Astute recently had the privilege of visiting Jean’s House in Southampton, a home from home run by our Charity of the Year, Young Lives vs Cancer.
Jean’s House offers vital support for children and young people being treated for cancer at the nearby Southampton Hospital saving sometimes hundreds of miles in travel and expense when getting regular treatment.
In the face of a loved one’s cancer diagnosis, families encounter immense difficulties, including the fear of treatment, financial burdens, mental health struggles, and a lack of support systems that can disrupt their lives.
Jean’s House provides a remarkable solution by offering a free place to stay and support to families, ensuring they can stay close to their child during their cancer treatments.
Originally a BnB, Jean’s House has been transformed into a haven for families.
The house now features seven en-suite bedrooms, ensuring each family has a comfortable place to stay.
The spacious and impeccably clean house includes a large open-plan kitchen, living room, and dining room, providing a welcoming atmosphere.
Additionally, there is a games room where children and teenagers can relax and take a much-needed break from their treatments.
To further enhance the convenience and comfort for families, each occupying family is provided with their own cupboard stocked with essential supplies, such as toiletries and food.
This thoughtful provision helps alleviate some of the stress and challenges that families face on a daily basis.
During our visit, Samantha Bradshaw, Astute’s Head of People, had the opportunity to tour Jean’s House and meet the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to support families affected by cancer.
Samantha also used this time to donate items from our Food Bank at the office, witnessing first-hand the significant impact these contributions have on the families.
One critical ongoing need at Jean’s House is cleaning supplies. Ensuring a safe and hygienic environment is crucial for the well-being of the children and their families during their treatments.
From surfaces and sofas to bedding and curtains, maintaining immaculate cleanliness is of utmost importance.
Therefore, there can never be too many cleaning supplies to support this cause.
Astute will soon be returning to Jean’s House and setting up another Donation Bank, with a special focus on collecting cleaning supplies.
We recognise the importance of this ongoing need and are committed to providing support in any way we can.
How you can help Jean’s House and Young Lives vs Cancer
If you would like to join us in supporting Jean’s House and the Young Lives vs Cancer charity, here are some actions you can take:
- Donate to Young Lives vs Cancer.
- Set up a Donation Bank and arrange a visit to Jean’s House by contacting Lorraine Smith.
- Read more about Jean’s House to understand the incredible impact they have on the lives of children and families.
- Learn more about the Young Lives vs Cancer charity and their mission to support young people with cancer.
By taking these steps, we can all play a part in making a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing the challenges of childhood cancer.
About Jean’s House
Facilities at Jean’s House
- Seven ensuite bedrooms
- Two kitchen areas
- Two lounge areas
- Young persons’ lounge
- Large garden
- Free car parking
How Jean’s House got its name
Always a caring boy, Paul O’Gorman asked his parents, Eddie and Marion to help other children with leukaemia.
Paul died aged just 14 and only nine weeks after his initial diagnosis of leukaemia in 1986.
His sister Jean, despite her own battle with cancer, raised funds for children with leukaemia in her brother’s memory. Jean died just nine months later.
The O’Gormon family set up Children with Cancer UK charity and made a generous contribution towards Jean’s House which opened in 2018, hence the name.
Paul, Marion and Jean’s names have been given to a number of Young Lives vs Cancer Homes from Home across the UK.
