463 – ten years of love, laughter, and plenty of brews!

On 6th September 2024, Jeff Smith MP (for Manchester Withington) and Bishop John Arnold joined staff, residents, and supporters of 463 Francis House Families Ltd to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the residential home, which has provided life-enhancing care to young adults with life-limiting conditions for more than a decade.

Established as the residential subsidiary to Francis House Children’s Hospice, 463 was founded to offer young people with a life-limiting condition a home in a nurturing and supportive environment. Over the past ten years, 463 has become a vital part of the local community, providing not only physical care but also helping residents achieve personal milestones and lead fulfilling lives.

Jeff Smith MP acknowledged the crucial role that the seven bedroomed home has played in the lives of young people and their families. As a long-standing advocate for social care improvements, Mr Smith thanked the young people for inviting him into their home and reflected on the importance of community-based care models, such as 463, which provide both practical support and emotional enrichment for residents.

Mr Smith said: “On behalf of the local community it is a pleasure to have this facility in our community. As soon as you enter through the doors there is real warmth and real positivity, you get a great sense of the environment of this place.

“I know this is the only facility of its kind in the country so we’re very lucky to have it in this part of south Manchester. 463 has been described as a ‘beacon of support and compassion’ and that sums it up very well.”

Addressing the staff, young people and their families he added: “You’re right to be very proud of what you have achieved here, all the people who have contributed to this project. Congratulations on your ten years and here’s to the next ten years.”

Bishop John Arnold also attended the celebration and offered a blessing for all that has been achieved, the present, and the future. Highlighting the values of inclusivity, compassion, and community that form the foundation of the care provided at 463. His presence underscored the spiritual and holistic approach that the home takes to ensure every resident feels valued and respected, regardless of their background or beliefs.

Bishop Arnold said: “I have been very privileged over my years of priesthood to be associated with a number of hospices. This is a special celebration because it celebrates that everybody is welcome and part of one community – which is so important in establishing a sense of belonging, of value, of dignity and care. I’m delighted to see the success over ten years.”

The Bishop acknowledged the contribution of Monsignor Tom Mulheran, in supporting and developing the work of 463.

Kyle Wells was one of the first residents of 463 when he moved into the home aged 25. Kyle has Minicore Myopathy and prior to the move in 2014 he lived with his dad.

Kyle said: “For most young people moving out of their parent’s house and having their independence is kind of a given, but without 463 that would’ve been impossible. This place makes the impossible possible.

“The relationship with your parents often improves after you move out. It’s helped me with my dad and we’re closer now. Ten years ago I was starting to presume that I’d always have to live at home. Moving here was like a new lease on life that I wasn’t expecting. This is one of the only places, if not the only one, catering for young people. There are places for the elderly but a 25 year old me wasn’t suited for that.

“When I first moved in, I arrived later than I should have, and all the members of staff were there to greet me. I can’t believe ten years has gone by so fast, I just look forward to being a part of the next ten years and hopefully what has been given to me will be expanded and more young people will benefit.”

David Ireland, chief executive of Francis House Children’s Hospice, recognised the contribution of the staff in keeping 463 such a happy place to live, and the involvement and expertise of Dermot Murphy who became the Registered Manager of 463 and the property known as no 92 on Barcicroft Road.

Barcicroft Road launched in Heaton Moor in 2023 providing a new care home for six young people with life-limiting conditions and complex needs. The two properties combined, provide 13 residential places for young people with life-limiting conditions.

David also thanked residents Kahlis, Demi, Ben, Thomas, Christopher, Vicky and Kyle for welcoming everyone into their home. Plus former trustees Chris Roberts and Martin Lochery who were in attendance, describing their positive attitude in the setting up of 463 in the beginning.

David said: “Here the young people are able to take part in community activities, go to college, some have got jobs, their lives have become much fuller, and they are living within a very strong family group.”

A buffet lunch was followed by the cutting of a cake decorated to represent the home and items of importance to each of the residents.

Jane Kempler, Director of 463, paid tribute to the resilience of the residents and the dedication of the team who have worked tirelessly to create a warm, supportive home environment where young people can thrive.

Dermot Murphy, registered manager said: “For the past ten years, 463 Francis House Families Ltd has been at the forefront of providing innovative, person-centred care for young adults with life-limiting conditions. Through its dedicated staff and strong sense of community, 463 has helped residents break through barriers, enabling them to achieve independence and take part in meaningful experiences, from attending college to performing on stage.”

Hannah Manton, House Lead of 463 then read out speeches from each of the young people and Dermot summed up the last ten years at 463 and the journey they all had been on with a poem of his own composition.