Share your story
Tell your child’s story to help generate vital funds and support the hospice
Why your stories are important to the hospice
As a charity, we rely almost entirely on public donations to fund our work. The most powerful way to encourage supporters to donate, or fundraise, is to tell the stories of the families we support, like yours.
If you’d like to help us with this, we’d be very grateful, but there is no obligation. You can see some of our previous stories, told in multiple ways, by visiting our social media pages or exploring our blogs and stories pages.
How we collect and store your story
With your consent, we will capture your story in various formats, including written words or audio recordings, photographs and/or videos taken at the hospice or at hospice events, or with that which is shared with us, such as personal photos or written reflections.
Data protection: Your personal data will be stored securely and processed in line with GDPR and our privacy policy.
Consent remains valid while we maintain regular contact and/or until circumstances change. If we have not been in touch for 3+ years, we may need to re-confirm consent. If we wish to use your story in a new way, we’ll ask for additional consent. Your story media will only be shared in accordance with any preferences/exclusions you apply.
Your story may be shared in:
- Our printed and digital materials (e.g. newsletters, leaflets, posters) in the hospice, at events or in our charity shops,
- Our website and social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X, LinkedIn, YouTube),
- Local press (print, radio, online) and with approved third parties such as fundraisers or partner organisations,
- Internal communications, such as staff training, team briefings, or internal reports and updates,
- Family communications, such as newsletters or updates shared with other hospice families,
- Research and evaluation purposes, to help us better understand and improve the care we provide.
If you require a printed copy of our consent form, or require a copy in an alternative language please email [email protected].
Tell us your marketing consent preferences
Please give your consent by completing the form below. If you have preferences or wish to decline consent, please ensure this is completed on the form so we have these details on file.
Family Consent - Helen & Douglas House
If you're supported by, or been supported by Helen & Douglas House, you can give your consent by completing the form below. You must be over 16 or a parent/guardian of anyone younger. You can specify your preferences/exclusions on the form. Before you start make sure you have: child’s name, DOB and condition, and details of parent/guardians including email, phone and address.
Did you know?
Gathering content for your story and media is done over the course of your journey with us. This may be months, years or longer and may continue after you leave our service. Your stories are incredibly powerful, and we value you and your sharing preferences throughout the whole process.
Frequently asked questions
Why do you need consent from me? To share any stories or media about your child’s story, we require parental/guardian consent (if the child is under 16) or the young person’s consent if aged 16+ with capacity. Your completed consent will give us a record of your permissions and preferences. If circumstances change, we will update your details accordingly.
How do I give my consent? The best way to confirm your consent is through our consent form online (above). When you first visit Helen & Douglas House, we will ask you to sign the consent online. We also have printed forms available if requested (ADD LINK)
Consent leaflet: Available here
How long is consent valid for? Consent remains valid while we maintain regular contact and/or until circumstances change. If we have not been in touch for over three years, we may need to reconfirm consent. If we wish to use your story in a new way, we’ll ask for additional consent. Your story media will only be shared in accordance with any preferences/exclusions you apply.
What information do I need to give? Initially, we need the name of the child, personal details and any consent preferences. During a hospice visit, or at other hospice events or occasions, we may take photos and write stories to demonstrate how we care for and support children. If you wish, we may also ask for more information, for example, ask you to share your story or talk to us about specific topics.
Where will my story be shared? Stories are featured across our online and offline (printed) media, as well as with those who may support us.
What if I change my mind? Can I withdraw consent? You can update, amend or withdraw your consent preferences at any time. Please email [email protected].
How do you store my data? Your personal data will be stored securely and processed in line with GDPR and our service user privacy policy.
Tell your story like mum Leanne has told Lily-Mae’s story
“For nearly nine years, my life was dedicated to Lily-Mae and making sure that she was happy and safe. The way that she had passed away was just so quick. There was no time to prepare anything.”
Leanne, Lily-Mae’s mum
With our help and support, Lily-Mae was able to get the support and care she needed during her short life. Her mum Leanne got the support she needed as a carer, and then at the end of her daughters’ life. This care continues even after a child has died, as our Family Support and Bereavement Team have been working with Leanne since she lost Lily-Mae providing her with bereavement support.
We can’t do this without you
Families like yours, who come to Helen & Douglas House, depend on our care and support us. We are here to help them face everyday challenges during their children’s short lives and to cope with living with a child with a life-shortening or terminal illness. By sharing your story, you will be telling supporters about the expert care and support you receive, which is made possible by their donations.