1,000 specialist Play Therapy sessions have been delivered in Chipping Campden by Campden Home Nursing, a major milestone for local bereavement support.
This landmark session recently took place at Jecca’s House in Chipping Campden. The service supports children aged four to thirteen who are experiencing, anticipating or coping with the loss or serious illness of someone close to them.
The occasion was marked by lighting a candle in the play therapy room to recognise the courage of every child who has stepped inside. Play Therapy Manager, Anita Dee and financial supporter, George Davies, reflected on the children and families supported over the years.
A service shaped by local need
Founded in 1990 to provide Hospice at Home care, free of charge, Campden Home Nursing introduced specialist Play Therapy after recognising the profound impact of bereavement on children.
Families often asked where they could turn for help. In response, the charity developed a structured therapeutic service, delivered by qualified practitioners.
From modest beginnings, the service has grown steadily. Demand has increased across North Gloucestershire, parts of Worcestershire and South Warwickshire as awareness has improved.
Professionally delivered. Philanthropically funded.
The Play Therapy service is delivered by qualified, registered practitioners. It is funded through the philanthropic support of George Davies through the George Davies Charitable Trust. It remains free of charge to families.
Sessions are delivered from:
- Jecca’s House, Chipping Campden, led by Anita Dee
- Bengeworth – Evesham, and Sedgeberrow, led by Natalie Clelland
- Stow on the Wold, led by Becky Yates
The service is managed by Anita Dee, a qualified Play Therapist with extensive experience in childhood bereavement and a former primary school teacher.
Anita said:
“Reaching 1,000 sessions is not about numbers. It represents 1,000 times when a child has been given a safe space to express feelings that are hard to articulate.
When we began, there was very little specialist bereavement support locally for younger children. Families often felt unsure where to turn.
Today, we provide therapeutic sessions in spaces designed specifically for children. Our hope is that every bereaved child in our community knows support is available and that they do not have to cope alone.”
Looking ahead
Charity CEO, Steven Marshall, said, “We are proud of achieving this milestone which reflects the scale of support delivered, and Campden Home Nursing’s continuing commitment to care for the whole family before and after a death.”
“We know this service is in demand in Gloucestershire and that so many children and families would benefit if we could expand the service. Further financial support is needed to be able to do this.”
For more information or to make a referral, email playtherapy@campdenhomenursing.org, visit www.CampdenHomeNursing.org or call 01386 840505.
Donations gratefully received
As a local, independent charity, this crucial service relies on donations. Community support ensures children continue to access specialist therapeutic care, free of charge. To donate and help sustain Play Therapy for the future, visit www.campdenhomenursing.org or call 01386 840505.
Feedback from parents of children we have supported
“The play therapy service has had a profoundly positive impact on my son’s wellbeing and future.”
“As a family, we have a much calmer little girl. She seems happier and more settled, and school has also noticed a positive change.”
