Funding of £100,000 has been awarded to Beaumond House Hospice Care to help ensure its special care can continue during the Coronavirus pandemic.
The grant has come from the Coronavirus Community Support Fund, distributed by the National Lottery Community Fund.
Chief executive Debbie Abrams said they were incredibly grateful to the National Lottery Community Fund for its support.
“It is an incredible sum of money and because it is a direct grant to help us to continue to deliver our Frontline care services, we know that they are secured for now,” she said.
“This fund has also given us the breathing space needed to review our Vision and Values and update our objectives to inform our strategic direction in these unprecedented times.”
Debbie said that next year will be even more difficult for Beaumond House as there will be less government support and grants available which have ensured its survival this year.
“Raising the funds we need for Beaumond House Hospice Care will always be a challenge, but we remain positive and constantly overwhelmed by the support we receive from our community,” she said.
Louise Sinclair, head of clinical services, said they were so grateful to the The National Lottery Community Fund.
“The funding will make a huge difference to our ability to continue to deliver the best care we can to local people,” she said.
“It means we can continue to support patients and their families by providing physical and psychological support, allowing patients to spend their last days in their preferred place of care, with any symptoms effectively managed, surrounded by support for them and their family at what can be one of life’s most difficult times.
“Thanks to the Government for making this possible.”
The pandemic has brought increasing challenges for the hospice. Its charity shops were closed for three months and many fundraising events cancelled.
“We have all been really concerned about how we would continue to provide support as the hospice relies on funding from the public, local businesses, our shops and community fund raising events,” said Louise.
“All of these have been hugely affected by covid-19. “
Each year the hospice provides care for more than 500 patients and their families. There is no charge to the patients but Beaumond House needs £1.3m each year to continue to give care and support, of which 65% has to be raised through the generosity of the public and local businesses year on year.
Head of fundraising and marketing Cathy Lowe said the support they received from the community was always wonderful and has been exceptional this year.
“We are so grateful to everyone who has helped us so far but it is vital that it continues to ensure that we can give local people the support and choices they deserve at the end of their life.”
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