Imagine the sheer joy of a child's laughter echoing through a hospice, all because a simple home cinema setup turned a place of healing into a realm of wonder and escape. It's a heartwarming tale that's capturing hearts nationwide—but here's where it gets intriguing: could this blend of entertainment and charity spark debates on how we prioritize support for the seriously ill?
Dive into the inspiring story of Together for Cinema, a community group from Great Bookham in Surrey that's making waves in a big national contest. This dedicated team is one of just 10 finalists vying for a whopping £10,000 prize from Selco Builders Warehouse's Community Heroes campaign. And trust me, this isn't just about the money—it's about amplifying their mission to sprinkle magic into children's hospices across the UK.
Founded 16 years ago by the passionate Ian Morrish, Together for Cinema started as a spark of inspiration after he tuned into a TV show about a special holiday spot for kids facing life-limiting illnesses. Deeply touched, Ian reached out to see how his expertise in audio-visual technology could lend a hand. Within a year, they had crafted their very first cinema room—a cozy setup designed to bring smiles to young lives. Today, they've rolled out an impressive 58 of these comforting spaces in children's hospices and similar venues nationwide, with a total investment exceeding £1.5 million.
Ian himself puts it best: 'Seeing the delight on kids' faces is really amazing.' And this is the part most people miss— it's not just about watching movies; it's about creating a safe haven where families can unwind, relax, and momentarily forget the medical challenges they face. For beginners wondering what this entails, picture a dimly lit room with plush seating, a big screen, and surround sound that transports everyone to a world of adventure or laughter. In Surrey alone, they've installed these havens at the Christopher's Shooting Star Children's Hospices in Guildford, the White Lodge Centre in Chertsey, and Cherry Trees in East Clandon. Ian describes it as 'such a personal thing to me, seeing children and families genuinely relax because we're bringing the cinema experience to their safe place where their medical issues can be dealt with straight away.'
But here's where it gets controversial—while some might argue that charities should focus solely on core medical aid, others see the profound value in these 'luxuries' that boost mental and emotional well-being. Is a cinema room a frivolous expense, or a vital tool for holistic care? Together for Cinema gained Community Interest Company (CIC) status in 2023, a legal structure that emphasizes social benefits over profit, helping them channel all efforts toward their noble cause.
The Selco campaign, now in its fifth year, doesn't stop at prizes—it also provides donated building supplies and financial backing to charities and groups like this. Alongside the grand £10,000 top award, there are £5,000 and £2,500 prizes up for grabs. For a group like Together for Cinema, that top prize isn't pocket change; Ian calls it 'a lot of money' that would let them add those perfect finishing touches—think twinkling ceiling lights for a starry ambiance or extra sound-absorbing panels to make every giggle and plot twist crystal clear. With seven new installations slated for next year, these enhancements could elevate the experience, making each room feel even more special and immersive.
The winner, chosen by public vote, will be revealed in January. In the meantime, it's a reminder of how community-driven initiatives can transform lives. As a relevant example, consider how similar setups in hospitals worldwide have shown measurable benefits, like reduced stress and improved family bonding during tough times.
What do you think? Should charities prioritize entertainment like cinemas in hospices, or stick strictly to medical essentials? Could this spark a broader conversation about emotional support in healthcare? Share your thoughts in the comments—do you agree, disagree, or have a counterpoint? Let's discuss! For updates, follow BBC Surrey on Facebook or X, and feel free to send story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us at 08081 002250.
