Ensuring no one faces childhood cancer alone
Why Page Kirk is supporting PASIC
As we move further into 2024, the great Page Kirk fundraising machine is whirring into action once again, under the enthusiastic sterwardship of Amanda Willis. Here, she tells us about this year's chosen charity and the vital support they give to families affected by childhood cancer.
We at Page Kirk Accountants, along with our sister company Page Kirk Financial Services, are delighted to announce a partnership with PASIC, who provide cancer support for children and young people, as our chosen charity for 2024. After a year of supporting 12 individual charities in 2023, we have decided to unite our efforts behind one cause this year.
In late 2023, we engaged our team in the process of selecting our charity for the upcoming year. With over ten heartfelt nominations spanning various causes, it was truly inspiring to witness the passion and care our team demonstrates when it comes to making a positive impact. Following a vote, PASIC emerged as our charity of choice.
As a proud Nottingham-based accountancy firm, we are particularly thrilled to support a local charity like PASIC, which has been serving the East Midlands community since 1977. Initially established as the Parents Association for Seriously Ill Children, PASIC has evolved into a registered charity with a small team, and around half their board and staff members have personal experience of childhood cancer.
PASIC's spectrum of support services incorporates daily family support, financial assistance, counselling and organising uplifting events and outings for families. From comfort bags for newly diagnosed families, through to meaningful memory-making experiences for families facing end-of-life treatment, PASIC ensures that no family faces the daunting road of childhood cancer alone. What is fantastic about the organisation is that they don't just offer support to the sick child, but also to their siblings, who can often feel left out.
Here's an overview of the impactful initiatives and support services provided by PASIC:
- Daily Family Support:
PASIC has a dedicated team of three family support workers who offer both face-to-face and remote support at Nottingham Children's Hospital, as well as in Leicester and Northampton. These professionals provide invaluable emotional support, guidance and resources to families throughout their cancer journey.
- Financial Support:
Families facing childhood cancer often encounter unexpected financial burdens. A parent may need to give up work, for example, and face additional travel costs to hospital appointments. PASIC offers financial grants and supermarket vouchers to help alleviate these hidden costs, ensuring that families can focus on their child's treatment without the added stress of financial strain.
- Counselling:
PASIC understands the importance of addressing the emotional well-being of the entire family unit. They provide referrals for counselling services, offering families a safe space to process their feelings, fears and challenges as they navigate the complexities of childhood cancer.
- Parties and Events:
PASIC organises various events and gatherings throughout the year to foster a sense of community and support among families facing childhood cancer. From Christmas parties to Easter celebrations, these events provide families with an opportunity to connect, share experiences and find comfort in one another's company.
- Days Out:
In addition to hosting parties and events, PASIC also funds days out for the whole family. These outings not only provide a much-needed break from the hospital environment, but also offer siblings the chance to enjoy regular childhood activities, fostering a sense of normality during an otherwise challenging time.
- Comfort Bags:
Upon diagnosis, PASIC support workers provide newly diagnosed families with 'comfort bags' containing essential items for their initial days and weeks in the hospital. From basic toiletries to snacks and items to ease hospital boredom, these bags provide practical support and comfort during a critical time.
- Movie Nights and Teenage Pick-Me-Up Packs:
PASIC recognises the importance of catering to the unique needs of teenagers undergoing cancer treatment. They organise movie nights and provide teenage pick-me-up packs, offering entertainment and comfort to young patients during their hospital stays.
- Gifts, Toys, and Activities:
To lift spirits on the hospital wards, PASIC provides gifts, toys and activities for children undergoing cancer treatment. Mood bears are given to both the sick child and their siblings, helping them communicate their feelings and providing a source of comfort during a challenging time.
- Making Memories Fund:
For families facing end-of-life treatment, PASIC helps create lasting memories through its Making Memories Fund. This includes providing packs with cameras for capturing precious moments and fingerprint charms for bereaved families, as well as assistance with funeral costs.
In February, we arranged a video call with PASIC CEO Louise Towse. It was a great opportunity for the team to learn about the charity and what they do.
Louise said:
'PASIC are thrilled to be chosen as Page Kirk's charity of the year. We love to work in partnership with local businesses who want to give back to the community. Their fundraising will mean we can continue our support for the increasing number of families of children with cancer in the East Midlands who turn to PASIC, desperate for help.'
Senior partner Page Kirk, John Wallis shares his enthusiasm for our partnership with PASIC.
'At Page Kirk, we recognise the importance of giving back to our community, and supporting PASIC aligns perfectly with our values. We are committed to making a meaningful difference and will help PASIC with their mission to ensure no one should face childhood cancer alone in the East Midlands.'
He continued: 'In collaboration with PASIC, we look forward to engaging in fundraising initiatives and awareness efforts throughout the year, knowing that each contribution will directly impact families in need. Together, we can ensure that every child and family navigating the challenges of childhood cancer finds solace, support and hope through the invaluable services provided by the charity.'
Keep an eye out for our charity news events in 2024 on our website and social media!
PASIC's 2022-2023 Impact Report