Julia's House Children's Hospice | Making a Difference Across Dorset

Julia's House is a children's hospice charity for Dorset and Wiltshire, providing specialist care and support for children and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions, as well as their families.

Established in 2003, the charity was inspired by paediatric nurse Julia Perks, who recognised the need for additional support for families caring for seriously ill children.

Since then, Julia's House has grown into an established regional charity, providing a range of services designed around the individual needs of children and their families.

Julia's House operates two children's hospices, including Dorset and Wiltshire. Its specialist teams also provide care within family homes and local communities, meaning support is not limited to the hospice buildings.

Services include respite care, specialist nursing, play activities and emotional support. Children can take part in activities, spend time with other families and enjoy experiences suited to their individual needs, while parents and carers benefit from additional support.

The charity also recognises the needs of siblings and the wider family, offering activities and support to help everyone involved.

More than 65% of Julia's House care is community-based, highlighting the importance of its work beyond its hospice locations.

As a charity that relies heavily on public support, Julia's House works closely with individuals, businesses, schools and community groups across the region.

Around 92% of its funding comes from its local community, making fundraising and donations an important part of sustaining its services.

There are several ways to support the charity, including one-off donations, regular giving, sponsored challenges and community fundraising.

Businesses can also get involved through workplace fundraising, charity partnerships and organised events.

Whether organising a local fundraising activity or choosing Julia's House as a nominated charity, there are opportunities for people and organisations to contribute.

Julia's House runs a programme of fundraising events throughout the year, ranging from sponsored challenges and organised walks to dinners and seasonal activities.

Its events calendar is regularly updated, allowing supporters to find upcoming activities, register their interest and discover different ways to get involved.

The charity also welcomes volunteers, with opportunities available across a range of areas. These include helping in charity shops, assisting at fundraising events, gardening, administration and supporting community activities. 

The charity operates a network of shops across Dorset and Wiltshire, selling donated clothing, accessories, homeware and other pre-loved items.

Its Dorset locations include Broadstone, Bransgore, Dorchester, Poole, Wallisdown, Westbourne, Weymouth and Wimborne, alongside further shops in Wiltshire.

The shops provide another way for local residents to support the charity, whether by shopping, donating good-quality items or volunteering. Julia's House also has an online presence, including an eBay shop.

From making a donation and volunteering to attending an event or supporting a local charity shop, there are several ways to get involved with Julia's House.

To find out more about its services, upcoming events, fundraising opportunities, charity shops and family stories HERE

Last Updated: November 2026