THE stars are coming out to help celebrate the Julia’s House Christmas Cracker – an online concert to welcome in the festive season on Wednesday, December 2.
The Dorset & Wiltshire children’s hospice charity has announced that actress, comedian, impressionist and singer Debra Stephenson will co-host the Facebook Live event alongside Julia’s House CEO Martin Edwards.
Sponsored by Addo Food Group, the Julia’s House Christmas Cracker is a big night in for all the family to enjoy, featuring live music, Christmas readings and lots of fun.
Special guests include Guy Henry (Casualty) and Julia’s House patrons Chris Jarvis (CBeebies), actor Nigel Havers, best-selling author John le Carré and James McVey of pop sensations The Vamps, who will be leading a festive singalong.
There will also be a chance to meet some of the children and families that Julia’s House supports across Dorset and Wiltshire, hear their inspiring and moving stories and make your own life-changing difference by donating live.Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic the charity has been on hand to help the exhausted parents of children with life-limiting conditions take a break from 24/7 care, enabling them to feel less fearful, lonely and isolated.
The care provided is changing every day with visits taking place in families’ homes as well as video play sessions and story-time, as Julia’s House adapts to the needs of families in line with government guidelines.
By helping these children to stay safe and well at home, the charity is reducing the burden on the NHS as the winter months approach.
Julia’s House receives just five per cent government funding and relies on public donations, fundraising and Gifts in Wills for the rest of the money needed to run its vital service in Dorset and Wiltshire.
During 2020 the charity was forced to cancel many of its major fundraising events and close its chain of high street shops. As Covid-19 pandemic social distancing restrictions continue, the charity anticipates a challenging year ahead.
The Julia’s House Christmas Cracker takes place at 7.30pm on Wednesday, December 2 on the charity’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/JuliasHouseChildrensHospice
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here