A Nurse’s Plea in Support of the “Jessie May Needs You” Appeal

As a Jessie May nurse, I’m used to working behind closed doors. Much of what we do isn’t visible to the public, but it is deeply felt by the families we support. That’s why I’m speaking up now. Jessie May’s Appeal is more than just a campaign; it’s a lifeline.

The funding crisis we’re facing isn’t just affecting organisations. The families we support are at risk of losing the care they so vitally need. The rising cost of running a hospice-at-home service reflects the financial challenges so many are facing in their daily lives. The thought of having to care for your vulnerable child while essential support is reduced due to financial pressures is nothing short of overwhelming.

Knowing that Jessie May can continue supporting families in their own homes – many of whom are largely isolated due to the demanding nature of their child’s care – is incredibly important. The care we provide is not only essential; it’s deeply valued by the families we support. This is what makes Jessie May so special.

We have the time that many other organisations simply can’t offer, and it’s this ability to go above and beyond that makes all the difference. Families go above and beyond every single day to care for their vulnerable children – often while being incredibly vulnerable themselves.

Being welcomed into someone’s home is both a privilege and, understandably, a burden for families. It takes trust. Over the years, I’ve heard firsthand how strongly children and their families feel that Jessie May supports and advocates for them, truly listens to them, and works to ensure their home remains a safe and comforting space.

We are the only children’s hospice-at-home service in our region, which means we truly are a lifeline for these children and their families. Children feel safe and secure in their own homes, surrounded by familiarity. They are less anxious, less fearful, and more able to express themselves in a way that feels true to who they are. Providing care at home allows families to maintain as much normality as possible and gives the child the opportunity to be part of everyday family life.

Without the help Jessie May offers – care visits, emotional support, even just someone to talk to – these families are left alone in the dark. And they rarely ask for help. That’s the most heartbreaking part. They carry on, day after day, not because they have to, but because their love for their child demands it.

The truth is, Jessie May is essential. Without us, many of these families would be navigating this journey entirely alone. And I don’t think people always realise how much that costs them – emotionally, physically, and mentally.

Our Crisis Appeal is not just about keeping our services running; it’s about preventing children and families from reaching breaking point. Extra funding would enable us to continue providing the practical and emotional support that is disappearing elsewhere – support that many families now only receive when they are already in crisis.

And then there’s the NHS 10-Year Plan. We want to continue contributing to it by supporting vulnerable children and their families at home, in a safe and compassionate environment, through multidisciplinary collaboration. This approach not only reduces pressure on hospitals but also improves quality of life for children on their palliative care journey. Research and experience tell us that when given the choice, most children want to be cared for at home.

The support we’ve received from the community during this appeal has been overwhelmingly moving. It’s humbling. People often call nurses heroes, but the real heroes are the families and carers who show up every single day, no matter how exhausted or overwhelmed they feel. We’re simply asking for your help so that we can keep helping them. That’s the very least they deserve. Being able to give them the time and space to be a family together and build their resilience for the inevitably difficult future, isn’t sad, it’s wonderful.

If you’re thinking about donating to our appeal, please know this: every single pound counts. You may never meet the child or family your donation supports – but I will. And I can promise you: they are worthy. They are strong. And they are quietly struggling.

Please, don’t let them struggle in silence. Help us be the voice, the presence, the support they so desperately need.

No one should ever have to face this journey alone – especially not a child.

Donate here now – Jessie May Needs You