Naomi and Jack’s: Halloween and Bonfire Night party

Naomi and Jack’s, which supports seriously ill babies, children and young adults, hosted a Halloween and Bonfire Night-themed party at Jack’s Place, with the garden transformed into 'Jack’s Patch' for the occasion.

More than 100 locally donated pumpkins were on display for families to pick, carve and decorate.

Naomi and Jack’s hosted a Halloween and Bonfire Night themed party for children, young adults and their families. (Image: Naomi and Jack's)

Entertainment included a magical performance from children’s performer Crazy M and live music from the CAMHS band, made up of current and former NHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services staff.

Claire Potterton, play and activities manager at Naomi and Jack’s, said: "Thank you so much to everyone at Naomi and Jack’s for coming together to create a fully inclusive, fun-filled party for the families in our care.

"The atmosphere was a wonderful combination of vibrancy and calm, allowing visitors to enjoy experiences together that they may not otherwise be able to take part in, and make special memories.

"A special thank you goes out to our volunteers on the night, including the CAMHS band for volunteering their time, as well as our care floor volunteers and photographer, Jon Bolton.

"We couldn’t have done it without you all."

The garden also featured a sensory trail with bug hunting, apple bobbing and trick-or-treating.

Naomi and Jack’s hosted a Halloween and Bonfire Night themed party for children, young adults and their families. (Image: Naomi and Jack's)

One of the young adults at the hospice, Jack, hosted the trick-or-treating station from his bedroom, handing out sweets and sensory toys to visitors.

The catering team served a themed feast, including bonfire themed cupcakes, while the maintenance team lit up the night with a firework display.

Evie Thomas-Broomfield, play specialist at Naomi and Jack’s, said: "What really made a difference on the night was the feedback we received from families.

"One parent shared that it was so wonderful to be able to take her son trick-or-treating for the very first time.

"For her, seeing her sons participate so confidently and happily in an activity that others often take for granted was incredibly special.

"Another parent shared that she was worried to book in a stay for her son as she wasn't sure they were ready.

"But after seeing how much he enjoyed himself at the party, she would be calling to book his stay.

"What a powerful reminder of how important and special these events are for the children, young adults and families in our care."