Helen and Douglas House

Tucked away on Magdalen Road, Helen and Douglas House whispers a story of remarkable compassion. Helen and Douglas House isn’t just a building. It’s a beacon of hope, the world’s first children’s hospice. Opened in 1982, Helen House emerged from the friendship between Sister Frances Dominica and the parents of Helen Worswick, a seriously ill little girl. Helen’s family needed respite care. They needed support. This need became the driving force behind Helen House. It offered a home away from home, tailored to each child’s needs. Helen House provides specialized medical care for children with life-shortening conditions, from birth to 18 years old. It has eight beds and four family flats. Imagine a spa, a games room, a music room, overflowing with toys and books. This is Helen House, a place of comfort and joy amidst challenging circumstances. Registered children’s nurses, carers, a physiotherapist, play specialists, and a dedicated Family Support & Bereavement Team provide round-the-clock care. Years later, another need arose. Young adults with life-shortening conditions needed a space designed for their age group. In 2004, Douglas House opened its doors. Bright, airy, and vibrant, Douglas House caters to young adults aged 16 to 35. It offers seven beds, a Jacuzzi, a games room, a music room, and even a bar. Here, young adults can connect with others facing similar challenges. They are encouraged to live life to the fullest. Helen and Douglas House recognizes the importance of family support. Their dedicated team provides emotional, spiritual, and social support to parents, partners, siblings, and other family members. This support extends from the first stay at the hospice through bereavement. Helen and Douglas House is more than just medical care. It’s a place where families find solace, support, and a sense of community. It’s a testament to the power of compassion and the enduring spirit of hope.