AN EMOTIONAL artwork made entirely using the handprints of children who are dying or seriously ill has been unveiled – sending a powerful message to the Prime Minister.
The striking portrait of Sir Keir Starmer has been made using hundreds of orange handprints of children cared for by Acorns Children’s Hospice. Behind it is an urgent call to save vital funding that is under threat for hospices across England.
The evocative artwork titled Hands for Hope was revealed outside the Houses of Parliament to mark the launch of a hard-hitting campaign calling on the Government to guarantee long-term funding for children’s hospices.
Without it, Acorns fears it may be forced to turn away a seriously ill child for the first time in its 37-year history.
Trevor Johnson, chief executive at Acorns, said: “We’re at a turning point in children’s hospice care. There is genuine concern we may have to make heartbreaking decisions, which is why we’ve taken this emotional step. We need the Government to act now so children and families don’t worry that the care they deserve is going to be lost.
“The children and families are at the heart of everything we do and we’re making this plea on their behalf. We want Sir Keir to understand the serious impact if the Government doesn’t take action now.”
The artwork was on prominent display at iconic locations around Central London including outside Big Ben and the House of Commons, to take the message directly to the Prime Minister himself.
More than £26million was received by children’s hospices in England from the Children’s Hospice Grant, with £2.2million being given to Acorns, but it runs out in eight months time with no indication it will continue beyond March 2026.
The Government did also share £100m capital funding between adult and children’s hospices, but this cannot be used to pay for a single nurse or provide a single minute of care.
Trevor added: “Without this money, we risk having to make heartbreaking decisions. Our message is that the future of hospice care is in the hands of the Prime Minister, who has the power to ensure that all children’s hospices, including Acorns, receive long-term sustainable funding.
“I have personally invited Sir Keir to meet with me, or to visit one of our hospices and to see for himself the vital care we provide to children and families facing the darkest time of their lives. I am still awaiting his response.
“One thing is certain. Without this funding we will have to cut services. Our message to the Prime Minister and the Government is simple. It’s now in your hands.”
The charity is calling on the public to support the campaign, by raising their hand and sharing Acorns plea on social media. They can also sign their name for a free window sticker to display.
To raise your hand and support the campaign click here.
