WITH a steady rise in the number of patients seeking medical care and emotional support from the hospice, more must be collected each year to keep up with demand.

Over the past five years a larger proportion of the community has been referred to the charity following a life-threatening diagnosis and been assisted by Prospect nurses at any hour of the day and night in their own homes, at the end of their life.

Head of fundraising Sheryl Crouch said: “As a charity we need to raise more than £4.3m ourselves each year with the support of our community. It’s only with their help that we manage to achieve this every year.

“For the last five years our patient numbers have increased and therefore our costs have increased.”

Prospect receives most of its funding through its charity shops, legacies and the various events organised by the community to further its work.

“It’s the community’s hospice,” added Sheryl. “The community support and own the hospice.

“The Adver’s campaign is a really big deal to us. We have not had in recent years any kind of campaign with such a high target.

“This is an extraordinary amount to try to raise through a single campaign.

“But we want people to know there is a wide opportunity for them to support it, whether they take part in one of our events, our raffle, or people who have a collection box at home. All this will contribute to the £160,000.”

HOW TO DONATE: 

  •  By card: Online through the donate now button, www.prospect-hospice.net
  •  In cash: Prospect Hospice reception in Wroughton, Prospect Hospice retail shops or the Swindon Advertiser office.
  • Prospect Hospice can also take card donations over the phone – contact the fundraising team on 01793 816161.
  •  Taking part in an event for Prospect? Why not donate through our appeal – let us know via email on 160appeal@swindonadvertiser.co.uk or call us on 01793 501806.