Gunners Kids Launch Monthly Drop-In Sessions at Edward Hain Centre in St Ives

Support for Families Facing Terminal Illness Comes to the Edward Hain Centre

Gunners Kids CIC, a Cornish non-profit dedicated to supporting children whose parent or caregiver is terminally ill, is launching monthly drop-in sessions at the Edward Hain Centre in St Ives. The first session will take place on Tuesday, 15th July, from 2–4PM, with sessions continuing on the third Tuesday of every month.

A Safe Space to Talk

These informal drop-ins are open to anyone who needs support and offer a chance for families to speak with trained volunteers in a safe, confidential environment.

Leisa Farrar from HappyHomeCornwall, who is Gunners Kids’ outreach worker for West Cornwall, approached the Edward Hain Centre about hosting the sessions. Centre manager Sharron Goldingay said yes immediately.

“I’m delighted that we’re able to provide support for children and families in our community who might otherwise have gone without the help they need at such a difficult time,” said Sharron. “We are here to help.”

Leisa added, “The drop-ins offer a chance for families needing support to find out more about what we do. Sessions are very informal, and anyone is welcome to pop in.”

Help When It’s Needed Most

Gunners Kids CIC also offers tailored support boxes for children to help them cope with anticipatory grief and the emotional challenges of having a seriously ill loved one. The organisation already runs similar sessions in Launceston and St Austell, with the new St Ives drop-in expanding its reach in Cornwall.

A Charity Born from Personal Loss

Gunners Kids was founded by Tamsin Chapman-Gunner in memory of her late husband Chris Gunner, who died of cancer at just 39 years old, leaving behind three young children. After struggling to find support, Tamsin created the organisation to help other families in similar situations. She credits Chris as her co-founder.

“It’s fantastic to be able to offer this service to families,” said Tamsin. “We are currently overwhelmed by how many need this support, and hope to bring our services to more communities soon.”

The Edward Hain Centre’s history as a place created in memory of a lost loved one adds a poignant resonance to the new sessions, echoing the origins of Gunners Kids itself.

For more information or to attend, simply visit the Edward Hain Centre on the third Tuesday of any month between 2PM and 4PM.