Children's hospice AV charity initiative gathers pace

The AV Industry charity campaign to bring home cinema to children's hospices around the UK has announced three new projects due to be completed by Christmas. Working in partnership with care group Together for Short Lives, organisers have confirmed installs in Cardiff, Newcastle and Sheffield. The group say there is also the possibility of a fourth in Kent, but details have yet to be finalised.

Driving the initiative is Ian Morrish, sales manager at Integrated Systems Europe. He says this acceleration confirms that the UK custom install business has become a powerful, charitable force. "The response we have had so far has been very positive and I'm delighted that so many companies are offering their products and services without any hesitation," he says. "I've visited the completed sites and it's fantastic to see the outcome of these installations. With the support of the industry, I hope the new projects will be just as successful."

In July, ISE itself announced a similar charity programme, called 'SeeHearTouch,' to extend the work Morrish has spearheaded in the UK across Europe.

RGB Communications has stepped forward to handle the project at Ty Hafan Children's Hospice in Culverhouse, near Cardiff. The company has agreed to supply all the kit required to complete the installation, including projector, screen, speakers, control and AV receiver, before Christmas.  

Inside CI publisher Dave Slater is aiming to complete a cinema in St Oswald's Hospice Gosforth, Newcastle, before the end of November. Dave, who is sourcing the hardware for the project, says he is still on the lookout for a projector . 

A projector is also the missing ingredient for the third install, at the Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice in North Anston, Sheffield. CEDIA member ET Home Cinema has committed its resources to finish the job in time for the festive holidays.

In an effort to ensure a constant supply of products for this campaign, Morrish says he  is looking to invite companies to become product partners.  "I would like to identify two companies for each category" he says. "This will hopefully eliminate any hold up on forthcoming projects and means we can continue doing great work for these hospices." He says he's looking at setting up a website for the group, which would feature all partner logos. The site will also include case studies and images of all completed projects, promoting the support and generosity from everyone involved.

If you'd like to get involved in the scheme, contact Ian Morrish directly on 01372 454366.

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CI Industry rallies to support hospice initiative