Published on 27 February 2026
Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, in Liverpool, has become the first hospital in the country to fully deliver every wish of Sophie’s Legacy – a national campaign created in memory of nine-year-old Sophie Fairall, who died from a rare childhood cancer.
Sophie’s Legacy focuses on simple but powerful changes that make a meaningful difference to children and families during a hospital stay. Her wishes call for seven-day access to play specialists, improved food for children in hospital, and meals for parents staying with their child.
In March 2025, Sophie’s mum, Charlotte Fairall, and Policy Manager Helen Benn visited Alder Hey’s HIPE Staff Network to share Sophie’s story and emphasise the importance of listening to families to drive compassionate, practical change across healthcare settings.
Charlotte Fairall, CEO of Sophie’s Legacy, said: “We want to say a massive thank you to Alder Hey in making this happen, to the play team, the catering team and everyone who has been involved. Alder Hey is the first hospital in the country that has managed to fully implement all of Sophie’s wishes and we hope many more hospitals will now follow Alder Hey’s lead.”
Sophie was diagnosed shortly after her ninth birthday and went through nine rounds of intensive chemotherapy and seven weeks of radiotherapy. She died just one year later. Drawing from her own experience, she set out a clear vision to make hospital life better for other children and families. Alder Hey, supported by Alder Hey Children’s Charity, has now brought that vision to life in full.
This milestone not only honours Sophie’s memory but also sets a new standard for paediatric care. It shows how listening to families and acting with compassion can genuinely transform the hospital experience.