Children with life-threatening illnesses are one step closer to a new, purpose-built hospice thanks to a fundraising week at Fornham House near Bury St Edmunds.

All residents took part in a Butterfly Week at the historic home in Fornham St Martin in aid of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices’ (EACH) £3million Treehouse appeal.

Fornham House activities assistant, Marion Mason, who is also a volunteer for the Stowmarket Friends of EACH, said the theme was chosen as the butterfly’s life represents that of a terminally-ill child – short and beautiful.

During the week, residents at Fornham House, which is run by East Anglia’s independent care provider Healthcare Homes, paid to take part in activities like Butterfly Bingo, where they had to guess where the insect would land on a grid.

They also painted butterflies as well as took part in flower arranging sessions with a butterfly theme, while they enjoyed butterfly buns and tea together.

Marion said: “The residents really enjoyed the week, as there was something for them all to take part in.  It was nice to see the elderly people helping youngsters in need.  We were very happy with our fundraising total, which came to around £250.”

She added: “The Treehouse appeal aims to build a purpose-built hospice in Ipswich for children from Suffolk and North Essex.  This will replace the current bungalow, which is inadequate for the children’s hospice care demands in the area. The new hospice would include hydrotherapy and music therapy, as well as a separate area for end-of-life care.

“EACH needs to raise £3 million for the appeal, all of which has to come from donations.  So every little helps and I know the charity really appreciates what we have done at Fornham House.”

Healthcare Homes Chief Executive, Richard Clough, praised staff and residents at Fornham House for their fundraising efforts.  He said: “EACH is such a worthy cause and I am glad to see Fornham House has been able to give a helping hand to the Treehouse appeal.”

Fornham House, which is over 270 years old, has a rating of ‘Excellent’ from the Care Quality Commission.

In addition to Fornham House, Healthcare Homes has another 22 homes, Manorcourt Homecare and daycare centres under its management.

For more information about Fornham House, please call 01284 768327.