Circus-themed transition day

August 15, 2022

“It’s about helping young people and their families get ready for the next step” – circus-themed transition day is a way of finding out more about adult hospices.

Young people and their families learnt circus skills while finding out more about transitioning to an adult hospice. The special event was for youngsters above the age of 13, currently receiving care at East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).

After turning 18, young people in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have the option to move onto an adult hospice like Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, in Shelford Bottom, where the transition day was held, or Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice, in Peterborough.

The aim of the day was to ‘start a conversation’ about transition with all young people at EACH’s Milton hospice. Five families attended.

“These days are a chance for young people and their families to learn more about adult hospices,” said EACH Group and Events Co-ordinator Jenna Kent.

“It can be very different to what they’ve been used and, understandably, there can be some nerves and anxiety.

“That’s why these days are so important because it’s a chance to find out more and answers questions but in a laidback, social environment. It helps prepare them and give a greater understanding of what to expect.

“It’s a way of starting the conversation and helping young people and their families get ready for the next step.”

There was a circus theme thanks to a visit from Eddie Konig, from the Cambridge Community Circus. He brought along equipment and ran workshops, including juggling and plate-spinning. Other highlights included live music, face painting, a skittles bowling game, Ted and Tom the miniature donkeys and a visit from a Pets in Therapy (PAT) dog.

Families enjoyed lunch and candy floss together, in addition to arts and crafts activities like making and painting musical instruments. Parents also had the chance to enjoy complimentary therapies, including massages.

“Kristie Foreman, who works on behalf of all three hospices, was on hand to help answer questions and we gave out leaflets, to help people learn more but in a very fun, informal setting,” added Jenna.

“We’ve had some lovely feedback and everyone enjoyed the experience, while meeting other families in the same boat.”

EACH supports families and cares for children and young people with life-threatening conditions.

It has three hospices, including Milton. The others are The Nook, near Norwich, and The Treehouse, in Ipswich.