New Multi-Sensory Room Opens

We recently opened a new multi-sensory room, creating a welcoming and adaptable space to support children, young adults and their families.

The project has been made possible thanks to a £32,186 grant from Smurfit Westrock, a long-standing supporter of the hospice. The funding enabled a complete transformation of the previous sensory room, which after more than 10 years was no longer fit for purpose.

The new multi-sensory environment includes a bubble wall, fibre optic lighting, LED features, a large specialist swing, and supportive beanbags. The space has been carefully designed to be fully inclusive and flexible which offers both a calming and stimulating setting depending on the needs of each child or family.

Amy Lee, from the Play Team at Claire House, said: “The sensory room is an amazing addition to the hospice, making our play sessions more accessible and inclusive for the children and young adults we support. I love that we can adapt it from a calm, storytelling space to a stimulating play therapy area. I’m excited to start using it and the equipment designed just for our children.”

The room will be used by a wide range of people supported by Claire House’s Wirral hospice, including children receiving care, their siblings, and families. It also offers important therapeutic benefits, with physiotherapy teams saying it helps both physically and emotionally. As well as medical and sensory support, the space will play a vital role in helping families spend quality time together and create lasting memories, including during end-of-life care.

Lawren Harris, Play & Activities Team Leader, said the room’s flexibility means it can be used in lots of different ways, offering a safe, supportive space for play, relaxation and precious time together.

Claire House has worked closely with the Smurfit Westrock for many years. This funding reflects a continued shared commitment to improving the lives of local children and families. With links to offices in Liverpool and a national funding network, the Foundation identified the project as a key opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

This much-needed addition means Claire House can keep offering high‑quality, inclusive care in a space that works for the families who rely on it.