Hospice helping patients in Sandwell launches urgent fundraising appeal
A hospice has launched an urgent appeal for donations to ensure it doesn't have to cut vital care services during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Tina Swani, chief executive at Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice says the charity's frontline staff are still caring for patients with life-limiting illness across Birmingham and Sandwell - some of whom are extremely ill, vulnerable and have been diagnosed with coronavirus.
But the charity has been forced to postpone its fundraising events which generate money towards its services due to the ban on social gatherings.
It costs £23,288 to the hospice every day and 60 per cent - or £14,000 - must be raised through generous voluntary donations.
Ms Swani is urging the local community to “unite for hospice care” by raising funds or making donations to the charity, otherwise it risks “cutting back services at a time when they are needed most”.
She said: “Our main concern at the hospice is that people living with complex and terminal conditions continue to get the vital care they need during these difficult circumstances.
"We’re still running our urgent and essential services – such as providing around the clock care on our Inpatient Unit or offering critical support in people’s homes – but we can only continue to do this if our local communities raise funds or make donations.”
As well postponing all its fundraising events and community activities, the charity has temporarily closed its 17 charity shops.
Ms Swani said: “Heartbreakingly, at a time when people desperately need our services, we’re losing out on funding - so you can see why current circumstances could have a big impact on our services.”
As an alternative to mass fundraising events, the hospice is encouraging supporters to take on its virtual challenges instead. These include a virtual 40-mile walk, 100-mile bike ride and a chocolate-themed run. All events can be completed in people’s own time and in a place of their choosing – meaning they can be done in line with current government advice.
Alternatively, the hospice is also appealing for donations which can be made online.
Ms Swani added: “The truth is, we need support from our communities more than ever before, to help us get through this crisis and care for people when they need it most. Whether you take part in a virtual challenge or make a donation, please know that every pound you raise or give will ensure more people and their loved ones receive support during these uncertain times.”
Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice provides vital care to people living with life-limiting illness, as well as support partners, family members, loved ones and carers too and supports 500 people every day across Birmingham and Sandwell.
To donate see www.birminghamhospice.org.uk
