Royal representative meets Rainbows families

The Queen’s designated representative in Nottingham and his deputies visited Rainbows hospice for youngsters with life-limiting conditions and to learn about the care it provides to families across the East Midlands.

Vice Lord Lieutenant Tim Richmond, OBE, visited the Loughborough-based charity – the only specialist care centre of its kind across the region – and chatted with staff and families.

The delegation viewed the facilities before meeting with the families to hear first-hand how the hospice offers a range of care and support services. They included Nottingham mum Sarah Raven, whose six-year-old son Jayden has a rare genetic condition which means he may never reach adulthood.

Sarah said: “When Jayden was first diagnosed it was like a hammer blow – and I didn’t know where to turn. I felt very isolated. But Rainbows is a haven; a place of comfort and support. I try not to think of the future. It scares me. But whatever it holds, I do know it is a little brighter with the specialist care and support from Rainbows.”

The charity offers vital support to families across six counties when they need it most, including those from Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Derbyshire, Rutland, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire.

Mr Richmond said: “It has been incredible to see the great care, professionalism and dedication that is made available to families across Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands here at Rainbows. 

“To meet some of those families and hear first-hand of the support offered to them has been moving. The facilities, the staff and the services are amazing. It has been a wonderful and inspirational morning,” he added.

Mr Richmond (standing, right) is pictured with Nottingham mum, Sarah Raven, Rainbows CEO David Strudley, son Jayden (six) and Hospice Care Assistant Eleanor Clark.