Local MP Backs Hospital's Sunshine Appeal
Greg Hands urges local people to help raise funds for new paediatric centre
Local MP Greg Hands MP has given his support to Chelsea and Westminster's fundraising campaign, the Children’s Sunshine Appeal.
Launched by Chelsea and Westminster Health Charity, the Appeal aims to raise £5million over three years to supplement £40m capital funding from the NHS to complete a groundbreaking new £45million paediatric centre at the Fulham Road hospital.
The specialist unit will save more children’s lives by delivering world-class treatment and facilities for babies, children and young people, and providing a positive healing environment through the Charity’s vibrant and unique art-in-health programme.
Greg Hands says: " For years now, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital has offered exceptional paediatric care to young people in Chelsea and Fulham, as well as across the whole of London. The new specialist unit will house world-class facilities and cutting edge technology for babies, children and young people.
" The hospital will become the in-patient paediatric centre in North West London, with enhanced wards and accommodation for families, ensuring that young people across London and the South East have access to the best possible care.
" I urge everyone who lives locally to support this excellent cause. By involving our local communities, the work of Chelsea and Westminster Health Charity is a clear example of how the voluntary sector can enhance the delivery of public services."
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital already treats more than 85,000 children every year, and the numbers are growing every year. When the new centre is complete, the hospital will be a world-leader in paediatric care, whilst continuing to offer exemplary 24/7 services to residents of all ages.
Chief Executive of Chelsea and Westminster Health Charity Gary Lawson hopes that the local community will continue to offer support and donations to the Appeal which has already reached over £800,000. He says:" As a parent, I take comfort in knowing that the very best paediatric care in the country will be available at Chelsea and Westminster when the new unit is complete.
" All donations, big or small, will have a tangible impact and will help us build something truly amazing that those living in our local communities can be very proud of."
The appeal has launched a JustGiving page and has already raised over £800,000 - 16% of its total - including an anonymous donation of £5,000 from grateful parents who thank the hospital for looking after their son six times over.
To learn more about the campaign, go to the Sunshine Appeal website or the JustGiving page.
