By KLTV Newsdesk –

“Forget Me Not open day was an inspiration,” says charity challenge champion Lucy Haigh

Visitors across West Yorkshire are being invited to step inside Forget Me Not children’s hospice this May, as the charity prepares to host two special open days at its Russell House site in Huddersfield.

Among those encouraging people to attend is Race Across West Yorkshire 2026 winner Lucy Haigh, who says a previous visit to the hospice inspired her to take part in the fundraising challenge.

Forget Me Not will welcome businesses, groups and schools on Thursday 14 May, followed by a public open day on Saturday 16 May.

Lucy and colleague Chloe Brittan, competing as team “Lost and Loving it!” for West Yorkshire refrigeration and air conditioning company Crowther and Shaw, were crowned winners of the charity’s business challenge in April after navigating all six checkpoints in the fastest time.

Lucy said visiting Russell House during an open day last year left a lasting impression: “I visited Russell House last year with my stepdad on an open day they had in October, and seeing what happens there, the hydrotherapy pool, the sensory room, and all the incredible facilities, was genuinely inspiring.

“My stepdad has raised thousands of pounds for Forget Me Not over the years after losing his son at the age of 13.

“While I was there, I saw a brick on the celebration wall with his name on it, and that’s when I knew I wanted to step up my own support.

“When the Race Across West Yorkshire came along, I had to be in it. We’re delighted to have won, but even more thrilled to have been part of a fabulous event that raised awareness and over £42,000 for Forget Me Not.

“I’d strongly recommend attending the hospice open day—it’s a truly memorable experience that stays with you long after.”

Hospice hopes to inspire more supporters

Forget Me Not’s Family Support Team Leader, Stacey John, said the open days give people a chance to better understand the charity’s work supporting children with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

“It’s always a pleasure to welcome people to Russell House for the first time and see their surprise when they realise what a joyful place it is.

“We work with many children with life-limiting illnesses and their families for years and years, supporting them but also playing with them, creating music, gardening, playing sports, and watching movies. All the things young people love to do.

“We just have the extra equipment and facilities that they need to deal with whatever additional needs they have.”

“It’s also lovely to see people coming back again and again and seizing this chance to feel closer to our work. Our community of supporters is so important to us.

“We really couldn’t do what we do without their continued support, whether that be donating, fundraising, volunteering, visiting our shops or leaving gifts in wills – it all makes a lasting difference to local families. Maybe at this open day we’ll inspire another champion like Lucy!”

How to attend the open days

Businesses, schools and community groups can book guided tours of Russell House on Thursday, 14 May, between 10 am and 4 pm by emailing fundraising@forgetmenotchild.co.uk.

The public open day takes place on Saturday 16 May from 10 am until 2 pm, with no booking required.

Russell House is located on Fell Greave Road, Bradley, Huddersfield, HD2 1NH.

More information about both open days is available via Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice