Tŷ Hafan Children’s hospice in Penarth had a special visitor recently to celebrate 24 years of being open.

Eluned Morgan, Minister for Health and Social Services, visited the hospice on January 25 to celebrate the milestone.

While there, Ms Morgan made a new friend in Alfie, with a fantastic photo of her and Alfie high-fiving in front of the cameras.

“I made a new little friend called Alfie while visiting the Tŷ Hafan Children’s hospice in Penarth - he even taught me a new dance move or two," said Ms Morgan.

Ms Morgan went on to thank the staff for the crucial work they do.

“The wonderful staff at Tŷ Hafan do such excellent work providing comfort, care and support to children with life-shortening conditions and their loved ones," added Ms Morgan.

Penarth Times:

(Ms Morgan made a new friend in Alfie during her visit)

Penarth Times:

(The Minister for Health and Social Services was there to celebrate 24 years of the hospice in Penarth)

Maria Timon Samra, chief executive of Tŷ Hafan, said it was a pleasure to welcome the minister.

“The Minister spoke with one of our nurses and met four inspiring families, all of whom explained the difference our hospice and palliative care services make to them," explained Maria. 

"She even got a ‘high five’ from the lovely Alfie who was taking part in a play therapy session during her visit. 

“We discussed a number of issues including the ongoing need for sustainable funding, recruitment challenges, and the cost of living crisis, and, how all these issues impact the families we and Tŷ Gobaith, the children’s hospice in North Wales, care for.

"We thank the Minister for her time with us and agreeing to look into these issues with her team.  

“The population we serve is very small, but incredibly vulnerable. We really believe that improvements on some or all of the issues we discussed will make a transformational difference to many lives, at very little cost to the public purse, and further progress Wales’s ambition to be a compassionate country.”