A special group of Claire House siblings are getting ready to show off their moves as they take to the dance floor for Claire House Does Strictly in Liverpool.
With Strictly back on TV screens, the youngsters have been rehearsing their own routine ahead of the charity’s fundraising event on Saturday, September 26.
They will be joined on the night by eight amateur dancers and their professional partners, who have also been perfecting their routines, ready to perform.
Claire House Children’s Hospice supports the brothers and sisters of the seriously and terminally ill babies, children and young adults it cares for, providing emotional support, play, shared experiences and opportunities to create precious memories together.
Young dancer Niamh Mercer, 10, said:
“I love watching Strictly and I really wanted to do something for my sister, who passed away. Claire House means a lot to me because when I’ve been sad, they’ve always been there for me, and I’ve had someone to talk to.”
The charity operates a full children’s hospice on the Wirral, as well as a site in West Derby, Liverpool, which is set to undergo a major transformation.
As part of the Strictly project, Claire House siblings have spent several weeks learning a dance routine, building their confidence and having fun together along the way.
Alex Wheeler, Therapeutic Support Worker at Claire House, said:
“We see every day how siblings can hold a lot of big emotions. Our role is to help them feel understood, supported and reminded that they’re just as important.
“Our aim is to give siblings a chance to relax, express themselves creatively and just enjoy being children.”
Following weeks of rehearsals with Headliners, the young dancers are now preparing to showcase everything they have learned at Claire House Does Strictly on Saturday night.
Money raised through events including Claire House Does Strictly helps the charity ensure seriously ill children and their families can access care and support when they need it most.
Debby Lofthouse, Events Fundraiser at Claire House, said:
“Claire House Does Strictly is always such a special event, and we’re so proud to see our sibling group taking part this year. The children have worked incredibly hard learning their routine and it’s been wonderful to watch their confidence grow week by week. We can’t wait to see them take to the dance floor at the Titanic Hotel and show everyone what they’ve achieved.
“We’re incredibly grateful to Greenmount Projects for sponsoring the Sibling Group Dance and for generously donating their table on the evening to the parents of the children taking part. Good luck to all our dancers. We can’t wait to see you shine!”
Those unable to attend the event can also sign up to watch Claire House Does Strictly via a livestream on Saturday.
More information about supporting Claire House is available on the website, while viewers can sign up for the livestream here.
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