LOROS Tree of life: Fundraising update

A donation made in 2024 from the Trust enabled the unique Tree of Life, designed and built by artist Jason Sweeney, to be commissioned.  

Ian Mattioli said: “LOROS is such a joyous and fabulous place. So many Leicestershire families need to use the great resources that LOROS have when all our families are in their greatest need. 

We want the The Tree of Life to be a long-term, sustainable, visual acknowledgment of all the people, their families and supporters, who wish to celebrate the work that LOROS does day in, day out.” 

The Tree of Life allows anyone to engrave a leaf in memory of a loved one, bringing the tree to life while also supporting the charity to continue its important work. Each of the 1,500 leaves has been handcrafted with care, creating a lasting tribute. 

We're sure you'll agree the tree is stunning! If you'd like to find out more about creating a legacy for a loved one by making a donation to secure a leaf, you can follow the link below and support LOROS in their important work. 

A Growing Tribute to Loved Ones 

Since its installation last year, the LOROS Tree of Life has become a touching way for families to honour and remember their loved ones. Since its launch, nearly 200 leaves have been sold, with 140 already fitted, alongside the special leaves from the Kate’s Wish award. 

One family alone has raised an astonishing £13,000 in memory of their loved one, a phenomenal contribution that has helped make their leaf part of this beautiful tribute. More than 500 people have attended leaf-fitting sessions, sharing in moments of reflection and connection as they place a leaf for their loved one. 

It’s heart warming to see how the Tree of Life has become a cherished place for remembrance. Families often return to visit their loved ones’ leaves. One woman shared how she enjoys a can of G&T in the summer with her partner’s leaf, while a gentleman takes a cup of tea outside after his counselling sessions to sit with his wife’s leaf. These moments highlight the deep emotional significance the tree holds within the LOROS community. 

Excitingly, the Tree of Life will also feature prominently in the upcoming LOROS Farewell/Big Day Out event as part of the Stomp Round Leicester campaign. The event will celebrate the community’s efforts while reinforcing the Tree’s role as a symbol of love and remembrance. 

Recently, Leicester City Football Club (LCFC) joined in to support LOROS’ counselling service. Players Mads Hermansen and Victor Kristiansen, alongside their media team, visited the Tree of Life for a special photocall. Their presence and backing will help amplify awareness and extend our reach even further. 

To date, the Tree of Life has raised an incredible £161,746, with £54,696 coming from the sale of leaves alone. Every leaf tells a story, every donation makes a difference, and together, we continue to build a lasting tribute to those we hold dear. 

If you would like to dedicate a leaf on the Tree of Life, visit the LOROS website to find out more https://loros.co.uk/