Have you ever wondered what it is like inside a children’s hospice? You can find out as Francis House Children’s Hospice opens its doors to the public for an Open Day on Monday, April 27, 2026. The hospice holds viewing days twice a year to give members of the public and supporters the opportunity to see how their donations help children and families from across Greater Manchester.
A warm welcome is in store, with guided tours led by members of the hospice care team taking place throughout the day. Visitors can experience the 'home from home' environment and see the incredible facilities, including newly painted murals, refurbished bedrooms, sensory and cinema rooms, and a hydrotherapy pool.
Based on Parrs Wood Road in Didsbury, Francis House supports the families of children and young people with life-shortening conditions. For Jen East, the hospice is a lifeline. Her daughter, Florence, was referred to Francis House in 2017 when she was two years old. The whole family—including Jen’s 14-year-old son, Riccardo—has been visiting the hospice for respite care ever since.
Jen said: “Most people think of hospices for end of life, but it’s like a second home for us. It’s for the here and now; it’s about creating memories and sharing experiences in a happy place. They’re there for all of us, not just Florence. Francis House do so much for me. It’s respite and a break, where I can rest and recharge, knowing my family are being looked after. It’s almost like a hotel with lovely apartments and bedrooms with en-suites and a kitchen. It’s a special place that we couldn’t live without.”
In addition to the tours, members of the public will be able to purchase merchandise and find out about upcoming events to take part in. Refreshments will also be available in the hall.
The Francis House open day takes place from 10am to 4pm on Monday, April 27, 2026, at Francis House Children’s Hospice, 390 Parrswood Road, Didsbury M20 5NA. No children or families will be resident during the Open Day. For more information, call 0161 443 2200 or visit www.francishouse.org.uk/open-day-spring-2026.
Francis House Children's Hospice supports more than 435 families from across Greater Manchester. The hospice provides holistic care in a home from home environment to children and young adults who have a life-limiting or life-threatening condition. Support is offered to the whole family and includes physical, emotional and psychological care from a dedicated multi-disciplinary care team. In addition to respite care, the teams at the hospice also provide homecare and community support. The total running cost of Francis House per year is £5.8 million. Out of every £1 spent, 94p goes towards charitable work.
