Mal Pope holds aloft a symbolic cheque after the Cwtsh Clos appeal hit its fundraising target.
Swansea Bay Health Charity has reached its £160,000 fundraising goal to refurbish five homes in the grounds of Singleton Hospital used by families of babies in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
The Cwtsh Clos appeal, which has been running for nearly two years, has been championed throughout by Swansea-based singer songwriter Mal Pope.
Mal helped launch the appeal by sharing the deeply personal and emotional story of his grandson, Gulliver, who spent time in NICU after beings born 18 weeks premature before tragically passing away in September 2023.
In fitting style, Mal was able to bring the curtain down on the appeal by parading a big cheque for the full amount to the charity live on stage in the Swansea Building Society Arena during his Homecoming gig last week (Wednesday, 8 October).
Maintaining his support to the last, Mal invited Morriston Hospital’s Emergency Department Choir to sing on stage with him at the concert and donated 10 per cent of the show’s profits to the cause.
The appeal has also been supported by Swansea City football club, The Principality Building Society, numerous local businesses and charities as well as the wider public.
The appeal also benefitted from the fundraising efforts of several families who made use of the homes and were anxious to give something back.
Mum Jo Silverwood (pictured above with daughter Cerys), from Aberdare, stayed in Cwtsh Clos after her newly-born Cerys, was admitted to NICU in 2018.
She said the accommodation was an “absolute lifeline” and as a thank you, Jo ran a half marathon to raise funds for NICU.
She said: “I’m thrilled that the target has been met. We couldn’t have done without Cwtsh Clos when Cerys was in intensive care.
“It’s brilliant to know that other parents will be helped in these situations.
“They are an absolute lifeline. I’m so pleased that they will continue to support other parents when they are in an incredibly stressful situation.”
Reflecting on the fundraising journey, Mal Pope said: “It’s been a long hard road full of joy and tears.
“This started off as wanting to say thank you to the NICU unit and staff for their love and care for our little Gulliver.
“It’s been an honour and responsibility to share my family’s story.
“We have been overwhelmed by the response from businesses, organisations and individuals who have actually raised the money and we will be eternally grateful for their generosity.”
NICU matron, Helen James, said: “A heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported us – your generosity and dedication have made this possible.
“Cwtsh Clos is an incredible resource that allows families like Jo’s to stay close to their babies during critical times, and your support ensures that more families can benefit from this comfort and care.”
Swansea Bay Health Charity corporate officer, Lewis Bradley, added: “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Mal Pope for his incredible support and leadership of the Swansea Bay Health Charity’s Cwtsh Clos Appeal.
“His involvement has brought warmth, visibility, and a real sense of community to this project over the past year. Mal’s passion and commitment have made a meaningful difference, helping us move closer to creating a dedicated space of comfort and care for those who need it most.
“Mal, we’re truly grateful for everything you’ve done to champion the appeal and inspire others to get involved. It felt right to finish and celebrate the Cwtsh Clos Appeal at your Homecoming show. From everyone at Swansea Bay Health Charity and Swansea Bay University Health Board, thank you.”
