Staff in Newham Council’s adult social care team have raised £500 for a children’s hospice by taking part in a charity football match.

They wanted to support Richard House Children’s Hospice, which cares for terminally ill children and young people and their families, and staged a charity football match.

The teams were made up of The Tigers (women’s team) and The Bears (men’s team). The Tigers won two games against the Bears which helped raise £240.

To raise even more money, staff held a raffle to win prizes including a bottle of champagne, aftershave, makeup bag and perfume gift sets. This helped bring the total raised to £500.

Councillor Clive Furness, executive member for health and adult commissioning said: “It’s great that staff have taken the initiative to raise money for such a worthwhile cause.

“The charity provides much needed respite care for children and young adults with life-limiting, life-threatening and complex healthcare needs. Many families simply would not cope without this lifeline.”

William Whiteside, team referee and member of staff,said: “It was really important to us to help such an amazing local hospice. Staff in adult services have really dug deep and we hope that the hospice can put this money to good use helping families in Newham and elsewhere.”

Viv Talbot, Community and Events Fundraising Manager at the Hospice said: “The community spirit shown by the adult social care team at Newham Council is great to see. The money they have raised will really help children and young adults who access our services right here in Newham.”