Our History

Naomi House was the dream of a committed group of people who saw the desperate need for somewhere locally that could provide respite care for life-limited children and their families.

People of all ages from across the region embraced the fundraising campaign to surpass the £5 million target to build, equip and run the hospice.

A generous offer of land, for a peppercorn rent of a bouquet of red roses each Midsummer's Day, from business woman Mrs Mary Cornelius-Reid ended the search for a suitable site. To say thank you, the hospice was named after her youngest daughter Naomi, a solicitor from London, and together they cut the first turf for the new building on 22 January 1996.

Just a few months later, supporters received congratulations from Sir Cliff Richard, one of the charity’s patrons, who performed the topping out ceremony.

Royal Approval for Naomi House

Naomi House received royal approval when HRH the Prince of Wales performed the official opening ceremony on 22 April 1998. Unveiling a commemorative plaque, he commented on the 'wonderful homely and domestic surroundings' and congratulated the many supporters for their time and effort in making their dream a reality.

Since welcoming the first families to stay on 27 June 1997, we have cared for around 450 children with life-limiting conditions as well as their parents, brothers and sisters.