Cumbrians are being urged to help safeguard the future of local hospice care this March.
St Mary’s Hospice, in Ulverston, is calling on schools, community groups and businesses to ‘go purple’ this month, to help protect the future of local hospice care.
The new campaign comes at a critical time as by mid-March, the NHS funding currently allocated to St Mary’s Hospice will have been fully spent.
For St Mary’s Hospice it marks significant financial pressure and highlights the urgent need for community support to help sustain vital services.
Organisations across the region are being encouraged to host purple themed fundraising events, including dress-down days, bake sales, sponsored challenges and workplace or classroom activities throughout the month.
Every pound raised will help make sure patients and families continue to receive compassionate, specialist care at the most difficult moments of life.
Richard Cogger, community fundraising manager at St Mary’s Hospice, said: “The care at St Mary’s Hospice does not stop being needed when government funding runs out. Families still need support, comfort and dignity.
“‘Go purple’ month is about our community coming together to show that hospice care matters and to help protect it for the future.
“Our services are always free for patients and families, but less than 20 per cent of our costs are covered by the NHS.”
St Mary’s Hospice provides essential care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families.
The charity relies heavily on fundraising and community generosity to continue delivering its services.
Organisations wishing to take part in ‘go purple’ month can register their interest and access fundraising resources here.
Or contact Fundraising on 01229 580305 or [email protected].
