Thanks to the city of Liverpool Zoe’s Place has been saved

Liverpool West Derby MP Ian Byrne has announced the extraordinary success of the Save Zoe’s Place Campaign as the ambitious 30-day fundraising target of £5 million has been achieved, securing the future of Zoe’s Place Liverpool Baby Hospice in West Derby.

This remarkable achievement is a testament to the generosity and determination of Liverpool’s people and businesses, who united to keep Zoe’s Place open after it faced imminent closure.

The campaign was launched on 7 October after families and staff were devastated by news that the hospice would need to close before year-end due to insufficient funds.

With the future of the centre in jeopardy, along with the jobs of 41 staff members, Ian Byrne and the Trustees of Zoe’s Place mobilised the city, calling on everyone to help save the beloved institution.

The appeal sparked an overwhelming response, drawing support from across the city and beyond.

Local businesses, politicians, and celebrities, including Robbie Fowler, Jamie Webster, UFC fighters Paddy Pimblett and Meatball Molly, and comedians John Bishop and Adam Rowe, joined the effort. In an outpouring of community spirit, Liverpool residents organised countless fundraising events, from comedy nights to sponsored challenges.

Ian Byrne MP, said:

“Ever since that initial call to arms, the response from across the city has been incredible. I knew that with the backing of our fantastic local community, we could reach this target for the hospice, the wonderful staff, children, and families.”

Michelle Wright, Head of Care at Zoe’s Place, said:

“Words cannot express how I feel. Knowing we can continue to support our children and families means everything. The support from the clinical team, the fundraising, and the entire Liverpool community has been overwhelming.”

Matt Meaney, Head of Fundraising, said:

“The support from Liverpool and surrounding areas has been absolutely overwhelming! The families and staff team are incredibly grateful to every person, business, and organisation that supported us during this difficult time.”

Joan Stainsby, Executive Trustee, said:

“The financial generosity of Liverpool’s people and businesses has enabled us to continue providing vital care. Huge thanks to Ian Byrne MP, who worked tirelessly to ensure the success of this appeal.”

Ian Byrne added:

“It was a huge ask to raise £5 million in just a few weeks, but if any city could do it, Liverpool could. Liverpool has delivered, with people of all ages and backgrounds coming together to save Zoe’s. I could not be more proud to be a Scouser. This is Liverpool doing what Liverpool does best.”

Looking ahead, a new charity is being established to take responsibility for the hospice and build a world-class children’s facility. This charity will work alongside Zoe’s Place Trust to ensure a seamless transition and continued care.

Ian Byrne has also championed the cause in Parliament, highlighting the broader need for sustained funding for children’s hospices.

He tabled an Early Day Motion on Zoe’s Place, gathering support from 34 MPs, and led a Westminster Hall debate on children’s hospice funding on 30 October. Additionally, he introduced a Bill to review hospice funding and secure guaranteed access to palliative care for all children in need.

For more updates on Zoe’s Place click here.

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