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Children's hospice welcomes patron Peta Cavendish

Ashlea Tracey
BBC News, Isle of Man
James Brew Photography Lady Peta Cavendish speaks to a guest at the welcome event. She has long dark hair, blue eyes, and wears a black top and smiles.James Brew Photography
The charity said the appointment would help raise awareness about the facility

The Isle of Man's children's hospice has welcomed Lady Peta Cavendish as its new patron.

Part of Hospice Isle of Man, Rebecca House in Douglas has provided care and support to children with life-limiting conditions and their families since 2008.

The wife of Manx cyclist Sir Mark Cavendish, Lady Cavendish said as a mum-of-five she was proud to support the "lifeline" service and its work "in any way I can".

Vicky Wilson from the charity said their new patron's "passion for family and her deep understanding of the challenges parents face will be invaluable to our work".

James Brew Photography Lady Peta Cavendish stands next to Chris Hall hospice chairman. They both smile. She has long, dark hair and wears a black top. Mr Hall wears a navy suit jacket and blue and white striped shirt, which is open at the collar.James Brew Photography
Pictured with hospice chairman Chris Hall, Lady Cavendish said she was "proud" to take on the role

The care offered at the hospice ranges from short-term respite stays to end of life care for children under 18.

Lady Cavendish said: "Family is a huge part of my life, and anyone who is raising children knows how demanding it can be.

"If your child has health challenges then this adds another, very significant, layer of complexity, stress and emotional toll, so you need all the support you can get."

The free of charge services were "literally a lifeline" for families on the Isle of Man, she said.

James Brew Photography Lady Peta Cavendish stands on green grass outside, in between to three hospice nurses in blue and purple tunics and Vicky Wilson who wears bright pink trousers and a colourful top.James Brew Photography
Lady Peta Cavendish was formally welcomed into the role at an event at the facility

Hospice Isle of Man confirmed in January its annual running costs were expected to rise by £1m to £7.8m by 2026.

The charity said Lady Cavendish's involvement would help "ensure that Rebecca House can continue to make a positive impact, offering families a place of comfort, understanding, and care".

Ms Wilson said: "Peta's commitment to supporting our charity will help raise awareness and continue the critical support we provide to families in the Isle of Man".

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