W. Bro Alfie Buckland Provincial Grand Charity Steward gives this report.
“I was invited to attend an open day for freemasons from several Provinces who have raised funds through their Lodges and Chapters in support of this children’s Hospice. This event took place at Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice, Barnet on Sunday 26th May.
My masonic colleagues and I met the staff on arrival and were offered refreshments including a lovely buffet lunch. Laura Grundy (Community Engagement Manager) gave a presentation speech explaining the day to day running of the Hospice. Laura spoke with real passion and dedication and pointed out that the government provided only 7% of income towards the Hospice and the remaining finance is provided by charitable organisations of which a large portion is funded by freemasons.
One of the parents of a child in hospice care was invited to give a short speech that was very moving. He explained that for the first time after his son was being cared at the Hospice, he and his family were able to relax knowing that their son was in good hands and being well cared for. He also mentioned that he was able to spend precious time with his son including one to one sessions in the hydrotherapy room.
We then split up into four groups and were given a tour of the hospice which was something to behold and were shown a sensory room, a music room and the multi faith room. There was also family accommodation with a well equipped kitchen where families can stay while their child is being cared for.
I brought along some therapeutic colouring books (a new masonic initiative) for the children to use and some TLC teddies which were very much appreciated.
Finally, there was time for a photo opportunity with Laura Grundy (Community Engagement Manager)
It makes me feel very proud knowing that Middlesex freemasons are supporting such a wonderful charity”.
See – https://www.noahsarkhospice.org.uk/services/
and – https://www.noahsarkhospice.org.uk/about-us/
Noah’s Ark was established by Michael McInerney following the death of a child in his close family in a local hospital. Unhappy with the options available for the child, he launched Noah’s Ark’s care for children and families in 2006 after years of fundraising.
Below is an extract from the Charity’s web site which will give a further indication of the vision and mission of the Hospice:
“We are now one of the UK’s leading children’s hospices, providing care for over 350 children and their families every year. We believe that every baby, child and young person who is seriously unwell, and their loved ones, should have access to expert and compassionate palliative care from the point of diagnosis. Partnering with London’s NHS trusts and social care organisations, we have built a home, a community, and a team to make that difference.
Our Vision- For every baby, child and young person who is seriously unwell, and their loved ones, to have access to expert and compassionate palliative care from the point of diagnosis.
Our Mission– We help babies, children and young people with life-limiting or life threatening conditions, and their families, make the most of every day. And we support those who die young to do so in as much comfort as possible, surrounded by family. We are here to enable those we support to enjoy life as children, rather than as patients, as families, not just as Carers.
The Provincial Grand Charity Steward W. Bro Alfie Buckland and Hospice Community Engagement Manager – Laura Grundy.
W. Bro Alfie Buckland and other patrons.
