READ Cased Hole in Aberdeen is delighted to name Charlie House as its Charity of the Year for 2020. The partnership was officially kicked off at a lunch and learn at the READ offices on 5 March. Charlie House fundraising co-ordinator, Kirsty Walker came along to share information about the charity and the incredible work it does to benefit local children and to explain the many ways in which READ can offer its support.

Charlie House was established in 2011 to support babies, children and young people with complex disabilities and life limiting conditions across the North-east of Scotland through organised activities and projects, and the provision of emotional and practical support to children and their families. There are more than 600 conditions considered life limiting, affecting around 1,600 children locally, and Charlie House is dedicated to helping families get the right support when they need it most.

Pauline Morrice, READ’s Global Marketing Executive said, “Each year we select a worthy cause to support based on staff nominations. We are all excited to work with Charlie House to raise money for them and support the vital work they do within our local communities. We already have a long and growing list of fundraising ideas which will see us running, walking, cycling, baking, car washing and hill climbing our way through 2020.”

Kirsty Walker, Charlie House Fundraising Co-ordinator said, “We’re thrilled that READ will be supporting us this year and every penny they raise will stay in the North-east of Scotland to help us provide services and support for hundreds of babies, children and young people across the region who are living with a complex disability and life-limiting condition.”

In addition to its core service provision, Charlie House is also fundraising for its Big Build Appeal which aims to raise £8 million to create a purpose-built facility in Aberdeen which will offer much-needed residential support for children, their parents and carers locally, including a sensory room, spa pool, craft room, teen den, soft play area and therapy room. To find out more visit www.charliehouse.org.uk