Guest Blog Post – CHSW Christmas Fair
Join Us for the Dartmouth Christmas Fair in Support of Children’s Hospice South West
The much-loved Christmas Fair in aid of Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) returns to Dartmouth Old Market on Saturday, 7th December, from 10am to 3pm. This festive event is the perfect opportunity to shop for unique gifts, cards, crafts, jewellery, driftwood art, and homemade cakes while supporting a fantastic cause. Adding to the festive cheer, Dartmouth Rock will perform seasonal favourites from 11am, creating a magical Christmas atmosphere.
About Children’s Hospice South West
CHSW is the only children’s hospice service in the South West, providing vital specialist care and support to over 550 families with children who have life-limiting conditions. Founded 33 years ago by Eddie Farwell and his late wife, Jill, the charity grew out of their personal experience of caring for their own children with life-limiting illnesses. Despite significant personal loss, Eddie has been a driving force behind CHSW’s growth and continues to lead as CEO, although he plans to retire in spring 2025.
Today, CHSW operates three hospices across the region:
- Little Bridge House near Barnstaple, North Devon
- Charlton Farm near Bristol, North Somerset
- Little Harbour near St Austell, Cornwall
This network ensures that no family has to travel more than 1½ hours to access their services. CHSW provides a wide range of support, including respite care, home visits, virtual activities, palliative and emergency care, end-of-life care, and ongoing bereavement support. Their dedicated siblings’ team also ensures the needs of brothers and sisters are met.
Crucially, CHSW’s services are free to families. However, with annual running costs of almost £12 million and only 14% of funding coming from the government, the charity relies heavily on fundraising and donations to continue its essential work.
Dartmouth & District Friends Group
Locally, the Dartmouth & District Friends Group is a small team of dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to raise funds and awareness for CHSW. They organise a variety of events throughout the year, including Christmas and Easter Fairs at the Old Market and activities in Royal Avenue Gardens such as Dart Art Day and Tea Hut days. All exhibitor fees and funds raised at these events go directly to CHSW.
The group also participates in local events, such as Family Regatta and Rotary activities, and seizes every opportunity to raise funds for this vital charity.
Get Involved
Would you like to support this incredible cause? Whether you can volunteer your time, resources, attend events, or simply help spread the word, every contribution makes a difference. For more information or to get involved, contact Sue at tweed833@btinternet.com or on 07955 197721.
See You at the Fair!
Join us on Saturday, 7th December, as we come together to celebrate the festive season and support the life-changing work of Children’s Hospice South West. Together, we can make a difference to families in need while enjoying the magic of Christmas.
