Claire House Sibling Ambassadors support the next generation of brothers and sisters

A group of inspiring young people supported by Claire House Children’s Hospice are using their own experiences to support siblings of seriously and terminally ill children. 

From helping at events to supporting peer groups, Claire House’s Sibling Ambassadors are using their personal journeys to bring understanding, compassion and hope to others who have a brother or sister receiving care from the children’s hospice. 

As well as helping people to make friends and have fun, they are supporting them to build resilience and find a sense of belonging while navigating an often difficult journey. 

Amy Loudon, 25, is one of the young adults making a difference.  She understands the challenges that siblings can face because her sister, Mia was cared for by Claire House. Mia had a rare genetic condition that affected her brain development, leaving her unable to walk, talk or eat. Sadly, she died aged 15 in March 2019. 

Amy said: “Not many people understand what life is like having a sibling with a life-limiting condition. We grow up surrounded by hospitals, specialist equipment, appointments and medical professionals in our home. Playing in the hospital art room becomes the norm.

“Families can become split in half, attempting to balance life at home while also living out of a hospital. Meanwhile, your parents are doing their best to ensure you don’t notice a difference in routine, despite the emotional battle they’re facing themselves.”

As well as finding strength through shared experiences, Amy feels passionately about giving a voice to siblings connected to the hospice.

She said: “I’d often go into school and wonder what my friends did the night before - dinner, TV, playing outside perhaps, and I’d compare this to my evening and think about how different our lives were - not that I would change a thing.

“The events, groups and activities Claire House runs for siblings are so important, especially for those who often fall through the cracks.

"As a Sibling Ambassador, I hope that one day, a brother or sister tells me about their evening surrounded by doctors, SATS machines and oxygen tanks, and I’ll reassure them I’ve been there too.”

Claire House has found that just being with others like themselves is helping to break down barriers for siblings supported by the hospice. By attending events and arranging days out, siblings can talk to people of a similar age who can relate to their situation, regardless of where they are in their journey.

Finley Wild, 20, has also volunteered and finds the young people he supports are often surprised to hear he went on a similar journey when growing up.

Finley said: “People are often amazed that an adult like me was once in their position and has been through the same experiences. Siblings are now starting to know us by name and look forward to seeing us at events.

“In the same way, we look forward to seeing and supporting them on their days out. We are all brothers or sisters of children supported by Claire House - some are still receiving support, but others have sadly passed away.”

Alex Wheeler, Therapeutic Support Worker for Claire House, has been the driving force behind the initiative, ensuring the young volunteers can provide the best possible experience for the families they work with.

He said: "Welcoming both old and new faces as Sibling Ambassadors has given us a real sense of pride.

"It makes a huge difference, giving children comfort, reassurance and hope by showing them what’s possible from someone who truly understands their journey.”

With 15 young people now giving up their free time to help, the impact of their support continues to grow.

Alex added: "Seeing them stand up in front of schools or local businesses to share their story and explain what Claire House means to them and their family, you simply cannot put a price on that. There is nothing more powerful.”