Hospice Care Week 2019

Hospice Care Week took place earlier this month, between the 7^th and 13^th, and was our chance to celebrate the incredible work of hospices throughout the UK. At Teesside Hospice alone we support and care for over 3,000 people per year!

The theme for this year was ‘This Is What It Takes’. This was our opportunity to demonstrate what it takes to deliver hospice care in the UK, and in our case, Teesside. It is so important to highlight all of the behind the scenes effort that it takes to keep our hospice going, we couldn’t survive without it!

We had a fantastic week celebrating at Teesside Hospice. The hospice was transformed as it was decorated with bright yellow balloons, handmade bows and sunflowers; the symbol of hospice care. Those we care for, their families, staff and volunteers all came together to share what hospice care means to them; it was very special.

Over the course of the week we shared stories from people who are a part of different areas of the hospice. From those who have accessed our care, such as our day hospice and counselling, to those who help with the operation of the hospice, like our volunteers. For us, it takes over 140 staff and 400 volunteers all working together to deliver the essential care that Teesside Hospice provides.

Unfortunately, the reality is that like many others, Teesside Hospice is running at a significant financial deficit. This cannot continue forever. Hospice care is free, but it’s not cheap. It currently costs us £3.1 million a year to provide our services. This means we have to raise £6,700 each and every day of the year to keep supporting local people.

Our overheads are low, 90p in every £1 raised goes directly towards patient care. The remaining 10p goes towards raising the next £1, and funds essential running costs. This wouldn’t be possible without the support of our volunteers who help in every way possible. One of the most precious gifts you can give to Teesside Hospice is your time. By becoming a volunteer and giving up just a few hours on a morning or afternoon, you are enabling us to raise the vital funds needed to provide our care. Thank you.

Dedicated staff, fantastic volunteers, community support, teamwork, compassion, love, humour, fundraising, hard work… There are so many things behind #WhatItTakes, and we are grateful for each one that allows us to deliver our care.

Thank you to everyone who supports us, we really couldn’t do this without you.