Do Mountbatten Isle of Wight provide end-of-life care for children?

Although Mountbatten Isle of Wight is an adult hospice, we are committed to providing compassionate, person-centred end-of-life care for children and young people. In partnership with KissyPuppy, a charity founded by Aaron Rolf and Gemma Blamire in memory of their daughter Sophie, and the local NHS children’s community team, we ensure families facing the unimaginable receive the support they need, close to home.

Since 2013, we have offered a dedicated, flexible room within our inpatient unit, enabling children and young people with life-limiting illnesses to receive tailored end-of-life care. Delivered by the NHS children’s community team, this care is designed to meet each family’s unique needs.

We also provide a resting service for after-death care, giving families a safe, comforting space to spend precious time with their loved one.

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How can Mountbatten Isle of Wight support families when their child is dying?

While no care can take away the profound pain of losing a child, how we support children and their families in their final moments can make an extraordinary difference. Families have shared how having the ability to choose where their child receives care and when to say goodbye has been invaluable during such a heartbreaking time.

"Just to know that we had a choice at the end... That WE could choose where our child went and how long we could stay with her. That WE could decide when the time was right to say goodbye... At the lowest point in our family’s life when we felt so wholly alone, they made us feel that we were anything but." — Parents

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How can Mountbatten Isle of Wight support families after their child has died?

The resting space within the hospice provides families with a comforting, "home-from-home" environment. Here, they can access the expertise of the Mountbatten team while finding a sanctuary during an incredibly difficult time.

"The provision of a resting space at the hospice has given families a sanctuary... This choice, supported by the hospice team, is invaluable." — Children’s community team leader

Our bereavement support services are designed to help children and families navigate the complex emotions and challenges that arise after the loss of a loved one. We offer a compassionate and confidential space where you can find the support you need. Click HERE to find out more.

Mountbatten Isle of Wight is nationally recognised for excellence in children's end-of-life care.

Our innovative and compassionate approach has been nationally and locally recognised with several awards:

• Hospice UK Innovation Award (2015)
• Improving Services for Children and Young People Award, Isle of Wight NHS Trust (2016)
• Chairman’s Diamond Award, Isle of Wight NHS Trust (2016)

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How can you access Mountbatten Isle of Wight's care for children and families?

Getting the care you deserve is simple and completely free. Ask your GP or healthcare professional to refer you to Mountbatten's Coordination Centre. Click HERE to find out more. 

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Click HERE to read more about KissyPuppy, founded by Aaron Rolf and Gemma Blamire