Hartlepool hospice losses top £1 million due to Covid - but here's how you can help them

Almost all of the hospice’s large-scale fundraising events have sadly had to be cancelled or postponed due to social restrictions leaving a big hole in its finances.

Hospice CEO Tracy Woodall said they are having to come up with new ways of raising money with lockdown measures set to continue and the future still uncertain.

But Tracy praised the public and businesses who have continued to raise money for patient care despite the difficulties and appealed for others to do the same.

And there are a number of ways the public can help fill the gap through a number of upcoming events including the rescheduled Purple Week this week.

Tracy said: “The challenges from lockdown and beyond are ongoing and have affected everyone.

"At Alice House, we have been forced to compromise services, restrict visiting and completely re-think our fundraising. Our estimated losses this year are around £1,000,000.

“Hardly any of the plans we had for 2020 have been possible sadly, but we have weathered the storm thanks to an incredible response from the community and local businesses.

"We have received donations of food, resources, PPE equipment and money to ensure that our services could continue.

"Our current challenge is to develop new and sustainable ways of generating income as the future is still uncertain.

"I would like to thank everyone who has helped us throughout this difficult time and hope that as many as possible can get involved in this year’s Purple Week.”

The hospice has to raise £2.8 million a year in the community to continue providing specialist palliative care, counselling and support to hundreds of Hartlepool and East Durham people.

Its annual Purple Week returns from October 5-11 after being postponed earlier this year due Covid.

Businesses, schools, groups and individuals are encouraged to find a way to turn the town purple – the hospice’s colour.

Ideas include workplaces wearing purple clothing, holding a purple-themed raffle, cake sale, and taking part in a sponsored run or walk.

For more information and ideas visit the hospice’s website or contact Nicola Winwood on (01429) 855554 or email [email protected]

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