About Us

Hannah’s House has been inspired by Hannah Watson who was born in 1991 and passed away in 2010. Hannah had a rare syndrome called Opitz Trigonocephaly. She had profound intellectual and physical disabilities as well as chronic and complex medical conditions. She found it difficult to swallow, move, vocalise or display emotions, and had to be fed through a gastronomy button. Hannah required 24-hour nursing care including hourly feeding, oxygen therapy, and management of distress and agitation.

In 1996 the Watson family left Perth for a four month visit to the UK. During this period Hannah’s parents, Jacky and Martin, were introduced to Francis House, just outside Manchester, which cared for children with life-limiting illnesses like Hannah’s. Jacky and Martin had no idea what to expect from Francis House but were overwhelmed by the warm welcome they received and the competence of staff caring for Hannah. There was a great sense of community where the relentless care of a dependent or sick child could be shared and friendship and support offered in a practical way. It was, in every sense, a home away from home.

Their experience at Francis House inspired them to work towards building a facility here in WA to help parents in similar situations. A welcoming centre that would be fun and engaging for the child and also allow parents to feel secure in the knowledge that their child was being well cared for whilst they took a break. This opportunity to relax helps inspire and rejuvenate families, giving them the energy they need to continue with the full-time care of their child or children.