Manchester City’s women’s team help make magical memories

The visit, organised by Manchester City, saw the players visit poorly youngsters in hospitals around Greater Manchester and at the hospice over the festive season.

The six players, including goal keeper Ellie Roebuck and forward Georgia Stanway, met with the families of children and young people with life-limiting conditions, and heard how the hospice supports them with respite care for the whole family.

After chatting with Manchester City forward and Scotland international Caroline Weir, twelve-year-old Josh said: “It’s been great to meet the team and really nice that they have come to see us and say hi. It’s been a really fun experience.”

In a visit lasting more than two hours, the players signed footballs and handed out postcards before being taken on a tour of the facilities.

Nick Cushing, manager for Manchester City’s women’s team said: “Visiting Francis House was a memorable experience for all of us. The bravery of the families we met was inspiring and it was a pleasure for us to have the opportunity to spend some time with them ahead of the Christmas season.”

Georgia Stanway, Manchester City forward added: “We had a fantastic afternoon with all the families, hearing their stories and chatting to them about football and all their plans for Christmas. It was a humbling experience and I have been so inspired by everyone I met.”

Francis House supports more than 500 families from across Greater Manchester. The hospice services are all given completely free of charge and include respite care, homecare, sibling support, end of life care, emotional and bereavement support.

David Ireland, chief executive of Francis House said: “The visit made the children and their families feel really special and provided them with memories that they will all cherish.”