West Derby’s cherished Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice is in the midst of a critical campaign to secure its future. With the lease on its current site set to expire next year, the hospice is facing a monumental challenge to raise £5 million for a new facility. Despite these looming challenges, there is a sense of hope among the staff and supporters, as the hospice is “heading rapidly in the right direction,” according to its Head of Fundraising, Matt Meaney.
As the only baby-specific hospice in the region, Zoe’s Place provides palliative, respite, and end-of-life care to infants aged 0-5, helping families navigate some of the most challenging circumstances imaginable. The services offered by the hospice are essential, not only to the children who need around-the-clock care but also to the families who rely on the emotional and practical support provided.
With plans to close the current facility underway, there is an urgent need to secure new premises by November 9, a deadline that looms heavy over the entire campaign. While there has been notable progress in the fundraising effort, the charity is not quite there yet. However, with a renewed push and community support, there is hope that Zoe’s Place will be able to continue its essential work in the city.
The Critical Need for a New Home
The lease on the hospice’s current building will soon expire, forcing Zoe’s Place to relocate or face closure. According to Matt Meaney, who has been at the forefront of the fundraising campaign, the hospice is not just battling to raise money—it is battling time. Without the funds for a new building, the hospice will have no choice but to cease operations in West Derby.
The £5 million goal would secure a new, purpose-built facility that would allow the hospice to not only continue its work but also potentially expand its services. “We’re not there yet, but we are heading rapidly in the right direction,” Meaney said during a recent interview. His optimism is fueled by the ongoing community support and the dedication of staff and volunteers. However, he remains realistic about the challenges ahead.
“The situation is incredibly urgent,” he continued, “but we’ve seen some great momentum recently. We’re receiving donations, and local businesses and individuals are stepping up. Still, we have a long way to go, and time is running out.”
Community Response and Fundraising Efforts
The fundraising campaign has sparked a remarkable response from the local community. Events, charity drives, and individual donations have all played a significant role in boosting the hospice’s chances of survival. Schools have organized bake sales, local businesses have set up charity partnerships, and countless individuals have donated what they can.
Some of the larger fundraising events have attracted widespread attention, with many seeing it as their personal duty to ensure the survival of Zoe’s Place. A recent charity run raised thousands of pounds, and more events are planned in the coming weeks, including a gala dinner and an auction featuring donated items from local celebrities.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support,” Meaney shared. “People really understand what Zoe’s Place means to this community, and they’re doing everything they can to help us reach our target.”
However, despite this positive momentum, Meaney is quick to point out that there is still a substantial gap to close before the November deadline. “We’re grateful for every single donation, no matter the size. Every pound counts right now. But we also need more substantial contributions if we’re going to make it.”
The Impact of Zoe’s Place on Families
The significance of Zoe’s Place goes far beyond the physical care provided to the children. For the families, the hospice offers a lifeline during some of the most difficult moments they will ever face. Many parents describe Zoe’s Place as a home away from home—a place where they can find comfort and solace, knowing that their child is receiving expert care.
One mother, whose daughter has been attending Zoe’s Place for the past year, explained how much the hospice has meant to her family. “I can’t even describe how important Zoe’s Place has been for us. It’s not just the medical care; it’s the emotional support, the understanding, and the love. I don’t know what we’d do without it.”
For many families, Zoe’s Place offers a break from the unrelenting pressures of caring for a seriously ill child. It provides them with a chance to recharge, knowing that their child is in a safe, loving environment.
“Zoe’s Place is there when you need it the most,” the mother added. “It’s not just a building; it’s a lifeline. We need it to stay open.”
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Hope
As the November 9 deadline approaches, the pressure is mounting. The hospice staff is working tirelessly to keep up the fundraising momentum, knowing that every donation brings them closer to securing the future of Zoe’s Place. The task is monumental, but so is the spirit of the campaign.
“Time is not on our side,” Meaney acknowledged. “But neither is giving up. We’re seeing such an incredible response from the community, and that gives us hope. We just need to keep pushing.”
There are already contingency plans in place should the campaign fall short, but those plans are less than ideal. “We may have to downsize or relocate temporarily,” Meaney admitted. “But we want to avoid that if possible. Our goal is to continue offering the same level of care and support that we’ve always provided.”
Zoe’s Place has been a beacon of hope for countless families over the years, and now, it is the hospice that needs help. As the fundraising campaign intensifies, everyone involved remains hopeful that the necessary funds will be raised in time.
The next few weeks will be crucial in determining the future of Zoe’s Place. With the clock ticking down, it’s clear that every effort is being made to save this vital service. As Meaney concluded, “We’re not done yet. We still have a lot of work to do, but with the community’s support, I believe we can make it.”
Supporting the Campaign
For those looking to contribute to the fundraising efforts, there are several ways to get involved. Donations can be made directly through the hospice’s website, and various local businesses are hosting fundraising events. Whether through individual donations or by attending events, every bit of support helps inch Zoe’s Place closer to its £5 million goal.
For Zoe’s Place, this campaign is about more than just bricks and mortar—it’s about securing a future for the countless families who rely on the hospice’s vital services. As the deadline draws nearer, one thing is clear: the fight to save Zoe’s Place is far from over, but with continued support, its future remains hopeful.
