Imagine a child battling a serious illness, finding solace and joy in the magic of cinema, right in the comfort of their hospice. This is the heartwarming mission of Together for Cinema, a community interest company (CIC) based in Great Bookham, Surrey, that's now vying for a £10,000 prize to expand its incredible work. But here's where it gets even more inspiring: this prize could fund the creation of even more cinema rooms in hospices across the UK, bringing moments of happiness to children and families facing unimaginable challenges.
Founded 16 years ago by Ian Morrish, Together for Cinema has already installed 58 home cinema rooms in children's hospices and other locations nationwide. Morrish's journey began after watching a TV program about a holiday home for children with life-limiting conditions. Deeply moved, he reached out to see how the audio-visual industry could contribute. Just over a year later, the first cinema room was born. These installations, valued at over £1.5 million, have become safe havens where families can relax, knowing medical care is readily available.
But here's the part most people miss: it's not just about the screens and speakers. Morrish emphasizes the importance of the 'finishing touches'—twinkly lights on the ceiling, extra acoustic panelling—that transform these spaces into truly magical experiences. The £10,000 prize from the Selco Builders Warehouse competition could make these details a reality for seven new installations planned for next year.
The Selco Community Heroes campaign, now in its fifth year, supports charities and community groups with building materials and financial aid. Alongside the top prize, £5,000 and £2,500 awards are also up for grabs. For Together for Cinema, the £10,000 would be a game-changer, allowing them to elevate their cinema rooms to new heights of comfort and enchantment.
In Surrey alone, Together for Cinema has brought this joy to Christopher's Shooting Star Children's Hospices in Guildford, the White Lodge Centre in Chertsey, and Cherry Trees in East Clandon. Morrish reflects, 'Seeing children and families genuinely relax because we're bringing the cinema experience to their safe place is incredibly personal to me.'
And this is where it gets controversial: while many celebrate the emotional and therapeutic benefits of these cinema rooms, some might question whether such resources could be better allocated to direct medical care. What do you think? Is the joy and respite provided by these spaces as valuable as medical interventions? Let us know in the comments.
The winner of the public vote will be announced in January. In the meantime, follow BBC Surrey on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/BBCSurrey/) and X (https://twitter.com/BBCSurrey) for updates. Have a story to share? Send it to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.
