Sue Johnston joins families to support Claire House Christmas campaign

Today, Claire House Children’s Hospice launched its heartfelt Christmas campaign featuring local families talking about the difference the charity makes to them.

The children’s hospice aims to raise vital funds to help it be there for the seriously and terminally ill babies and children it cares for in Merseyside, at Christmas and throughout the year.

Its Christmas advert, created by Liverpool-based creative and production agency Zut, features the voice of TV star Sue Johnston, has animated scenes of Liverpool and Merseyside, explaining how the charity supports families through some of the toughest times of their lives whilst making magical memories.

​​​Sue, famed for roles in shows such as Brookside and The Royle Family, said: “It’s a real privilege to be part of this year’s Claire House Christmas campaign to help families who are facing tough times. I’m in awe of what this wonderful charity does for babies, children and young adults in Merseyside and beyond.

“It warms my heart to know that together, we can bring some joy and smiles to children’s faces, not only at Christmas, but all year round. Every donation, no matter how small, helps to make this a magical time for those who need it the most. I believe that spreading love and kindness is what Christmas is all about!”

This year’s festive campaign features the moving stories of four families from across Merseyside and Cheshire, who desperately rely on Claire House.

Mum Francesca Alfonso, from Hunts Cross in Liverpool, whose 10-year-old daughter comes to the children’s hospice, said: “We never really know how many Christmases we’ll have with Sienna, so we want to make every Christmas count. And Claire House makes that possible.

“Having a child who's terminally ill is hard work. I can't just ask anybody to help because they don't know what she needs in the same way. But Claire House gives me that relief. They’ve become an extension of our family.”

Four-year-old Isla Molloy’s mum Fiona, from Bootle, agreed the charity is a lifeline. She said: “Last year, Isla was in hospital for nearly the whole of December. But Claire House was there for us, and they came onto the ward to support us. They focused on us being able to make memories despite us being in the hospital.”