “Our 12.5-acre hospice grounds in Risley are something we take great pride in, providing beautiful surroundings that mean a great deal to the people we support, as well as to our staff, volunteers and visitors. The sapling will be a welcome addition to the site for everyone to enjoy.”   Treetops Hospice’s former CEO, Julie Heath, commented: “The Tree of Hope symbolises hope after loss, perfectly reflecting what Treetops stands for – the power of hope, compassion and community.”   Andrew Poad, General Manager for the National Trust’s Hadrian Wall properties, said: “It’s incredible to think that the first ‘offspring’ of this very famous tree are now being planted – it feels like just yesterday that those tentative first shoots appeared.   “Over the next couple of years, the saplings will really start to take shape, and because sycamores are so hardy, we’re confident they’ll be able to withstand a range of conditions.   “To be able to keep the story of the Sycamore Gap alive in all four corners of the UK and in so many different settings is a fitting tribute, and we hope that, just like the original tree, these young saplings will touch many people’s lives.”

Treetops Hospice, a leading provider of hospice care and bereavement support in Derbyshire, welcomed tradespeople and their families back to its site in Risley – two years after they helped create its dedicated children’s counselling and therapy centre, The Saplings. The visiting trades were part of the BBC DIY SOS: The Big Build for Children in Need project, completed in just ten days in September 2023. Hundreds of volunteers – including joiners, plumbers, carpenters and designers – donated their time, skills and materials to bring the purpose-built centre to life. The reunion offered the trades volunteers a chance to see how The Saplings has flourished since its opening, and to learn about the life-changing impact it has had on more than 468 local bereaved children and their families over the past two years, providing 3,148 hours of counselling.“At Treetops, we support children as young as seven who are struggling after the death of a loved one,” said Jules Kirk, Therapeutic Services Manager at Treetops Hospice. “Many of our young clients have experienced sudden or traumatic bereavements, including accidents, suicide and murder. “Thanks to the generosity of all the tradespeople who gave their time and resources two years ago, The Saplings building continues to provide a safe, welcoming space for the children we support every day with our counselling and complementary therapy services.” Rachel Zair from Zair Home Maintenance, who spent five days volunteering at Treetops as part of the Big Build, said: “Taking part in this project has been amazing. It was not only an opportunity to give back, but it was genuinely life-changing for us too. We met so many fantastic tradespeople during the build, many of whom we’re still in touch with today. “It’s wonderful to see The Saplings now, as such a special space for the local children who rely on its support.” Local business owner and councillor Matthew Relf, who designed and created the iconic tree in The Saplings’ entrance, said: “I’m really chuffed to see the results of our hard work, and to see The Saplings has been so well looked after by Treetops over the last two years.”

“Mum was really supportive of everything we did in life. She was always proud of our achievements, but also drove us in setting the standards of what life should be.” Mark’s mum, Susan, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019. After surgery and chemotherapy, she was given the all-clear. “When her hair grew back, we thought life would get better and she’d be with us for a long time.” But during the Covid pandemic, her health declined. Mark (51) recalls the first signs: a dull ache in her lower back, difficulty eating, and a burning sensation in her chest. She eventually received a terminal cancer diagnosis, alone. “I remember the day. It was 5 October, the day after my birthday.” With hospital visiting restrictions in place, Mark and his family brought his mum home to care for her. For four-and-a-half weeks, they supported her day and night. At first, she was stable and able to enjoy TV and conversation, but soon her condition worsened. Restless nights and increasing pain left the family overwhelmed. “We ended up calling the doctors, saying we needed support at night, but we didn't know where to go. That's when we were signposted to Treetops Hospice.” Treetops provides a Hospice at Home service, where trained nurses visit families overnight to manage medication, provide care, and offer guidance. For Mark’s family, this support was life-changing. “The nurses were brilliant. I describe them as angels. We’d get to 3am, and mum would be agitated and in pain. We’d call the Treetops nurses, and they’d be there within half an hour. Two nurses would sort her medication, settle her, and stay with her. They never rushed. That gave us a couple of hours to breathe, have a drink, and clear our heads.” Mark adds: “Without Treetops, I don’t know what we’d have done. We were lost. We thought we could cope, but it’s only when you receive that support that you realise what the hospice truly does for families at their most vulnerable moments. It was a crisis for us, and Treetops helped us survive it.” To say thank you, Mark will be lacing up his trainers on Sunday 15 March to take part in the Derby 10K for Treetops. He’s urging local runners to join him. “Running for Treetops isn’t just about raising money, it raises awareness in the local community, so families know where to turn if they need help. It also gives me a sense of purpose and closeness to my mum. Having more people out running and sharing their stories will help Treetops reach even more families.” Join Mark at the start line of the Derby 10K and support families like his.

Treetops Hospice, a leading provider of hospice care and bereavement support in central and southern Derbyshire, is delighted to announce the appointment of John Knight as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). John brings a wealth of leadership experience from across the health and charity sectors, having most recently served as Chief Executive Officer at Hospice Isle of Man since 2023. Prior to this, he was Chief Executive at LOROS Hospice, where he led major developments in the delivery of high-quality, compassionate care and support for terminally ill patients and their families across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland. Commenting on his appointment, John Knight said: “Being from Matlock, it’s thrilling to be coming back home to Derbyshire with my family, and joining Treetops Hospice.” He added: “Leading charities that contribute so much to their communities is, in my opinion, an immense privilege and comes with the responsibility to ensure that the highest quality care is provided in the most cost-effective way by people who are totally committed to the cause. There can be few if any better ways to be employed.” Cheryl Webster, Chair of the Board of Trustees at Treetops Hospice, added: “We are thrilled to welcome John to Treetops Hospice. His passion for improving patient care, combined with his proven leadership and vision, will help guide the hospice into its next exciting chapter.”  

Schools, clubs and community groups are being invited to put on their antlers, get moving, and help raise vital funds for local children this Christmas by taking part in the Treetops Reindeer Dash. Last year over 3,800 children took part in the Reindeer Dash, raising over £28,000 for Treetops Hospice. The money was used to help the charity provide bereavement services for children and young people struggling with the death of a loved one. Natalie Godrich, Relationships Manager for Treetops Hospice, and the charity’s unofficial “reindeer” said: “Children from schools, nurseries and child minders; as well as Brownies, Cubs, and dance, drama and sports clubs have all joined the festive fun of our Reindeer Dash.” The Reindeer Dash is a flexible festive fundraiser that can be completed during a PE lesson, a sports game, or even a reindeer-themed school disco. Each child taking part receives a pair of antlers, a sponsorship form, and a certificate, making fundraising fun and memorable. Natalie added: “Every penny raised through Reindeer Dash fundraising really does make a difference to the local community; it enables us to provide bereavement support to local children and young people. “£5 could provide a bereaved child and guardian with our “Someone I love has died” booklet, which offers advice and support. £34.50 could fund a one hour bereavement session for a local child or young person.” To support fundraising efforts, Treetops provide posters and also attend assemblies to talk about the hospice, bereavement support and the difference the children are making through their fundraising. New for 2025, Treetops are also offering those who raise £2,500 or more, one free place to their Bereavement Training Workshops. These courses aim to prepare and equip teachers and group leaders with the necessary knowledge and awareness to support bereaved children. Those interested in the Treetops Reindeer Dash can find out more and request fundraising packs online or by calling the hospice on 0115 949 1264.

When her father died in her early 20s, Eleanor Sibley felt bewildered and didn’t know how to cope with her grief. 30 years later, she is using that experience to volunteer at Treetops Hospice, showing others facing bereavement they’re not alone. “One of the amazing, and I think healing, things about Treetops is that death, dying and grief are the stuff of everyday; so even if it’s someone’s first experience of grief, there’s a huge amount of experience and support on offer here. It’s as if grief has a soft landing here. You’re not met with shock, horror or avoidance, as you might be in other areas of your life.” After a two-decade career in university management, Eleanor took voluntary redundancy during the pandemic. This paved the way for her long-standing passion, Complementary Therapy. Initially Eleanor started life at Treetops as a “Meet and Greet” volunteer, but after hearing a presentation from Jules Kirk, Therapeutic Services Manager at Treetops, which highlighted that Complementary Therapy is funded only by donations and that volunteers were needed, something clicked. “That’s me, I thought, despite having spent the past 24 years only giving Complementary Therapy to friends and family.” Through gentle mentoring from the Complementary Therapy and Counselling Teams, Eleanor’s confidence has returned and she’s now offering a range of complementary therapy including aromatherapy, massage and guided relaxation to patients and bereaved families. Terminal illness and bereavement can take its toll emotionally and physically. Stress, tension and sleep problems can be common, but complementary therapy treatments provided by Eleanor and the Complementary Therapy team give patients and families space to relax, reconnect, and find comfort. “Clients often tell me they’ve used the relaxation techniques at home, to get back to sleep in the night rather than lying awake and thinking. That feels incredible.” Many clients are referred from the Counselling Team, creating a holistic approach to care. “It’s incredible to see how talking therapy and touch therapy together can help someone feel an emotion they haven’t been able to feel, or express a thought they’ve been too unable to admit. It’s humbling and sometimes makes me well up.” While for those living with conditions like Motor Neurone Disease (MND) for example, touch therapy can bring real physical benefits and help slow the deterioration of muscle strength. For Eleanor, volunteering as a Complementary Therapist at Treetops has been a fulfilling experience: “The complementary therapy volunteering I do at Treetops is absolutely one of the most fulfilling things I’ve ever done. It feels like my real and authentic self.” Every session brings a reminder of the difference volunteers make, whether it’s a client sleeping better, or someone finally finding the words to express their grief. But the sense of appreciation goes both ways: “Every time I leave Treetops, at least one of the team thanks me for my time that day in a way that feels genuine. It might sound small, but being seen and acknowledged means so much. It makes me feel valued.” Inspired by Treetops’ counsellors and the positive impact of their work, Eleanor is even considering training to be a counsellor so she can contribute in another way to the hospice she loves. [button url="https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer/volunteer-vacancies/" template="block" class="btn-block--white"]See our latest volunteer vacancies[/button]

Treetops has launched Empower, a new personalised wellbeing programme designed to help people living with life-limiting conditions build confidence, resilience, and independence in their daily lives. Unlike traditional “one-size-fits-all” approaches, Empower begins with one simple but powerful question: “What matters most to you right now?” Through one-to-one sessions, participants work with trained clinicians to identify their personal priorities; whether that’s easing anxiety or fatigue, planning future care, or simply making everyday activities more manageable. Together, they set small, realistic goals and learn practical techniques to support wellbeing at a pace that suits them. The Empower programme can include: Anxiety management strategies to restore calm and control Fatigue and energy-conservation planning for daily life Advice on equipment, aids and home adaptations Gentle nature-based activities, such as forest bathing Nutrition support to strengthen the body Return-to-work planning for those seeking meaningful activity Support with planning for future care, ensuring every voice is heard and respected Charlotte Budd, Occupational Therapist at Treetops Hospice, explained: “Living with a life-limiting condition can feel overwhelming, but no one should face it without choice or support. Empower recognises the whole person, their goals, fears and hopes, and helps people focus on what’s possible, not just what’s difficult.” Referrals to Empower are welcomed from health and social care professionals. Each referral is followed by an assessment from a Treetops clinician to ensure the programme complements existing support and care.

A Derbyshire man has completed a prestigious cycling event in honour of his late father, who had signed up to take part before tragically passing away this summer. On Sunday 7 September, Matt Holmes (31) from Thulston honoured his late father, Ivan, by completing the Tour de 4 cycle event in Scotland – riding with his dad’s race number pinned to his bike and his name proudly placed on his back. Ivan, who died in July at the age of 60, had been determined to take part in the event despite being diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in 2024. A fit and active man, he had drawn inspiration from Sir Chris Hoy’s memoir All That Matters, which encouraged him to focus not on his diagnosis, but on what was still possible. Tragically, Ivan collapsed in July and passed away just days later from a hemorrhagic stroke, surrounded by his family. His sudden death left a space on the Tour de 4 start line that his son, Matt, stepped forward to fill. For Matt, the ride was about more than cycling. It was about stepping into his dad’s shoes, or in this case, his saddle, and carrying forward the determination and warmth that defined him. “I had planned to surprise Dad at the start line, by signing up and taking part with him. Taking on the challenge in memory of Dad was hard, but I knew he’d be proud,” Matt said. “Dad was determined to prove that cancer didn’t define him, and I know he’d be proud that the challenge was still completed. I could almost hear him in my head, telling me to keep pushing on, just like he did when I was younger.” Matt rode alongside Ivan’s close friend, Gerald Stephens, making the day not only a test of endurance but also a powerful tribute to a man remembered for his positivity, humour, and love of life. Ivan was the sort of person who was always last on the dancefloor, never left a glass half empty, and treated everyone with the same kindness, whether in the office or at home. The ride also continued Ivan’s fundraising mission for Treetops Hospice, a local charity that supported the family during Matt’s grandmother’s illness five years ago. Thanks to Ivan’s determination and Matt’s tribute ride, the fundraising total has now grown beyond his original target, with donations still coming in. Matt added: “Dad always said if he couldn’t ride, I’d have to do it for him. It wasn’t the way any of us wanted it to be, but doing those miles in his name felt right. This was for him, and for the cause that meant so much to him.” Claire Mathias, Relationships Manager – Challenge Events at Treetops Hospice, said: “We are incredibly moved by Matt’s dedication in honouring his dad. To take on this challenge so soon after losing Ivan is a powerful tribute, and the funds raised will make a real difference to local families living with life-limiting illness. Ivan’s story is one of courage and resilience, and we are so grateful to Matt and the whole family for choosing to continue his legacy through their support for Treetops.”

Treetops Hospice, is celebrating the incredible success of its annual Moonlight Walk, which this year attracted over 400 attendees and raised £50,000 to support local patients and families. Now in its 12th year, the Treetops Moonlight Walk has become one of the hospice’s most popular and meaningful fundraising events. Each year, hundreds of people come together to walk in memory of loved ones, creating a moving and memorable evening while raising vital funds for local hospice care. The nighttime charity walk began and ended at the newly refurbished Derby Market Hall, with participants following a five or ten kilometre route past some of Derby’s most iconic landmarks. A particularly poignant moment came at Derby Cathedral, where many paused to light candles in memory of loved ones. [caption id="attachment_9002" align="alignnone" width="800"] Photography by JAKT Photography[/caption] The evening also offered entertainment, live music and a warm, uplifting atmosphere along the fully-marshalled route – uniting friends, families and the local community in celebration and remembrance. Local Derbyshire-headquartered restaurant group, Berkeley Inns, was the main sponsor of this year’s Moonlight Walk, with team members attending and cheering on the walkers throughout the evening. Victoria Rocca, Relationships Manager – Key Events at Treetops, said: “We were absolutely delighted with the incredible turnout at this year’s Moonlight Walk. “It costs over £5.7 million each year to run the hospice and provide our vital care, but with less than 18% of this coming from the Integrated Care Board (ICB), we must raise the remaining £4.7 million ourselves. “Events like the Moonlight Walk are absolutely essential – and we couldn’t do it without the generosity and support of our amazing community.” [caption id="attachment_9003" align="alignnone" width="800"] Photography by John Sumpter[/caption] One attendee, Andrea, who took part in the walk for the first year, added: “It's our first year doing the walk - after my Dad, Alan passed away. He was cared for by Treetops and they were amazing. Treetops gave him comfort and dignity to die at home.” The success of the walk helps Treetops Hospice continue to provide nursing care and emotional support for adults with life-limiting conditions, as well as counselling for those who are bereaved. Each year, Treetops supports over 2,000 people across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. Those inspired to get involved can already sign up for next year’s Treetops Moonlight Walk can via https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/event/moonlight-walk/

A daughter is set to take part in the Treetops Moonlight Walk,  in memory of her dad, Kool. Nav Bahra (31) from Derby has been receiving bereavement counselling from Treetops Hospice, since her dad, who she describes as “the most caring and generous man” died in 2024, following Aortic dissection. Nav will be lacing up her trainers for the Treetops Moonlight Walk on Friday 5 September, joined by her mum, aunt and cousin. The event, which starts and finishes at Derby Market Hall, raises funds for the hospice’s vital nursing and counselling services. “Treetops have been able to offer a confidential space for our family to access counselling without any judgement, crossover or difficulties. Everyone has been incredibly accommodating and couldn’t do enough for us.” Nav explained. “Treetops helped us to navigate these new feelings on keeping dad with us always, whilst growing around grief.” Reflecting on the death of her dad, Nav added: “It’s hard for people to understand a loss like this, the silence in the day-to-day, the empty space at the dinner table, the empty shoes at the door. It’s hard. Some days it feels unbearable but reassurance through talking and accepting that healing isn’t linear. You can grieve and grow at the same time, there is no right way to grieve, and feeling comforted that nothing will ever stop the continued love we all have for dad.” Nav will be joining hundreds of others at the Treetops Moonlight Walk, with walkers choosing between a 5K or 10K route to raise money for the hospice. Tickets for the Treetops Moonlight Walk are £18 per person and available via our Treetops Moonlight Walk page.

Treetops Hospice is at the forefront of innovative research into the therapeutic benefits of Forest Bathing, with the aim of making it truly accessible for all. The research, the first of its kind in a hospice setting, explores how Forest Bathing can be adapted to support people receiving palliative care. Weekly hour-long sessions are currently taking place in our tranquil grounds, led by Rachel Pitzettu, a Community Support Coordinator at the Motor Neurone Disease Association and a postgraduate researcher at Nottingham Trent University. Each session is carefully tailored to meet the mobility and energy levels of participants, ensuring a safe and inclusive experience that connects them with the natural world. Talking about her research, Rachel said: “For people accessing a hospice setting, accessing Forest Bathing may be difficult. This research is bringing something which is well documented, and evidence based, into a small scale more manageable package. “The population and demographic we’re working with is very pioneering. No research has previously taken place with Forest Bathing in a palliative care setting or hospice setting. Hopefully the findings can be used to put together a guide for other hospices about how they can use some of the nature connection techniques in therapeutic sessions.” Charlotte Budd, Occupational Therapist, at Treetops Hospice added: “We’re delighted to part of this groundbreaking project to evaluate the benefits on wellbeing of adapted Forest Bathing in a hospice setting. “The people who have taken part in the project so far have really enjoyed the experience and learned techniques that they have been able to replicate at home, to gain physiological and psychological benefits. The fact that these sessions are offered to people with varying levels of mobility, including wheelchair users, has really been welcomed by those who attend Treetops.” The research will run until October and could mark a turning point in how hospices across the UK integrate nature-based therapies into their services.  

Treetops Hospice has officially opened the doors of our newest charity shop in Belper, marking our nineteenth retail store across Derbyshire. Located on King Street, the shop was opened last week (Thursday 17 July) with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local influencer and charity shop enthusiast, Lola Amuah. The event drew crowds of supporters and shoppers eager to explore the store’s selection of pre-loved goods. Lola, who is passionate about sustainable shopping and local causes, said: “When I told my followers I would be cutting the ribbon, I had a lot of people reach out to me to say they'd been supported by Treetops. There's a lot of people who benefit from this service. “I love a charity shop because it supports my wallet, it's great for the environment if you're shopping second hand, and it supports an incredible cause. So, when you shop in the Treetops shop, remember where the money is going to and the people you're supporting. These are people in need, people at the end of their lives. It means a lot to the families.” The Belper shop offers a wide range of items, including clothing, accessories, books, toys, and bric-a-brac. In just its first few weeks, the store has seen bumper sales, thanks to the incredible support from the local community. Head of Retail, James Thomas added: “We have provided care in the Belper area for many years and so I have been determined to open a store in such an important community. “I am immensely proud to have, with the help of a fantastic team, finally achieved this goal. Hopefully, this will not only help us raise vital income to support our services, but that it also raise the awareness of the great work Treetops does in this wonderful community” Every item sold helps fund the vital care we provide to people living with a life-limiting illness. For example, just £13 from clothing sales could fund a counselling pack for a bereaved child. Treetops provide care for over 2,000 people living with a life-limiting illness in central and southern Derbyshire. It costs over £5.7m a year to provide our vital services and our charity shops provide a crucial contribution. To help keep stock replenished, we're always looking for clothing, toys, games, bric-a-brac and books to sell in our shops.