Schools build a ‘Wall of Hope’

The appeal, in partnership with U105, will see local schools bidding to raise over £1,000 each towards building a new state of the art hospice at Somerton Road, Belfast, helping to build ‘Walls of Hope’ for future generations.

At the launch, U105’s Maurice Jay spoke to teachers and pupils from over 50 schools that have pledged to raise at least £1,000 for the appeal, and told them how their efforts will help. Money raised by schools for the ‘Wall of Hope’ appeal will be used to fund the Relatives and Children’s Play area within the new hospice.

Among the schools in attendance at the launch were Hazelwood Integrated College, Glengormley Integrated Primary, Mossley Primary and Glengormley High School, where staff and pupils have already raised nearly £4,000.

Speaking about the ‘Wall of Hope’ initiative, John Phillips, Community Fundraiser at Northern Ireland Hospice said: “The response from local schools to the appeal has been outstanding. The money raised will help create a special space within the new hospice, an area where families can spend time together and play, hopefully providing some joy and comfort at such a difficult time.

“All schools involved should be very proud. Their legacy will be a new hospice fit for the future, one that can provide high quality care to local adults with terminal illnesses and their families. I hope that teachers and pupils will have great fun raising the money. There are prizes for the most inspirational schools, with winners selected on their motivations for getting involved, creative fundraising ideas and inspirational stories.”

Three winning schools will be chosen at the end of March 2014. All schools taking part in the appeal will have their school crests added to the ‘Tapestry of Hope’ which will be displayed in the new hospice and they will also be invited to visit before the building officially opens.

Stephen Mulligan, principal of Mossley Primary, is delighted that his school is part of the ‘Wall of Hope’ appeal.

“I’m really excited about this opportunity for our pupils to help with the rebuild of Somerton House. NI Hospice cares for many families in Newtownabbey so lots of our pupils know someone who has been supported by the local charity. As the money raised will go towards the Relatives and Children’s Play area, it’s extremely rewarding to know that as a school we are helping children who are going through an incredibly tough time,” he commented.

For more information about Northern Ireland Hospice, the rebuild of Somerton House and the ‘Wall of Hope’ appeal, log on to www.nihospice.org or call 028 9078 1836.