Built by and for our community, we proudly serve North Central London and Hertsmere as their local children’s hospice, while expanding our reach through partnerships across North West London.
Our care is always free of charge. We help families be families first – not patients and carers. Whether at home, in the community, or at The Ark in Barnet, we meet families where they are, offering choice, flexibility and compassionate support.
Because when a child is seriously unwell, it affects everyone. That’s why we care for siblings, parents and grandparents too, and continue supporting families for as long as they need us, even after a child has died.
We can’t change a diagnosis, but we can change what happens next.
Today:
Across our catchment area, an estimated 5,725 children may now be eligible for our support, but we are currently reaching only a fraction of these children.
Reducing isolation
Improving quality of life
Supporting treatment
Easing pressure on the NHS
Increase the number of children we support by at least 30%.
Reach families earlier, ideally from diagnosis.
Ensure equitable access, regardless of postcode, background or diagnosis.
We will:
Physical wellbeing
Emotional and psychological needs
Social and practical challenges
Spiritual and existential care
We cannot do this alone. We will work more closely with:
Hospitals and NHS partners
Schools and local authorities
Community and faith groups
Other hospices across London
Most importantly, we will work with families, not just for them, embedding co-production in everything we do.
Our people
Supporting, developing and valuing a diverse and inclusive workforce.
Digital transformation
Improving care through better systems, data, and thoughtful use of technology - always protecting confidentiality and trust.
Sustainability
Embedding environmentally responsible practices across our work.
Financial resilience
Growing income and diversifying funding so we can continue delivering free care to families.
Together, we can change what happens next. No family should face a serious diagnosis alone.
We create space for:
Joy
Play
Connection
Precious memories
For many families, we are their only respite. For some, The Ark is the only place they feel safe outside home or hospital.
We are part of a wider movement – supporting a shift towards more compassionate, community-based care. Because every child deserves a life not defined by illness.
