A respite centre offers children and their families a place of comfort from the time of diagnosis onwards. Children receive one-on-one care and parents can be sure that their child will be safe and comfortable. Providing these children with a second home – and indeed a second family – allows parents time to relax. They can confidently leave their children while they take a break, or stay at the centre and enjoy family time together.
How WA will benefit from Hannah’s House.
There are hundreds of children in Western Australia who, along with their families, could benefit from a facility like Hannah’s House. A 2005 independent study entitled ‘Caring for Life: The needs of children and families in Western Australia’, and co-funded by the Children’s Hospice Association, concluded that “families of children with chronic life-threatening illnesses or disabilities require access to both in-home and residential respite care.”
Hannah’s House is designed to complement existing services by offering a whole-family approach. Parents and siblings are welcome to stay and enjoy quality family time, or Hannah’s House professionals will care for children while parents and siblings recharge their batteries elsewhere.
A family’s experience.
Jacky and Martin visited a children's hospice while in the UK, and found themselves wishing there was a similar facility in WA. “When we first stepped through the doors of Francis House in Manchester we were overwhelmed by the warm welcome we received from everyone,” says Jacky. “The air of competence exhibited by the staff when dealing with Hannah convinced us that we had found a very special place. The hub was the lounge, a vibrant place where the guests and their families were engaged in a variety of activities.” Martin adds, “There was a great sense of community where problems and the relentless care of a dependent child could be shared, and friendship and support offered in a practical way. It was, in every sense, a home away from home – without the chores.”
A professional’s viewpoint.
Glyn Palmer, former Chief Executive Officer of Women’s and Children’s Services WA (2003-2006), says, “I am totally committed to supporting the work being undertaken to develop a service which will support children with life-limiting conditions, and their families. While in the position of Chief Executive, I recognised that – while the Government and hospitals provide services and treatment – there are times when additional support would help greatly. Hannah’s House will play a major role in achieving this, by offering children high quality care, in a homely, loving environment. And the family will benefit significantly from contact with professional, compassionate and understanding staff.”
