‘Through Their Eyes’: creative agency helps children’s hospice raise over £190,000

Film is the star of a successful fundraising campaign.

Brighton-based creative agency MOREVER is known for crafting emotionally resonant campaigns for charities and purpose-led organisations. Its latest work, Through Their Eyes –  the hero film in a fundraising campaign for Haven House Children’s Hospice – shows how sensitive, story-led campaigns can drive powerful public engagement and exceptional fundraising outcomes.

The short film captures the world of six-year-old Charlie, a seriously ill child, and his older brother, Dylan. Told through Dylan’s voiceover, it offers an intimate glimpse into their everyday experiences at the hospice – highlighting the vital role Haven House plays in supporting families like theirs.

Reframing the narrative of hospice care

Public perceptions of children’s hospices often focus on end-of-life care, grief and loss. But within Haven House, there is another reality – one filled with joy, connection and deeply compassionate support.

Drawing on over a decade of experience of helping charities and purpose-led organisations to find and tell powerful stories, MOREVER worked closely with the charity to reframe this narrative. The team developed a campaign rooted in empathy, showing the tactile, sensory world that Charlie inhabits.

Although Charlie does not speak, Dylan’s narration gently guides the viewer through his brother’s experience — revealing the playfulness, warmth, and love that define their time at the hospice.

Human-centred storytelling that builds connection

With carefully crafted cinematography and sound design, the hero film immerses viewers directly into Charlie and Dylan’s world. There are no interviews or direct fundraising appeals. Instead, the storytelling invites people to feel, not just hear, what life at Haven House is truly like.

The decision to centre the story on Charlie – not his condition – allows the campaign to challenge assumptions and build genuine empathy. By focusing on the everyday joy that can exist even in the most difficult circumstances, the film offers a rare and powerful perspective on hospice life.

Aisling Kilbane, Director of Care at Haven House and a contributor to the film, said: “Haven House creates opportunities for all children, including those who communicate in different ways or have complex needs, to experience the fullness of life –  whether through music, sensory exploration, or meaningful connections.

“Every child has a voice – sometimes we just need to find the right way to listen. At Haven House, we create spaces where children like Charlie can express themselves, not just through words, but through laughter, touch, music, and connection. Through Their Eyes is a powerful reflection of this, showing that every child’s experience matters, and that joy, love, and belonging can be felt in so many ways.”

A defining moment at The Haven House Ball

Through Their Eyes premiered at the charity’s flagship fundraising event, The Haven House Ball, held at the London Marriott Hotel on March 20. The emotional response in the room was immediate. Many guests were visibly moved, and their generosity reflected their connection to the story.

Over £190,000 was raised on the night – making it one of the most successful fundraising events in Haven House’s history.

The campaign’s impact extended far beyond the ballroom. The film continues to drive high levels of digital engagement and visibility for the charity, and the overall return on investment currently stands at a remarkable 2011%. By leading with storytelling, rather than urgency or statistics, Haven House has deepened connections with existing supporters and reached new audiences.

Raising awareness in a time of urgent need

The campaign comes at a critical time. Children’s hospices across the UK are under increasing financial strain, with a sector-wide funding shortfall of £77 million. Haven House alone must raise approximately £6 million each year to maintain its vital services.

Campaigns like Through Their Eyes are not only essential for immediate fundraising, but also for long-term awareness building. By shifting the lens from loss to life, the campaign helps the public better understand the full scope of hospice care – and why it needs ongoing support.

Creative impact with Brighton roots

MOREVER is a Brighton-based creative agency with a growing reputation for powerful, purpose-led storytelling. Known for its work with purpose-led organisations and charities including Dementia UK, the Stroke Association and the British Red Cross, the agency blends strategic insight with emotive filmmaking to help organisations make a meaningful impact.

The success of Through Their Eyes reflects the agency’s belief in the power of human-centred storytelling. By giving audiences a direct emotional connection to the family at the heart of the campaign, MOREVER helps organisations like Haven House inspire support that goes beyond a single moment.

The film continues to spark conversations and build awareness long after its premiere –  reminding viewers that children’s hospices are not just places of care, but places of life, love, and community.

Watch the film and learn about the full campaign at:

www.morever.co.uk/through-their-eyes

Thanks to Haven House Ball photographers: Theo Wood and Richard Barker