Hospice visit for city MP

Former Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg has been asked by a teenager at a South Yorkshire hospice to look into how disabled people could be better supported into jobs.

During a visit to Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice in North Anston, Rotherham, the Sheffield MP was also asked to address the issue of accessibility for wheelchair users.

He spoke to two teenagers who receive support from the hospice, which helps and cares for children with life limiting conditions.

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Saki Roussos and Courtney Allen chatted with the MP during a visit to the hospice he organised to learn about its work, how many people it supports and how money is raised to keep its doors open.

The MP also met families who told him how the hospice helps with respite care, sibling support and counselling.

He also spoke to staff and volunteers about their work.

Claire Rintoul, Chief Executive at Bluebell Wood, said: “It was great to welcome Nick and talk to him about our work.

“Many of our children and families are from his constituency area and it’s important for us to share information about the range of services we can provide for families facing incredibly tough times.

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“All of our families were pleased to be able to chat with him about several things. Courtney and Saki especially got a lot from the visit.”

The hospice currently supports around 250 children and young adults with life shortening conditions.

It receives 10 per cent of its £4 million annual costs from the Government and relies on fundraising for the rest.

Visit www.bluebellwood.org to find out more.