Canopy Kitchen & Courtyard joins Simpsons Special Care Babies in Christmas tribute

Canopy Kitchen & Courtyard, part of The University of Edinburgh, is joining forces with Simpsons Special Care Babies (SSCB) to mark the charity’s 40th anniversary, with a ‘Tree of Light’ installation, honouring families supported by the neonatal unit at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh.

The installation will be housed at Canopy Kitchen & Courtyard, the café/restaurant located in the university’s Futures Institute, at the former site of Edinburgh’s Old Royal Infirmary. It will form the centrepiece of a special lighting ceremony on Saturday 29 November, at 3.30pm, creating a moment of remembrance for families who have experienced the loss of a baby and offering a place of comfort at a time of year that can be especially difficult.

The free event welcomes children, family and friends who have experience of the care provided by the unit.

It is hoped that the funds raised through this event will enable SSCB to purchase state-of-the-art equipment, support continued neonatal-staff training and provide essential support to families during challenging times.

Tracey Ritchie, assistant head of catering operations at Canopy, commented:  "We’re proud to create a warm, welcoming space where people can relax and feel cared for.

“We know this time of year can be emotional, and we’re honoured to offer Simpson’s families a place to pause, reflect and remember.

“Having the Tree of Light here, in a building so deeply connected to the charity’s past, feels like a fitting way to mark its 40th year. We’re delighted to host this event and look forward to supporting SSCB in the months ahead.”

SSCB Tree of Light 2025 - Canopy at EFI The University of Edinburgh | SSCB

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Photography: University of Edinburgh Hospitality Collection