Dartford children's hospice chYps targeted by thieves twice in eight days (From This Is Local London)

Dartford children's hospice chYps, part of EllenorLions, targeted by thieves twice in eight days

2:31pm Wednesday 22nd August 2012 in News By Kelly Smale

SICK thieves plunged to an all time low by attempting to break in to a children's hospice twice in eight days.

The mindless criminals caused thousands of pounds worth of damage after targeting ChYps, a part of EllenorLions Hospice Centre, in St Ronans View, Dartford.

Staff and volunteers arrived at work on August 13 to find locks had been prised from two of the security doors.

On August 21 employees were shocked to find the side entrance had been targeted again - only this time the glass window in the door had been smashed. 

Fortunately on both occasions nothing was taken from the premises as the crooks failed to gain entry. 

The charity building is home to the chYps children’s nurses, database staff, counsellors, therapists and fundraising team - although no money or drugs are kept at the site overnight.

The building is regularly used by seriously ill young patients and their families for coffee mornings, respite, music therapy and play therapy.

Chief executive for chYps, Carol Stone, said: "We are all very upset about the attempted break-ins.

"We are so very busy caring for over 120 very poorly children and young people, and supporting their families.

"These incidents are costly and disrupt the work of the hospice.

"Our work is largely funded by donations from local people.

"I just ask that those responsible for the break-ins think about the children in the care of the hospice and have respect for all the hard work local people put in to fundraise for chYps."

Kent police are investigating the incidents.