THE mayors of Southampton and Eastleigh have helped bring some festive cheer to families staying at Ronald McDonald House.
The charity is close to the heart of Eastleigh dignitary Cllr Adam Manning who was staying there with wife Alison when they lost their 12-year-old son Ben in January.
He was joined by Cllr Jacqui Rayment, the Lord Mayor of Southampton who met families and helped dress the tree for Christmas.
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The Decorate in December event was one of 12 taking place simultaneously in Ronald McDonald Houses around the UK. The special annual occasion is an opportunity for all houses, which provide free accommodation to families with a child in hospital, to ‘deck the halls’ on the same day.
Cllr Manning, now a regular supporter of the charity, said: "Immediately after Ben died, we were obviously completely shattered and feeling utterly desolate. We were in a metaphorical wasteland but the staff at Ronald McDonald House were very sympathetic, caring, and unobtrusive. They made it clear that we could stay for as long as we needed to. There was no pressure.
"We were delighted to be back in the house for Decorate in December. It’s looking as friendly and welcoming as ever. We’ve loved the festive fun and decorating the tree."
Cllr Rayment added: "Southampton’s lucky to have a facility like Ronald McDonald House. Having a child in hospital is difficult at the best of times but for families and parents who live far away, this amazing facility takes away some of their concerns and allows them to be on hand, day and night.
"I’d like to thank everyone at the Ronald McDonald House Charities UK for making it such a homely and welcoming environment, a place to spend quality family time and make special Christmas memories together."
Ronald McDonald House Charities UK is an independent charity, which operates 14 Houses across England, Wales, and Scotland, providing free ‘home away from home’ accommodation. The houses keep families together, close to their children in hospital.
Ronald McDonald House Southampton has 53 ensuite bedrooms, providing accommodation for the families of children being treated at Southampton Children’s Hospital and Princess Anne Hospital. 699 families stayed in the House in 2021.
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