Saint Francis Hospice joins National Campaign to Change Perceptions of Hospice Care

Saint Francis Hospice is proud to be one of over 143 hospices taking part in the "This is Hospice Care" campaign, a national initiative facilitated by Hospice UK.

The campaign, which launched on 17th February, aims to raise awareness about the vital role hospices play in communities and to shift public perceptions of hospice care. 

One in five people are cared for by Saint Francis Hospice thanks to legacies and the campaign is hoping to encourage people to consider leaving a gift in their Will to support their local hospice, now and in the future.

"For many years, the generosity of everyone who has remembered us in their Will has helped us sustain and develop our services and expand our reach,” said Grazina Berry, Chief Executive Officer at Saint Francis Hospice.

“These gifts are more than a financial contribution; they are a commitment to future generations - a promise that we’ll continue to be here, caring for people facing illnesses that can’t be cured as well as supporting their loved ones.  

 “It is deeply moving to witness the impact these gifts make. Because of people like you, we can fund essential services - from our medical and nursing care team to bereavement support for people including children and specialised therapies that bring comfort to those we care for and their loved ones.

“When I think about the community that comes together to make our work possible, I am filled with immense gratitude. Each legacy gift, whether large or small, strengthens our ability to offer compassion, comfort and dignity." 

Over the past 12 months, we have cared for 2000 people at the most difficult time in their lives. People like Jan, who received compassionate care on our ward. We were there for her husband Steve too and their family. 

“The nurses and doctors showed so much compassion and kindness as well as total professionalism,” said Steve.  

“The volunteers are such wonderful, kind human beings. Margaret was the first to offer the food menu and every volunteer after that had the same warm welcoming way about them that I know made Jan's last days so comforting. I recall one volunteer saying, ‘the hospice is the best service you never knew you needed.’