Prospect Hospice, a cornerstone of compassionate end-of-life care in Swindon and northeast Wiltshire, is launching an urgent appeal to bridge a critical £1 million funding shortfall.
The Wroughton-based charity, rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission, provides 24/7 care to patients, entirely free of charge, relying heavily on community donations to cover 75% of its £8 million annual operating costs.
Founded in 1980, Prospect Hospice serves over 300,000 people in areas including Swindon, Royal Wootton Bassett, Marlborough, Pewsey, Lechlade, and Fairford. The hospice’s specialist teams deliver tailored clinical, emotional, and practical support to patients and their families, both at the hospice and in their homes.
However, rising costs and stagnant government funding have placed immense strain on the hospice’s finances. Charlotte Forrest, the new director of income generation, has stressed the severity of the situation: “The gap in our funding is a serious threat to the vital services we provide. We urgently need the support of our community to continue offering the high level of care and support that our patients and their families rely on.”
Forrest, who joined the team in February, is continually inspired by the community’s generosity and dedication. “Last year, Prospect Hospice cared for more than 2,000 patients completely free of charge. The truth is, we simply couldn’t do that without support from the public.”
With the cost of living soaring and increasing demand for services, the charity is appealing to the public for help. Every donation, no matter how small, plays a crucial role in ensuring families like Sinéad and Harry’s receive the care they desperately need.
Sinéad shares her heartfelt experience: “Harry was just 25 when he was diagnosed with cancer that caused paralysis. From the beginning, the hospice’s physio team was incredible. They came to our house and provided a positive focus for him every day, giving us structure, routine, and hope during a devastating time. I don’t know how we’d have managed without them.”
Sinéad continues to champion the hospice, understanding the profound impact of potential service cuts. “It’s my worst fear because I know how much our family depended on them.”
To support Prospect Hospice, you can make a one-off donation or set up a regular monthly gift. Contributions can make a significant difference:
- £25 could pay for an hour of support from a nurse, offering respite to family and friends.
- £60 could fund an hour’s stay in the inpatient unit, allowing families to be together in their final hours.
- £100 could cover a series of specialist physio sessions for patients like Harry.
For more information and to donate, visit www.prospect-hospice.net/helpourhospice.
