Spring 2021 - Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity
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Spring 2021
Tracey Batt, Lynda Roche and Dr Alan Watt, at Stoke Mandeville Stadium.
We were relieved in January when our Hospice team were finally able to access the
Covid-19 vaccine, having been caring for Covid-19 patients for many months.
Every day through this crisis our Hospice staff have been donning masks and gloves
and caring for very sick patients and helping families through their grief.
And even with the ongoing stresses of working within a Covid-19 environment,
Tracey Batt and Lynda Roche from our Day Hospice and Dr Alan Watt, Chair of the
Charity’s Trustees, have been spotted playing their part in the vaccination rollout,
working as skilled volunteers delivering Covid-19 vaccinations at Stoke Mandeville
Stadium in Aylesbury.
We could not be prouder to work alongside such dedicated professionals.
www.fnhospice.org.uk
Reg Charity No. 1119499
Telephone: 01296 429975
Florence Nightingale Hospice, Unit 2 Walton Lodge, Walton Street, Aylesbury, HP21 7QY
NEWS NEWS
One year on...
New bathroom for the
of months has shown just how wonderful
you all are. The Hospice was built on
As we approach the anniversary of the first community spirit over thirty years ago, and
Hospice
national Covid-19 lockdown it seems like an that spirit has certainly come to light again
appropriate time to take a moment to reflect to help us during this difficult time.
on the momentous and tumultuous year
Not only have we received over £70,000
that we have all experienced.
of donations but also offers of goods
It will take time to truly understand the full and services and new challenges and After more than a year in the
impact of this pandemic on us – we have fundraisers set up which will all help us planning the Hospice finally has
all been through an extraordinary period of move forward as we take baby steps out a new bathroom which offers a
time and it will be a long time before we all of lockdown and our socially distanced more homely bathing experience
feel safe and confident enough to return to lives. We are also continuing to explore for the patients.
life as we knew it. other avenues of funding to help address
the deficit. The previous bathroom was old,
And while this year has been tough for tired and impractical - wheelchair-
all of us, I remain especially amazed at As Spring begins, the days grow longer and bound patients requiring a
the resilience and strength of our frontline we move along the government’s roadmap hoist into the bath could not
staff across the NHS and, on a personal we look forward to putting this year behind be accommodated without the
basis, those in our Hospice team who are us and accepting the challenge ahead of us bathroom door being left open
still today, after almost a year, coping with – to secure the future of hospice care in our and a temporary screen used to Our huge thanks go to the following,
the ongoing stresses of working within local area and to ensure that patients in the maintain the patient’s dignity and who have, together with a generous
a Covid-19 environment with no let up future have access to the same level of care privacy. private donation, paid for this
or relief. Each day our hospice staff are as patients today. fantastic new bathroom:
donning masks and gloves and caring for We wanted a new room which was
We have an exciting programme of welcoming, soothing, and allowed users • Boxmoor and Berkhamsted
very sick patients, some with Covid-19, and
fundraising events and new developments to truly relax and enjoy the space. This all British Telecom Benevolent
helping their families through their grief – I
from our Retail team to help us to achieve needed to be achieved within the rules Society
could not be more proud to be involved
this – watch our website and social media and regulations set down by the NHS
with Florence Nightingale Hospice than I • Bucks Masonic Centenary Fund
channels for the latest updates. Infection Control department.
have been this year and I know the words • Defaqto
of appreciation they receive from supporters We are so grateful for all of your support The new bath allows patients to have
can be a real boost on a tough day. and wish you the best a real spa experience, to choose from • Slenderpane Ltd
of health for 2021. different bathing positions, and even has • Succession Wealth Ltd.
Across the Charity we have faced difficult
times, with our shops being forced to close Jo Turner CEO its own lighting and sound! A new ceiling
for 7 of the last 12 months, our events hoist will make it much easier for the
nurses too, and will ensure that patients a spa-like tranquil and peaceful place in
cancelled, many of our staff furloughed and which our patients can relax. The new
volunteers stood down. And so in of all mobility levels can benefit from using
it. The bath also has its own cleaning and bath, with its jacuzzi, mood lighting and
January we launched our Crisis Appeal in music functions will benefit patients both
response to the third national lockdown as disinfection system that means it can be
ready for use again in only 15 minutes. It physically and psychologically. For the
we faced a £1,000,000 deficit in our income staff, it will be a much better designed
for the year. will be a huge time saver and allow many
more patients to benefit from a bath. space in which to work. Being able
The response from our community was to help patients with something that
overwhelming – we knew before that our Hospice Ward Sister Kate Lee said “The will improve their wellbeing is hugely
supporters were special but the last couple aim of the new bathroom is to provide satisfying’’
2 3
YOUR STORY YOUR STORY
It was just like being part of
if they could get us anything to eat. They “From start to finish the Hospice was
would come in and sit and hold her hand great, I can’t praise them enough and our
whilst talking to me. In her last week she son and daughter felt the same. Even with
a family while you’re there
wasn’t really saying anything, and couldn’t all the Covid-19 restrictions and guidelines
even hear anything – but just all those little they were still able to visit and there was
things help. It was just like being part of a a relaxed and very calming atmosphere.
family while you’re there” They obviously found it
very difficult too, but the more ill she
David’s wife sadly passed away on 16th
became, the happier they were that she
September 2020, after four weeks being
was being looked after and was at peace
cared for at the Hospice.
and out of pain.”
New guest chairs for Hospice visitors
Sample sub header 1 line
“Whenever I picture my parents
at the Hospice, I am reminded of
the chair my father slept in to be
by my mother’s bedside ”Rosie Reid
Last year a group of supporters, local
organisations and trusts helped to fund
the purchase of 28 chairs in the In-Patient
Unit, including 12 recliners, which sit in
David & Amanda Sanders with their family
each in-patient’s room.
When David Sanders’s wife Amanda
“Once she was in the Hospice, The previous chairs were badly worn
she felt more at peace as it was and no longer compliant with the latest
began to struggle with her balance last The old recliner chairs were badly worn.
summer she undertook a series of tests at much quieter than the hospital. infection control rules brought in to
Stoke Mandeville Hospital to investigate She was at peace in there and combat the spread of Covid-19.
the issue. Sadly what they had hoped that was all we could have hoped These chairs are next to each patients’
would be a minor, easily resolved issue
was discovered to be quite advanced
for and she was also out of pain. ” bed in the Hospice and give visitors a
comfortable place to sit and spend time
cancer in her lungs and brain. Within a She started in a ward with three to four alongside their loved one. Thank you to
week they received the devastating news other patients, but as she deteriorated, everyone who donated to help us fund the
that the cancer was terminal. she was moved to her own private room. purchase of these chairs including;
One of the effects of Amanda’s cancer “It was great to have a room to ourselves, • Buckingham Rotary Club
was that she could not tolerate any noise and as it was warm we were able to open • Jim Gallie
and her medical team at Stoke Mandeville the doors and look out onto the garden. • Rosie Reid
Hospital quickly arranged for her to move The nurses and volunteers kept coming • Watermead and Weedon Women’s
into the Hospice. in and checking if we needed anything or Institute
New infection control compliant guest chair
4 5
WHAT’S NEW WHAT’S NEW
The best reason for getting up early
Jessica Clarke took part in last year’s
Not the Midnight Walk in memory of her
parents, who both suffered from pancreatic
– Not the Midnight Walk is back. cancer and were cared for at the Hospice.
“My mum’s pain and fear were managed
expertly by the staff there. The hospice
team was amazing and allowed me and my
sister to spend as much time as possible
with my mum so she was barely alone.
We even camped in her room for her last
few nights, this was a huge comfort to us
and a very special memory for me.The
hospice were so fantastic in supporting my
family twice that I always want to show my
appreciation and gratitude, and to ensure
Heather Harris was already signed up to that the service continues to be available
do her third Midnight Walk last summer for other families in need.”
when the lockdown led to the cancellation
Jessica walked with a close friend from
of the event.
Wendover to Berkhamsted along the canal.
“I was so pleased when ‘Not The Midnight “it was a great experience and we saw a
After the success of last year’s event walk a minimum of 5 miles starting at 5am Walk’ was announced as it meant I could lot of other people in green t-shirts along
and with the uncertainty of the next few on Saturday 10th July. The event is open still walk in memory of my friend Liz Hall the way. I felt really emotional - it was
months, Not the Midnight Walk will be to all, whatever age and wherever you are and my cousin Niki Dixon who were both special to be out after so many restrictions
back this summer. in the world – last year saw lots of children cared for at the Hospice. It seemed the and the walk offered a chance to reflect
(and dogs) take part and walkers around perfect opportunity to join in and help more than the usual Midnight Walk.”
Set your alarm clocks along with raise much-needed funds despite the
the UK and from as far away as Ibiza! “This year it seems more important than
hundreds of others on Saturday 10th July lockdown restrictions”
and join us (virtually) for a dawn walk to The Midnight Walk is a long-standing and ever to support the hospice - I can’t
raise crucial funds to support the Hospice. major fundraiser for the Charity, and with Heather was away in Yorkshire for the imagine how difficult it is to provide end
our income hit so badly over the past 12 weekend with friends and family who of life care during a pandemic and the
“Whilst we are disappointed not to be able joined her on her dawn walk, along with reliance on the hospice team to provide
months, we really hope our community
to go ahead with our traditional Midnight George their Jack Russell terrier. “Being emotional support as well as nursing care
will get behind us by signing up to this
Walk, we had such an overwhelmingly able to take part with family and friends must be greater than ever.”
year’s virtual event and help us to raise
positive reaction to last year’s event that made for an enjoyable experience as I
the thousands of pounds we need to help
we are confident that it will be a great don’t think we would have joined together
secure the future of local hospice care.
success and raise a fantastic amount of had we been in more ‘normal’ times.
money for the Hospice again” says Julie For more information and to sign up,
Chitty, Events Manager at the Charity. please visit www.fnhospice.org.uk/ We all felt really privileged to be able to
notthemidnightwalk or call 01296 429975. take part and raise funds for the hospice.
This year Walkers are again be asked to Being able to tap into social media, join
in the warm up and connect with some
What did you enjoy about Not the Midnight Walk? other friends who were walking around
• Being able to walk locally • Like that we could do it at own pace • Could choose where I Aylesbury really made us feel connected
wanted to walk and take my dog • Choosing my own route and distance • on the ‘group’ walk too.”
6 7
WHAT’S NEW
A charity shop with a difference
FNHC comes to Buckingham
We are thrilled to bring a different kind
of shopping experience to Buckingham
with the long-awaited opening of a brand
new shop. If you are a fan of unique and
authentic items then you’re going to love
our new shop, brimming with vintage and
retro gems.
Initially due to open in March 2020, this
charming Grade 2 listed building is an ideal
home for our first specialist vintage shop
which will offer a range of fashionable,
preloved, vintage and retro clothing,
shoes, accessories, books and toys and a
selection of classic and timeless homeware.
The shop is located at 23 Bridge Street,
Buckingham, MK18 1EL and will be open
from 9am – 5pm Thursdays to Saturdays –
with an opening date of Thursday 15th April
(subject to government restrictions).
“ Our Charity Shops are a fundamental part
of funding the work of the Hospice services
and with the closure of ‘non-essential’ retail
on three occasions over the last twelve
month; we have seen a significant impact
on money raised.
”
Lily Caswell, Head of Retail
“ Please come
along and
support the
opening of our
new shop – you
never know what
hidden treasures
you might find!
”
9
RETAIL RETAIL
We can’t wait to open our doors again. Keeping Safe It’s in the post
After a year of repeated closures, we are fresh new look and redesigned to help We will be reopening with all our 2020 was a bumper year for Christmas
looking forward to being able to dust off with social distancing. Our brand new Covid-19 secure measures still in cards! With more people sending cards
our tills, turn the key in the lock and open vintage shop in Buckingham will open for place, such as till screens, face to friends and family instead of meeting
our doors for the very first time in 2021. the first time on Thursday 15th April. coverings, hand sanitiser and limited up in person, lots of people turned to
customer numbers to help with social online to buy their cards - we posted out
We are working towards reopening all of
our shops on Monday 12th April in line
“outIt was a huge relief to see the roadmap
of the cycle of lockdowns and
distancing. We are so grateful to all nearly 2,000 packs in November alone! In
our customers for sticking to these fact 43% of all our Christmas card sales
with the government’s update in February rules which keep our shops safe for were sold online in 2020 (compared to
we hope that progress continues as
(subject to any further restrictions). That’s everyone. 15% in 2019).
expected. Our shops are such an
ALL of our shops. This includes our
Thame and Chinnor shops that didn’t important part of how we generate And it may only be March but we’re
open in 2020 – they have been given a income to fund hospice care and the selecting our cards for 2021 already
seven months of enforced closures has - which we’re delighted to say will be
played a huge part in the £1,000,000 entirely recyclable and plastic free!
income deficit we are facing as a
Charity.” Lily Caswell, Head of Retail
Thank you 3B!
Our team have been getting our shops
Haddenham and Aylesbury-based vehicle
ready to re-open and filling the shelves
hire company 3B Hire and Servicing have
with fabulous spring stock. We really
confirmed they will continue funding our
cannot wait to open the doors and see
Shop with us
furniture delivery van for a third year!
our customers again!
This is an enormous help to our Retail
Donations online today team who rely on it for deliveries and
collections of furniture for our Furniture
We are so grateful to everyone who is (and everyday) Showoom on Broadfields in Aylesbury.
sorting and saving donations ready for Look out for the van on the roads and
For those customers who enjoy shopping
when we reopen. villages around Aylesbury when we get
from the comfort of their homes, our
We will be accepting donations in all Online Sales team have been busy back up and running next month.
of our shops when they reopen. throughout all of 2020 and during this
We want to be able to accept all the lockdown too. We have up to a thousand
lovely things you offer us, but we items listed on eBay at any one time so
expect that there will still be some there’s always lots to choose from.
restrictions around how much we can We have loads of great games, books
accept and when, to keep it all safe and films (perfect for lockdown) as well
and manageable. as clothes, homewares, collectables, and
Please do check our website or our electrical items. So if you are looking for
social media for updates and details a charity shop fix while all our shops are
on how to donate safely. closed, visit https://www.ebay.co.uk/str/
florencenightingalehospiceshop
10 11
VOLUNTEERING VOLUNTEERING
“Volunteers bring so much expertise, Volunteering
We have nine Florence Nightingale
Hospice Charity shops – Aylesbury
enthusiasm, passion and fun. And with
Furniture Showroom (Broadfields),
Aylesbury High Street, Aylesbury Opportunities
(Walton Court), Buckingham, Chinnor,
each volunteer we get a new friend.”
Online Sales Volunteer - as part of our
Haddenham (Bradmoor Farm), Thame,
Online Sales team based at Broadfields in
Wendover and Winslow and are looking
Aylesbury, you will help to photograph, list
for volunteers to help in all of them.
We are on the lookout for a number passion or interest you could find along and despatch products sold through our
of volunteers to join our fantastic retail the way! online channels.
team across our nine Charity shops and Shop Volunteer – as part of our Retail
So, what makes people want to volunteer
our online shops. Volunteering offers an Team, you will help to create a welcoming
for us? Andrew, one of our volunteers
opportunity to gain new skills, meet new and vibrant shop for our customers.
explains, “I wanted to do something
people, experience something different, This could include receiving and sorting
useful to help society. I really enjoy
as well as giving back to your local donations, providing excellent customer
volunteering as it’s a varied role and you
community. service, and creating attractive displays in
never know what is going to happen next.
Whether you’re a parent looking to return I enjoy interacting with people and always the shop window and across the shop floor.
to the workplace, a school or college feel appreciated by the team. You really Showroom Van Volunteer - assisting
leaver thinking about your career options, should try volunteering, it’s a great way to our Showroom Van Drivers to collect and
looking to expand on your skill set or meet new people, have fun and feel like deliver furniture at our Aylesbury Broadfields
simply wishing to support a local Charity you are giving something back.”
“
Furniture Showroom.
by giving your time – then volunteering in Our shops wouldn’t run without
one of our shops could be just the thing the help of our volunteers. They We are also looking for volunteers to help
for you. promote the Hospice and our fundraising
keep us company, lift our spirits
activities.
Lily Caswell, Head of Retail says, “There and are always willing to lend a
are a whole range of skills that you can helping hand and for that I am Social Media Advocates – working with
”
gain as a volunteer such as customer our Marketing & Communications team to
always so grateful.
service, merchandising, and working as promote the Hospice and the Charity on
Sam, Assistant Manager
part of a team. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn.
at Bradmoor Farm, Haddenham.
“The benefits to volunteering are endless, Marketing Support Volunteers – We are
looking for skilled marketeers with expertise
Hospice Lottery
not only can it help you develop your
career by gaining valuable experience that in digital advertising, graphic design or
you can then add to your CV, it’s also a Lily added, “Volunteers provide essential branding to support some of our projects.
We receive over £200,000 of funding
great way to build confidence, resilience support to the work of Florence Community Volunteers - supporting our
from The Hospice Lottery Partnership
and connect with other people.” Nightingale Hospice in many ways and and this is only possible thanks to all of Fundraising team with administration of
Helping others can give you a boost of provide at least £750,000 worth of hours the wonderful supporters that take part collection boxes, street collections and our
satisfaction, and this has a huge impact to the Charity each year. We could not in the weekly lottery draw and bi-annual events.
on mental wellbeing, so not only are you do without them. “ Superdraws.
To find out more about any of these roles,
contributing to making a real difference So, if you are friendly, motivated, and up Thank you for your continued support and please contact our Volunteering Team on
to the Hospice, the patients and their for a challenge as well as helping your good luck in the draw! Find out how to 01296 429975 or
families, you’re also making a difference community, then we would love to hear play at https://www.hospicelottery.org.uk/ email volunteering@fnhospice.org.uk.
to your own. Who knows what new from you.
12 13
WHAT’S NEW WHAT’S NEW
Virtual Rainbow to give
Money raised from the project is
being split between the Bucks NHS
Trust Charitable Fund and Florence
Thank You...
message of thanks to NHS Nightingale Hospice Charity. The The construction of Nightingale’s
Charitable Fund recently confirmed that Rainbow is being funded by a number
money it receives will go towards staff of local businesses, individuals and
wellbeing through the BHT Covid-19 organisations. Our grateful thanks go to
A digital extension of Nightingale’s Rainbow is being built and will allow supporters to Staff Wellbeing Appeal*. all of our Build Sponsors. Here are the
add a personal message of thanks to the NHS or dedicate a part to a loved one. ones we are able to mention:
Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity is working to create a Virtual Rainbow, which will This includes: • acar2go
replicate the physical version about to commence construction at the entrance to Stoke • supporting staff wellbeing and mental • Aylesbury Town Council
Mandeville Hospital. Both will commemorate the enormous sacrifices, commitment and health
care of NHS workers during the pandemic. • Buckinghamshire Freemasons
• funding wellbeing packs for staff • Dell Motors
Nightingale’s Rainbow is a visible representation of the public’s gratitude to the NHS
staff, who continue to face significant pressures from Covid-19, and will greet staff as • enhancing staff areas to provide • Human Engine
they arrive to work at the Hospital. comfortable spaces for staff to sleep
or take a break during/after their shifts • McCormick
It is expected to be the first major physical commemoration of the role played by nurses, • Quality Milk Producers (QMP)
doctors and other healthcare workers in the fight against coronavirus. • purchasing other items or activities
that enhance the wellbeing of staff • Sodexo
We are grateful to the many supporters who have already sponsored tiles on the rainbow caring for COVID-19 patients. Special thanks also to Aylesbury Garden
and all will now be able to post a personal message on the digital version.
Town for their grant to cover the costs of
Construction of the physical rainbow is landscaping around the structure.
expected to begin soon – you can follow
We would like to thank the following
its progress on social media and in the
professionals for their time and expertise
local media.
in putting this project together.
We will be in touch with all supporters
• Andrew Breathwick, Director, Michael
who have already sponsored the
Jones Architects Ltd
Rainbow Tiles to arrange for your
dedications to be placed on the digital • Ian Lancaster, Principal, Lancaster
version. New sponsors will be able to Designs, Structural Engineers
place their own dedication as soon as • Adeel Raza, Chartered Surveyor,
the virtual rainbow is complete. Rosecroft Consultants Ltd
To show your support for the NHS and This a great project for local businesses
contribute to both NHS staff wellbeing to engage with to show their support for
and the Hospice, visit www.fnhospice. the community and to help raise funds for
org.uk/nightingales-rainbow the two charities.
If you would like to find out more about
*The list in this appeal is not exhaustive and becoming a Silver or Bronze Sponsor
donations will support our local hospitals and NHS
please get in touch with Emma Carroll at
staff when they need it the most and the charity
emmacarroll@fnhospice.org.uk to find out
reserves the right to use the funds for similar
more.
charitable purposes.
14 15
YOUR STORY YOUR STORY
The Day Hospice How does your garden grow?
has helped me stop
feeling isolated
Helen Spinks started attending Day
Hospice in January 2020, six years after
her initial referral following a breast cancer
diagnosis.
“When I was first referred to the palliative many aren’t, and we just have fun without
care service in 2014, the specialist nurse having to apologise or explain if we find
offered it as a means of support. I refused something difficult because of our medical
at the time because I didn’t feel ready for it conditions.
and being under 50 I believed (mistakenly)
that all the other patients would be much “It’s clear that a great deal of thought
older than I was. In 2019 I asked my and planning has gone into the Day
Did you know the name Florence means Prosperous, Flowering?
palliative care nurse if she thought it would Hospice, making it a truly therapeutic
be helpful, as I was feeling isolated. experience and much more than just
a get-together.” Would you like to be part of a We will support you to ensure that all Open
The Hospice has supported me by
Gardens are Covid-19 secure and comply
providing expert physical and psychological fantastic & floral new fundraising
with any government restrictions in place at
support with weekly meetings that enable I’ve been very struck by the commitment of initiative for Florence Nightingale the time.
the staff to promptly review the effect of any the staff who spend the whole day with us
interventions they have suggested. Knowing Hospice Charity?
Bingo!
without a break, eating lunch with us and
that their expert advice and care is easily promoting conversation if necessary - they Being confined to our homes for much of
available has given me confidence to live as are amazing. the last year, we know that lots of you have
I want to without too many “what ifs”. turned to your gardens as a lockdown Join us for our virtual Bingo Night
The volunteers there also contribute so on Sunday 28th March from 6pm.
Meeting other patients has made me project or haven of peace and safety away
much to the experience. The commitment A fantastic fun evening on Zoom for
realise how lonely I was beforehand. from Covid-19. With restrictions relaxing
of Michael, a volunteer driver who drives all the family, all for your Hospice.
I appreciate being able to talk openly would you be willing to share and show off
me there and back, enables me to have a Find out more at fnhospice.org.uk/bingo
about anything without the fear of causing your hard work and help raise funds for the
positive experience without having to ask
distress to my family and friends. Being Hospice in our Season of Open Gardens?
my husband or family to take me for yet
able to talk about what might happen as another appointment. We are looking for individuals, streets and
my disease progresses has helped me to communities to open their gardens to the
My husband and close friends say that
be realistic about what I can do on a day- public for a day or two between May and
attending the Day Hospice has had a
to-day basis, without beating myself up August this summer.
positive effect on my mood. Until I needed
about managing less than I used to.
palliative care, I hadn’t realised how much So whether your garden is small or large,
Meeting people in the Day Hospice who Florence Nighitngale Hospice relied on urban or rural, traditional or modern,
are in my situation has been amazing. We charitable funding. I am incredibly thankful please get in touch to find out more at
encourage each other, chat and laugh. for those who donate and undertake fundraising@fnhospice.org.uk or call Claire
Some of our conversations are serious, fundraising activities. on 01296 429975.
16 17
END OF LIFE PLANNING END OF LIFE PLANNING
Home, Hospital or Hospice? Have you thought about leaving a
Have you ever discussed with your
partner, parents or extended family Why not try starting the conversation
gift in your Will?
where you or they would prefer to spend today? The chances are you are reading this changing sums of money. Any sum at all,
your final days? newsletter because you support Florence after you have provided for your loved ones
Other subjects you might want to talk
Nightingale Hospice Charity. There are many and friends, will make a difference. This is
Death is a difficult conversation to have, about could include
reasons why people support this charity; a chance to continue to make an impact,
and one many people would rather • Your digital legacy – what happens often tied up within the personal emotions and be remembered and valued for your
not start. But discussing these topics to your social media accounts , the of loss and grief, but also thankfulness and contribution, long after you have died.
sooner can make things much easier information on your phone, or your relief. The Hospice is a place that holds
when it comes to making decisions The Charity receives an average of
personal computer, or even the cloud special memories for a lot of people.
about end of life care at a more £150,000 a year from legacies. These sums
emotional and difficult time. • Care of dependents – children or So, how do you support the Hospice? You allow us to invest in new services and grow
parents, for example may join in our events, give cash donations, the number of local people that we are able
At Florence Nightingale Hospice we have
• Organ donation donate items to our shops or even organize to support and care for. In recent years it
an In-Patient Unit which offers respite
your own fundraising. But, have you thought has been money left in wills that has allowed
care as well as end of life care and we • Funeral arrangements about how you might continue to support the Charity to commit to fully funding the
are now able to support end of life care
• Your will FNHC after your death? The need for your two year pilot of our FNH@Home service
in people’s homes through our FNH@
help will continue as future generations face which has cared for so many people in their
Home service. As with any medical • Worries you’d like to discuss about
terminal illness in greater numbers as our homes in the past year.
situation, it may be that decisions have being ill and dying
population grows and lives longer.
to made for clinical reasons but being
aware and informed about your loved The NHS website has more information A logical next step in your support could “I might not see the difference that
one’s opinions and options may help you be to leave a gift in your will to Florence my gift makes but I know I’m doing
about end of life care at https://www.
during their final days. nhs.uk/conditions/end-of-life-care/ Nightingale Hospice Charity. Gifts in Wills,
also called legacies, do not need to be life-
something and it feels great. ”
Anonymous Legacy Donor
Make a Will Month June 2021
Contact Emma at emmacarroll@fnhospice.org.uk
for more information
18 19YOUR STORY YOUR STORY
People mustn’t be frightened “My Dad was a local farmer, and it was so
important to him to stay at home.”
of the word Hospice We got a hospital bed in the lounge and he could
look out of the patio windows to see the house and
farm where he grew up, where some of his children
Stephen was cared had been born and where we had all grown up.
for at the Hospice for That’s what he wanted and I am so glad that that’s
two weeks up to his what he had.”
death in February. “The nurses were brilliant. One nurse was there
Anne said, “I visited with my Mum and Dad virtually all morning to help
every day and the sort out his meds. Nothing was ever too much
last few days I stayed trouble for any of them. “
there the whole time.
Anne’s final thoughts about the Hospice? “People
They were amazing.
mustn’t be frightened of the word Hospice. They
The nurses are just
really mustn’t because until you have been in one
incredible. It was very
or had the care of one. You don’t fully understand
quick in the end. At
how good and how helpful they can be.”
the time it was very
hard but looking back
now, I’m glad he
In 2013, Anne McMullen’s husband,
Stephen, was diagnosed with Acral
didn’t suffer for any longer.”
After Anne’s husband passed away, she
Could you be a Bereavement Listener?
lentiginous melanoma, a rare form of took up the offer of our Bereavement Our Bereavement Listening Service offers Sadly, but not unexpectedly, our service
skin cancer that grows on the hands Support Service. “I did have the one-to-one sessions with specially trained is experiencing a high level of demand
and feet. Sadly, the following year further bereavement counselling pretty much and supervised volunteer Bereavement at the moment and we will be running a
tests found that cancer had spread to his straight away from the Hospice for Listeners. The Service has been running training course for new volunteers in April.
lungs and brain. about eight or nine months. At the time throughout the past year, continuing to
If you would like to find out more about
After a few weeks in hospital in early I thought ‘I don’t know if this is going to offer support to those who need it via
volunteering as a Bereavement Listener,
January 2015, he returned to stay with do any good’. But looking back, it does. telephone and video calls.
please contact our Bereavement Support
Anne’s parents but the cancer had made It was good to have someone that you
“When you are going through one of team on bht.fnh.bereavement@nhs.net or
him very weak and he was repeatedly could talk to, it didn’t matter if I stopped
the worst times of your life because call 01296 332 600.
falling. It became clear that he could not and cried.”
somebody significant has a life-limiting
stay at home and he was moved to the
“One of the greatest things I enjoy
Anne’s father Richard was also cared illness or has died, it is so devastating,
In-Patient Unit at the Hospice. for by the Hospice last year. Our FNH@ so all-encompassing, and you can feel
as a Bereavement Listener is when
“At first, he wasn’t sure whether
Home service was launched in October completely alone. We cannot fix it but
2019 to improve our capacity to allow we can be alongside you emotionally and the client says ‘I feel better now, I can
he wanted to be there, but then patients to stay at home and be cared give you the space to say exactly how manage.’ That gives me an enormous
once he got there, he said he felt for there when they are at the end of their you are feeling and enable you to explore
safe. They were his words.’ I feel life and they were able to support Anne’s your thoughts with a compassionate
amount of satisfaction. ”
”
father fulfil his wish of dying in his home. listener,” says Ann Kenny, Bereavement Angela Webley,
safe here’ says Anne.
Service Lead. Volunteer Bereavement Listener.
20 21IN MEMORY
Honouring and celebrating your loved
one through the most difficult of times.
Coping with bereavement is a difficult
thing to face at any time. Restrictions due
to the pandemic have made this even
harder with families having to stay apart
and many not being able to say their
goodbyes in the way they would wish.
With this in mind, we have partnered
with Much Loved who offer the ability to
create online Tribute pages, in the hope
that families and friends can use these as
We need to raise £2,740 every single
that shared, safe space to come together
in their grief to remember, honour and
celebrate the life of that special someone.
the page and can also link any fundraising
activities and events you may be taking
day to run our services at the Hospice.
What is a tribute page? part in, including JustGiving pages, but
this is completely optional.
Your donations help to support over 1,100 patients and
A tribute page is an online memorial that
you can create to honour, celebrate and
their families every year.
remember your loved one. The pages ‘A Memory in your Pocket’ You help to fund
can be completely personalised to make
We are told by families who set up a • Our In-Patient Unit of 12 beds in the Hospice.
them just as unique and individual as the
tribute page that knowing they are able to • Our FNH@Home team of qualified nurses who can administer medication,
person you are remembering.
visit the page and connect to that person and Healthcare Assistants who support patients at the end of their lives
Photos, videos and even songs that they have lost whenever they wish is a in their homes.
have special meaning can be added welcome comfort to them, referring to • Clinical Nurse Specialist Team in the community.
to the page. Stories and memories them as a ‘memory in my pocket’. • Our Day Hospice which offers physical, therapeutic and emotional support to
can be shared, important dates such people who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness.
Being able to share our memories
as birthdays and anniversaries can be • The Lymphoedema Clinic.
and grief with those close to us is so
marked and virtual candles can be lit.
important after bereavement and, during
ACTUAL SIZE (1:1 SCALE)
• Florrie’s Children’s Team who offer respite care for children with life-limiting
illnesses, in their own home.
The pages are easy to set up and you a time when we have perhaps been
• Training and support for our volunteer Bereavement Support Team.
can choose a Tribute guardian who has unable to do this in person, we hope that Please Note: Colours and print quality may vary between the above proof and final printing.
full control over what can be added our Tribute pages can offer you a place
and who can view the page. There is to connect, remember and celebrate your
Thank you copyright
for yourSmilesupport
If a specific colour is required, please inform us of the Pantone reference number.
Advertisement Publishing Ltd
no expiry date on the page, meaning it someone special. Forever.
can remain an everlasting tribute and Keep up to date with our latest news on social media
For more information, please visit www. SMILE PUBLISHING LIMITED, HOLLY HOUSE, 220-224 NEW LONDON ROAD, CHELMSFORD, ESSEX CM2 9AE TEL: 0800 083 5222 FAX: 01
celebration of their life.
fnhospice.org.uk/donations-in-memory
You can choose to donate to Florence or contact our In Memory Officer at Florence Nightingale @fnhcofficial @fnhospice
Nightingale Hospice Charity through michellemerrison@fnhospice.org.uk Hospice Charity
22 23COMMUNITY COMMUNITY
A big thank you to...
Tring Radio presenter, Keely
Purnell shaved her head
to raise over £1,200 for the
We feel hugely privileged to have had the support of our community over this difficult Hospice.
year. We have seen such incredible generosity of time and effort from individuals, groups
and businesses to raise money in an amazing variety of innovative ways. It has been an Lucy Bailey and her friends
enormous boost, not only to our income, but also to our spirits to hear and see what you took on a sponsored 20km walk
have been up to. Do get in touch and let us know via fundraising@fnhospice.org.uk if you in memory of Lucy’s aunt who
are planning anything this year. was cared for at the Hospice last
summer, raising over £2,000!
Our long term supporter and Haddenham Shop Volunteer Josh and Ben, who ran a marathon for us last year in memory of their friend Dan,
Molly Taylor sold winter plants and Christmas wreaths also persuaded Ed Sheeran to sign and donate a guitar which was sold at auction
from her house through December raising over £1,800! for £2,600!
The amazing boys and staff at Berkhamsted School Sha’nesu Gutsa and her family have been raising money for the Hospice who
virtually trekked to Florence and back, each travelled are caring for her father. They have already raised over £500 through the sale of
at least 48 km by running, walking, swimming, or chocolate brownies!
cycling. Their Charity Prefect chose to support us as his The fantastic Speen Helping Hospices did not let Covid-19 stop their fundraising
stepmother was cared for at the Hospice last summer. activities and they raised £4,500 from a range of events including a virtual
The boys raised over £2,000! Christmas Fair.
Vic & Bear – the Cuddington bears - published Jen Ladyman ran 100 miles in February (while pushing a double buggy!) to raise
their exploits and raised over £600 through the over £1,000 for the Hospice which cared for her mother in the last eight weeks of
sale of their booklet. Thanks to 2D Print World, her life.
the Barnard Family, Erica and Tris Pulver, Chris
Blumer, Chris Long and Cuddington Village Voice And we wish the very best of luck to our supporters Fiona Martin, Sharon
for supporting their project. Ashton and Stephen Moore who have all taken on long-term challenges
to support the Hospice.
Gemma Kahl, whose father was cared for at the Hospice, Long-term supporter Fiona Martin is (virtually)
braved the shave and cut her luscious locks to raise over £2,000! walking 874 miles from Lands End to John
O’Groats. She has already covered over 360
A group of wonderful ladies from miles and raised over £500 .
Drayton Parslow knitted and sold these Sharon responded to our Crisis Appeal in
fantastic festive mice, raising £663! January and has pledged to walk 1,000 miles
by the end of October, and is already close to
Donna Callander from MBT Fitness and Bevan Givens meeting her £1,000 fundraising target.
from TWDS Digital, along with 16 fitness friends, completed
23,965 squats in an hour to raise £200 for the Hospice! Stephen, whose wife is a nurse in our In-patient
Unit, is taking on a series of ’50’ challenges
each month – so far he’s completed a 50k run in
10 year old Zach walked 10,000 steps every day for 10 January and rowed 50 miles on a cross trainer in
Sharon Ashton Fiona Martin February.
days to raise £764 for our Hospice while he has been
home schooling.
We will keep you up to date with their progress over the year.
24 25THANK YOU HOSPICE MESSAGE
We are so grateful to all the local businesses and
organisations which support our work in lots of ways.
In your words
The team at Defaqto ended our Charity all the Simply Biz offices around the UK. Each day our hospice staff care for and If you would like to share your
of the Year partnership with a smile with We’ve enjoyed watching and supporting support very sick patients and their experience of our Hospice to
a Christmas Jumper Day in December. them all the way – thank you Defaqto! families. This has been a particularly help others understand just how
Over the previous 18 months, long and hard year and we know the important hospice care is to those
We welcome two more businesses words of appreciation they receive who need it please do get in touch at
Defaqto employees have raised an
this year as Corporate Partners: from supporters can be a real boost on hospicestories@fnhospice.org.uk.
amazing £2,295.87 through a range
of challenges, coffee & cake sales and Giles Ellerton and his team at Right At a tough day.
raffles. The company also match funded Home Aylesbury Vale and Chilterns
a further £770 to celebrate the efforts have chosen to become a Corporate
of everyone who took part in a virtual Partner this year. Giles said “Right at “You looked after both An amazing service with
challenge to travel the mileage between Home is delighted to be supporting my parents in their a team of nurses with a
Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity. time of need, with clear passion to support
The work that they do across our such calmness and during the most difficult
communities in Buckinghamshire is kindness. I don’t know time in any family’s world.
priceless.’’ Right at Home are also a We are so thankful to
what I would have done
Nightingale’s Rainbow Bronze Sponsor. have had this support
without your services”
when we needed it most”
Aston Commercial Cleaning will be
asking their customers for a voluntary
donation on their invoices and will
match every donation. Plus the team “My brother was looked
will also be giving the carpets in our “You made the last after by your caring,
Aylesbury Furniture Showroom a good days of my wife’s life thoughtful staff when we
couldn’t get him home
spring clean prior to our re-opening in the absolute best
Defaqto in his final days. As soon
April. they could have as he was in the hospice
been, filled with love he seemed calm and
was given a dignified
and care.Thank you”
Thanks to all you Gin lovers infused gin; Foxdenton will continue to
sell Flo’s Tantalizing Tipple throughout the
last few days with family
around him”
Thank you to everyone who has bought Spring and Summer seasons.
a bottle of Flo’s Tantalising Tipple - a new Buy online at www.foxdentonestate.
and exclusive gin liqueur developed by “I cannot speak higher of
co.uk/shop/flos-tantalizing-tipple the care the staff here gave “This hospice is
Foxdenton Estates. an oasis of peace
my Mum for over three
For every bottle sold, £5 was donated weeks. There felt like there and tranquility
to our Charity and we’re thrilled to was a small army of them,
but rather than feeling a little
and the staff and
announce that Foxdenton Estates have
soul-less like hospitals can volunteers are so
already donated £1,690! And we’re even
more excited to share the news that due
be and every one of them patient, caring and
was warm, professional and dedicated”
to the success and popularity of this compassionate”
wonderful blend of apricot and raspberry
26 27Paul Jones Maggie McCarthy Julia Gorecki
Simon Williams Lisa Lai Elliot Peters
Steve Ayers Tony James Christelle Rina
Anthony Scott Isla Hamilton (with Abby) Jude Morris
Listening to every story
Because no two situations are the same
Legal support for everyday and life changing
events. To book a video call or urgent in-person
meeting, call 01296 506087 or visit kiddrapinet.co.uk
AY L E S B U R Y FA R N H A M H I G H W YC O M B E LONDON MAIDENHEAD SLOUGHYou can also read
