Ipswich mayor Stefan Long pledges to raise funds for EACH

Stefan Long has chosen East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) as one of his official charities for his mayoral year and recently visited The Treehouse hospice in Ipswich.

During the visit, he toured the five-bedroom facility and family accommodation and explored its sensory room, hydrotherapy pool, music therapy studio, and play areas.

Ipswich mayor Stefan Long finds out more about EACH from Jules Gibson-Cranch, locality wellbeing lead (Image: EACH) Mr Long said: "I’d seen photos and videos on social media, but actually visiting in person was something else.

"I was so impressed with the range of services provided by such a dedicated team, and what they do for children and families is nothing short of amazing.

"I compared the way it’s run to a game of chess, always being a few moves ahead to ensure everyone has what they need, when they need it.

"It explains the proposed expansion plans, to provide care for many more children and families.

"I’m looking forward to going back and raising as much as possible for them this year as one of my chosen charities."

Ipswich mayor Stefan Long visited the sensory room at The Treehouse (Image: EACH) During his visit, Mr Long met members of the EACH team, including Ray Travasso, music therapist; Liz Craigie, chef; and Ali Butler, community fundraiser.

Ms Butler said: "It was such a lovely morning and a pleasure to join Cllr Long on his tour of our beautiful hospice.

"He was so engaged, asking lots of questions about the care and support we provide, and, as well as seeing the various rooms and facilities, we also spent time showing him some of our memory-making resources.

"Cllr Long has chosen us as one of his charity partners, which is incredibly kind and generous, and we wish him all the very best with his fundraising.

"We look forward to welcoming him back to The Treehouse."