Hartlepool and East Durham patients and families to benefit from £36,000 Freemasons grant
Patients and families in Hartlepool and East Durham struggling with the hidden costs of end-of-life care are to receive extra support thanks to a significant grant.
Durham Freemasons has awarded £36,000 to Alice House Hospice in Hartlepool which will fund a specialist role to support patients and families facing loss of income and rising costs.
The role will focus on identifying financial hardship early and helping people access advice, benefits and support services.
A small hardship fund has also been established to provide limited practical support, such as travel costs for families visiting loved ones.
Karen Gibson, from Alice House Hospice, said: “We’re very grateful for the continued support from Durham Freemasons.
"This funding will make a real difference to local people at an incredibly difficult time and ensuring patients and families can access the care and support they need.”
During the process, Duncan Maw from Durham Freemasons met with Karen and members of the hospice team to discuss how the funding would be used.
Working alongside the North Tees Specialist Palliative Care Team, the specialist will support earlier intervention, ensuring that patients and families are signposted to available support before financial pressures escalate.
This includes guidance on benefits, referrals to support organisations and providing reassurance during a critical stage of care.
Duncan said: “I’m very pleased we’ve been able to help Alice House. Our continuing backing for the Hospice will help ensure families receive care, dignity and support when they need it most.”
The grant follows an earlier £3,000 award from Durham Freemasons which raise and distribute more than £100,000 each year to support local good causes.