Charlie House: Children’s charity launches £1m fundraiser to take next step in ‘state-of-the-art’ north-east support centre

The north-east children’s charity Charlie House has launched the next step in its campaign to help develop a “dedicated” support centre.

It will go towards helping Aberdeen for children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions and their families.

Since launching in 2018, the Big Build Appeal involves building a custom-made home for the charity on a four-acre site behind Woodend Hospital.

Following completion, the centre will enable children and their families to make precious memories together.

Plans include a state-of-the-art sensory room, spa pool, craft room, soft play area and therapy room.

Since being established in 2011, the charity has had the goal of having a building so families don’t need to travel more than 100 miles south of Aberdeen to get the specialist support they need.

Last month, Charlie House was the nominated charity of The Society Awards.

One brick at a time

To reach its target, Charlie House is looking for 4,000 virtual bricks to help raise funds for the facility.

Each brick costs £250 and fundraising can be done in different ways.

Once fundraisers have bought their virtual brick, Charlie House will provide regular build updates and invite contributors to special events.

Since being launched, the campaign has gathered £4m out of a total £8m.

‘We can’t thank you enough’

Susan Crighton, director of fundraising for Charlie House said: “As we continue our mission to build a physical Charlie House, the Buy a Brick campaign is the next step in our fundraising to help make this possible.

“From everyone at Charlie House, we can’t thank you enough for your generosity, spirit and involvement in our activities.”

The charity recommends various fundraising methods including organising bake sales, pub and virtual quizzes, sponsored sporting events, or crafty calendar making.

To get involved, visit the Charlie House website.