Charity ‘Jessie May’ Releases Annual Impact Report Documenting Impressive Figures and Future Plans

The Bristol based charity, Jessie May has released their most recent impact report, shining light on the resilient hard work the charity has undertaken throughout the pandemic.

From April 2020 to March 2021, Jessie May nurses have spent an incredible 4516 hours supporting terminally ill children and their families, with over 1170 three-hour palliative care specialist nursing visits. 

To recover from the pandemic, the charity sets out its aims for the next 12-18 months, in getting back on track. This includes refining the menu of care support to continue to improve upon the quality of care provided to children and families, maintaining the voice of parents and carers in the charity, and improving fundraising with a new Marketing and Communications Plan. 

Jessie May was created over 25 years ago when Chris and Phillipa Purrington’s child, Jessica May, died peacefully in her father's arms in September 1994.  

In discovering that care for a terminally ill child was not received in homes across Bristol, Chris and Phillipa took it upon themselves to make this possible, officially launching the Jessie May Trust in 1996. 

“We offer end of life care and bereavement support, as well as vital respite sessions and emotional support to those children’s families.” Jessie May reports, “This allows families to make the most of the precious time they have together and to create treasured family memories.” 

An example of their extraordinary work is young Finley, born with a very severe muscle weakness. With one brother and seven sisters, Finley desperately needed extra care. 

“It’s 24/7 pressure on the family. He requires suctioning and ventilation, although he is slowly spending more time off the vent,” says Mum, Annaleise. 

With the COVID-19 pandemic, Jessie May’s support has meant more to her than ever: “They have helped to support emotionally as well as caring for Finley’s medical needs. Charlotte, my daughter, waits at the door for them to arrive. The whole family loves it when they are here.”  

You can find out more about Jessie May and read their impact report here: https://jessiemay.org.uk/news/our-publications/