Richard House Children’s Hospice in East London kick-started the festive season with a Christmas party for over 100 life-limited children and their families last week.

The event, run by the Hospice which provides palliative care to more than 300 children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions across London, included an appearance from Father Christmas and his elves, complete with gifts for the children.

The reindeer were a particular hit and the children were ready with their reindeer food. There were stories and magic tricks to keep the children in the festive spirit, plus a choir singing reggae-style Christmas songs as the families feasted on a buffet lunch followed by Snowmen and Christmas tree cakes made by the hospice’s staff.

Luxury children’s footwear brand, Young Soles, celebrated a recently formed partnership with Richard House by providing a free pair of shoes to each of the children attending.

Young Soles’ Founder, Louise Shill, commented on the day:

We’re so happy that we’ve been able to form a partnership with Richard House and have been able to support this wonderful annual celebration, bringing smiles to the faces of these children, their families and everyone who works at the hospice.

Head of Corporate Engagements and Partnerships at Richard House, Helena Burley, added:

I would like to say a huge thank you to the team at Young Soles for donating such exceptionally high quality footwear to our children and families. They are as thrilled with this donation as are we and appreciate their generosity and thoughtfulness.

Photo: Richard House