Kensington Palace: The Duchess of Cambridge to visit
Ronald McDonald House Evelina London
Tuesday 28th February, 2017
The Duchess of Cambridge will visit Ronald McDonald House Evelina London on Tuesday 28th February, officially marking the opening of their purpose-built ‘home away from home’ accommodation for the families of children being treated at Evelina London Children’s Hospital.
The new 59-bedroom House offers comfort, support, and a safe environment where families can interact and share their experiences, and stay free of charge for as long as the need to whilst their child is in hospital. The facility is equipped with kitchens, playrooms, and laundry facilities, and has communal lounges so that families can feel at home. Just a five minute walk to the Evelina London, the location also helps families remain as close as possible to their child. Run in partnership with Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, which made a significant contribution to the cost of the build, and Guy’s and St Thomas’ Charity, which provided the land and helped to bring the parties together, the House is expected to accommodate around 975 families each year.
The new £13 million House is run by Ronald McDonald House Charities, an independent charity founded in 1989. There are currently 14 Houses across the UK, helping support over 7,000 families a year and keeping them together at a stressful time so that they can concentrate on the wellbeing of their child.
On arrival The Duchess will hear more about Ronald McDonald House Charities, and what the new House will mean to the families and children being treated at Evelina London. Her Royal Highness will then be taken on a tour of the House, meeting families who are currently benefitting from its new facilities and services. Before departing, The Duchess will attend a short reception in the Day Room, and unveil a plaque to mark the House’s official opening.
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