Help Our Nurses Provide Compassionate End-of-Life Care: Lynne & Johnny’s Story

Help Us Provide Compassionate End-of-Life Care: Lynne & Johnny's Story

My wife, Lynne, was lucky enough to experience the incredible care provided by the nurses and staff at Rotherham Hospice. After being in and out of the hospital, the difference in the care we received at the Hospice was truly remarkable.

For Lynne and me, arriving at Rotherham Hospice felt like stepping into a place of comfort and support, where the compassion and attention of the nursing staff made a real difference. Lynne was initially admitted for advanced symptom management, her time there showed just how above and beyond the dedicated team would go to make a difference. She felt so comfortable, it became Lynne’s wish to die at the Hospice.

It was a wish of mine and Lynne’s to get married, but with the changing situation, our original plans had to be cancelled. That’s when the nursing staff suggested we have the ceremony at the Hospice. On Thursday, June 13th, they turned the Hospice conservatory into a beautiful wedding venue. What we thought would be a simple signing of paperwork became a magical wedding, with friends, family, and fellow patients there to share the moment. The nurses, who dubbed themselves “Team Bride,” made sure Lynne had an unforgettable day.

Lynne said that during her time here in the Hospice, the nurses became like family and I couldn’t agree more. From a simple smile, to a well needed cuppa on a hard day, to the honest conversations we needed about Lynne’s condition that made processing our situation easier, the team here at the Hospice made us feel welcome, reassured and comfortable.

I was with Lynne when she passed away at the Hospice on Thursday, July 11th – one month after our wedding. While the pain of losing her will never go away, I’m comforted by the memories we made during her time there, and I’ll always be grateful that she spent her final days surrounded by such love and exceptional care.

Please donate today to ensure that everyone in Rotherham receives the care they deserve at end of life like Lynne.

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More people than ever now need Rotherham Hospice’s care

Every year, 2,362 people in our community require end-of-life care, yet currently, only 45% of them receive this essential support.

Every day, four individuals in our area die without having had access to end-of-life care.

Sadly, this number will only increase. Rotherham Hospice is seeing more people needing care than ever, and they need our help to support as many people in our community as possible.

Today, I’m reaching out to ask if you can help by contributing to Rotherham Hospice’s nursing care. Any amount you can give will help ensure that patients receive the highest quality care, in a safe and comfortable environment. Your donation will be put straight to work, making sure nobody like Lynne misses out on the treasured life-changing moments or vital nursing care they deserve at the end of their life.

Rotherham Hospice is a charity and relies on people like you to help provide this essential care to patients and their families. The clinical team is skilled at managing complex symptoms and end-of-life care, covering everything from physical to emotional, spiritual, and social needs. They’re there not just for the patients, but also to support families and friends, offering guidance and advice about their loved one’s illness, symptoms, and treatment.

From my own experience, I can tell you that the staff at Rotherham Hospice are truly remarkable. They didn’t just focus on Lynne—they also checked in on me, and on her family and friends who visited. They could take one look at me and know how I was and what I needed.

I want to make sure that everyone who needs it, can receive the same incredible care that Lynne and I experienced at Rotherham Hospice.

Join us in Making a Difference

Please donate now – with your generosity, another person in Rotherham will get access to the care and support they need at the end of their life.

Together we can ensure nobody faces terminal illness alone.

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Midnight Walk 2024 raises over £90,000 for end of life care in Rotherham!

Rotherham Hospice Midnight Walk Raises Over £90,000 for end-of-life care Rotherham

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that the 2024 Rotherham Hospice Midnight Walk was a resounding success, raising an astonishing £90,353! With the support of over 900 passionate walkers, this incredible achievement will go a long way in helping us continue providing the essential care and support our community needs.

A Night Filled with Love, Reflection, and Togetherness

The Midnight Walk was more than just a fundraiser—it was a night where our community came together to remember, reflect, and honor those we’ve lost. It was a chance to celebrate their lives while making a real difference for others.

For many, this walk held a special place in their hearts. One participant shared a touching reflection:

John Breckin kicking off the Memory Walk 2024 at Magna, raising money for Rotherham Hospice to support end-of-life care in Rotherham.

“My mum was nursed at Rotherham Hospice until the end in March this year. The staff are ALL truly amazing, and I know my mum was with us on the walk. She would be amazed at what we achieved in her memory.”

This sentiment was echoed by so many walkers, each with their own stories, memories, and reasons for walking. Glenn and Chris, who took part in the walk just four days after their sister Janet’s funeral, said:

“What can I say? You’ve done it again. It was an absolutely brilliant night, turning Magna into Magma, overflowing with generosity and joy. We look forward to doing it all again next year.”

The Impact of Your Support

Thanks to the generosity and dedication of our walkers, the funds raised will directly support the crucial services Rotherham Hospice provides. Whether it’s offering comfort and dignity to those facing life-limiting illnesses or supporting their families through difficult times, every pound raised will make a meaningful difference.

One walker perfectly summed up the spirit of the night:

“All in all, it was a very enjoyable experience, and I’m glad to be able to give something back to the Hospice and raise desperately needed funds. Keep up the good work.”

Looking Forward to 2025

With such an amazing turnout and incredible results in 2024, we can’t wait to do it all over again next year! Mark your calendars for Saturday, 7th June 2025, as we aim to make the next Midnight Walk even bigger and better. We’re already looking forward to seeing familiar faces and welcoming new ones as we come together once again for a night of unity, reflection, and hope.

Register for 2025 NOW for just £5!

Get Involved

Whether you walked with us this year or are thinking of joining us for the first time, we’d love to have you with us in 2025. You can walk, volunteer, or simply spread the word—every bit of support helps us continue our vital work.

Thank you to everyone who made the 2024 Midnight Walk such a success. Your kindness, generosity, and community spirit are what make Rotherham Hospice such a special place.

Let’s make 2025 another unforgettable year!

Peter’s £2,000 Lottery Win: Supporting Rotherham Hospice

Peter’s £2,000 Lottery Win: Supporting Rotherham Hospice

We are thrilled to share some fantastic news from Local Hospice Lottery! Peter, a dedicated supporter of Rotherham Hospice, has won an incredible £2,000 in the lottery. This win is not just a personal triumph but also a wonderful testament to his commitment to our cause.

Peter’s connection to Rotherham Hospice is deeply personal. He reflects, “I’m delighted to have won £2k through playing the Local Hospice Lottery and to have supported Rotherham Hospice in the process. Rotherham Hospice cared for my wife through her illness, and I’m glad to be able to support them to help other families in our area that are dealing with life-limiting illnesses.”

The Local Hospice Lottery plays a crucial role in providing a steady and reliable stream of income for our operations. This consistent funding helps us offer personalised care and support to local families facing life-limiting illnesses. Peter’s win not only brings joy to him but also reinforces the importance of our community’s support.

Peter’s message to others is clear and inspiring: “I would encourage anybody to support Rotherham Hospice through the lottery and be in with a chance of winning this amazing amount of money!”

By participating in the Local Hospice Lottery, you are not just entering for a chance to win; you are contributing to a vital cause that supports families in our community. Your support makes a significant difference and helps us continue providing the compassionate care that Rotherham Hospice is known for.

To join Peter and support Rotherham Hospice, sign up for the Local Hospice Lottery today.  Your involvement will help ensure that we can continue offering our services and making a positive impact in the lives of those who need it most.

Thank you for your continued support and for being a part of our community. Together, we can make a difference and offer hope to many families in need.

How to Get Involved

Sign Up for the Lottery: Visit Local Hospice Lottery and sign up now! Local Hospice Lottery gives its players a great chance to win, whilst also enabling them to make a real difference to children and adults affected by cancer and other life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses in their local community.

When you sign up, you can choose to support Rotherham Hospice, meaning your entry helps to fund our essential services.

We appreciate every bit of support and look forward to celebrating more wins and successes with you!

Sign up to the lottery now!

Grand Opening of Rotherham Hospice’s Manvers Charity Shop

Celebrating the Grand Opening of Rotherham Hospice's Innovative Charity Shop in Manvers

We’re excited to share some fantastic news with our community! On Monday, 5th August, Rotherham Hospice proudly opened the doors to our brand-new charity shop in Manvers. This isn’t just any shop—it’s the first of its kind in our retail lineup, featuring a fresh, innovative design that we believe will redefine charity fashion shopping in our area.

The grand opening was a heartwarming event, marked by a special ribbon-cutting ceremony. The honour of cutting the ribbon went to Jonathon, our very first volunteer in Manvers. His involvement perfectly encapsulates the spirit of community and volunteer support that is at the heart of everything we do here at Rotherham Hospice.

This new shop in Manvers represents a bold step forward in our retail strategy. It’s a pilot for a new look and feel that we’re planning to extend across our existing stores. And it doesn’t stop there—this concept is also paving the way for our first-ever superstore at Great Eastern Retail Park in Parkgate, which we’re eagerly anticipating opening in Autumn 2024.

Our CEO, Mat Cottle-Shaw, shared his excitement about this new chapter for Rotherham Hospice:
“The opening of our Manvers shop marks the beginning of an exciting few years for Rotherham Hospice. This shop is the first manifestation of our ambitious strategy, shaped by the valuable insights gained from our recent community survey. Our goal is to enhance and expand our retail offerings, starting with Manvers and continuing with the launch of our superstore in Parkgate later this year and other locations across Rotherham.”

The positive feedback we’ve received already is truly encouraging. One of our first customers was thrilled with their shopping experience, saying:
“I walked in thinking I wouldn’t be able to afford the clothing, but the prices are amazing! It’s wonderful to see secondhand clothes that are presented so nicely and still affordable.”

Our new shop in Manvers isn’t just about offering a unique shopping experience; it’s also a crucial part of how we fund the vital services we provide. Charity shops like ours generate 30% of the income needed to keep Rotherham Hospice running. By shopping with us, you’re directly supporting the compassionate, high-quality care we provide to patients and their families.

We invite everyone to visit our new shop, discover some great fashion finds, and support our mission. Your purchases make a real difference in the lives of those we care for.

Thank you for being part of our journey. Together, we’re making a difference, one purchase at a time.

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Rotherham Hospice Welcomes the New “Letters to Heaven” Post Box

Children and teachers from Thrybergh Fullerton School in front of the Letters to Heaven post box they fundraised for.

Rotherham Hospice Welcomes the New “Letters to Heaven” Post Box, Fundraised by Thrybergh Fullerton School for Our Sunbeams Children’s Bereavement Support Group

At Rotherham Hospice, we are dedicated to providing compassionate care and support to our community, especially to the young hearts in need. Today, we are thrilled to announce the installation of our new “Letters to Heaven” post box, a heartfelt addition that has found its place in our beautiful Reflection Garden at the front of the Hospice.

A Gift from the Heart

The inspiration behind this post box came from a touching news story about six similar boxes being installed around Sheffield. This idea resonated deeply with us, particularly within our Sunbeams Children’s Bereavement Support Group. Sunbeams offers a safe haven for children dealing with loss, and writing letters to their loved ones in heaven has been a cherished activity within the group. Until now, these letters were lovingly placed in a handmade box in our lodge. Thanks to the incredible fundraising efforts of Thrybergh Fullerton School, we now have a dedicated, beautifully crafted post box where these precious messages can be sent.

Our Letters to Heaven Post Box in our Hospice Reflection Garden

A Community Effort

The students and staff at Thrybergh Fullerton School have shown extraordinary generosity and spirit in their fundraising efforts. Their commitment to supporting Sunbeams is a testament to the strength and compassion of our community. When the school representatives visited the Hospice to see the new post box, they shared their heartfelt sentiments:

"Sunbeams is run and maintained by a group of very special people who have so much love and care for the young children of Rotherham. They provide invaluable support for children in their time of need and support each one individually. The hard work that is done by everyone at the hospice is something to be recognized and our school, along with others, are very grateful for this. We look forward to fundraising with you again in the future."

Thrybergh Fullerton School

We are deeply moved by their words and grateful for their support. The partnership between Thrybergh Fullerton School and Rotherham Hospice demonstrates how we can come together to create meaningful and lasting impacts in the lives of children and families.

A New Way to Stay Connected

Lisa, our Sunbeams Coordinator, has seen firsthand how the act of writing letters brings comfort and a sense of connection to the children in our care. She shares:

"Our Sunbeams children have written letters to heaven for some time but posted in a handmade box in our lodge. To have something like this with a beautiful Reflection Garden beside it will be fantastic for the children and adults here at the Hospice."

Lisa Worrall

Writing down thoughts and feelings helps children process their emotions and communicate with their loved ones who have passed away. Whether they are sharing news about a goal scored in a football game, their progress at school, or a recent birthday celebration, these letters allow them to maintain a bond and feel close to those they miss.

"The act of writing down thoughts and feelings can bring comfort. Our Sunbeams children have used it as a way to share how they are feeling and to communicate news with their loved ones, telling them about a goal scored, how they are doing at school or what they did on their birthdays. It's a way for them to still feel connected."

Lisa Worrall, Sunbeams Coordinator

A Sacred Space for Memories

Every letter or card placed in the “Letters to Heaven” post box is treated with the utmost respect and is never read. This new post box is more than just a receptacle; it is a sacred space where children and adults alike can express their deepest thoughts and keep their memories alive. It stands as a symbol of hope and connection in our Reflection Garden, providing solace and peace to all who visit.

Join us in Making a Difference

Rotherham Hospice is a beacon of hope and care in our community. We provide essential services to individuals and families facing serious illnesses and bereavement. However, our ability to offer these vital services relies heavily on the generosity of our supporters. Every donation, whether large or small, makes a significant difference in the lives of those we serve.

Our “Letters to Heaven” post box and Reflection Garden are just one example of how community contributions can create a lasting impact. With your help, we can continue to offer compassionate support to children through our Sunbeams group and extend our care to countless others who rely on our services.

We invite you to be a part of our mission. Whether you choose to make a donation, participate in fundraising events, or volunteer your time, your involvement is invaluable. Together, we can ensure that Rotherham Hospice remains a sanctuary of comfort and care for all who need it.

For more information about how you can contribute to Rotherham Hospice, please click here.

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Crafted with Care: Our new Care Boxes for patients

A photo of care boxes provided to terminally ill patients who are cared for at Rotherham Hospice filled with luxury pamper products, a colouring book and pencils, and forget me not seeds to give to loved ones.

Crafted with Care: Our new Care Boxes for patients

At Rotherham Hospice, we are committed to providing compassionate care that extends beyond medical treatment. Today, we are excited to launch our new Care boxes, specially crafted to welcome our patients and serve as meaningful mementos for their loved ones.

As part of our ongoing commitment to person-centred care, our nursing staff have meticulously assembled each Care box. These boxes are more than just practical items; they embody our dedication to ensuring every patient feels comfortable and valued during their stay with us.

Jayne Lowe, Deputy Director of Clinical Services and Head of Patient Experience, expressed the importance of these Care boxes, stating, “This is just another way we go above and beyond for our patients and make sure their stay with us here at the Hospice is as comfortable and welcoming as possible.”

What's Inside?

Each Carebox contains carefully selected items designed to enhance comfort and promote relaxation:

  • Charcoal infused loofah for gentle skin care
  • Nail brush and hair comb for personal grooming
  • Luxury soap, lotions, shower gel, and shampoo & conditioner for a pampering experience
  • Soft flannel for everyday use
  • Forget-me-not seeds to symbolize lasting memories
  • A heartfelt poem to uplift spirits
  • A relaxing colouring book and pencils for moments of tranquillity

Beyond the Present

Beyond their immediate use, these Care boxes serve another profound purpose. They can be transformed into memory boxes after the patient has passed away, becoming an important part of the bereavement journey for their loved ones. This transformation allows families and friends to gather meaningful memories and treasures that celebrate the life and legacy of their loved one.

Jayne Lowe emphasized, “Turning these Care boxes into memory boxes is an important step in your bereavement journey, helping you to collect meaningful memories of your loved ones.”

Gratitude and Support

The creation of these Careboxes would not have been possible without the generous support of our community. Your donations have enabled us to provide these thoughtful and comforting items, enriching the lives of our patients and their families during a challenging time.

Join us in Making a Difference

As we continue to uphold our commitment to compassionate care, we invite you to join us in supporting initiatives like our Care boxes. Your contribution can make a significant difference in enhancing the quality of life for our patients and their families.

If you would like to help us continue providing special things like these Care boxes, please consider donating today. Your support allows us to create moments of comfort and joy for those in our care.

At Rotherham Hospice, every detail matters. Our Care boxes exemplify our dedication to person-centred care and creating lasting memories that bring comfort and solace to those we serve.

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Volunteers’ Week at Rotherham Hospice

Volunteers’ Week at Rotherham Hospice

This week (3rd-9th June 2024) is Volunteers’ Week where, across the country, we celebrate the amazing volunteers that give their time up for a cause.

At Rotherham Hospice, our amazing volunteers work hard every day and ensure we can continue to do the work we do. From serving teas and coffees to patients and loved ones, to working hard in the garden or at one of our charity shops, to counselling grieving loved ones or supporting our Sunbeams Children’s Bereavement Support Group – we can’t thank our Volunteers enough for all the hard work they do.

We wanted to share the stories of four volunteers – why they volunteer for the Hospice, what they do and what their favourite thing about volunteering is.

Stephen's Story

Read here

Paige's Story

Read here

Andrew's Story

Read here

Aimee's Story

Read here

Why volunteer?

Volunteering doesn’t just help us – it helps you too! Through volunteering you can…

  • Learn new skills and gain valuable work experience in an area you might want to develop a career in.
  • Make new friends who have the shared interest of giving back to their community.
  • Develop better physical and mental health and wellbeing whether that’s through getting your steps in on your shift or the positive buzz of helping those in need.
  • Improve your confidence through meeting new people every day.
  • Connect with your community and give something back.

Volunteering can be as big or as little a commitment as you want – whether it’s a weekly shift in our IPU or a marshall at a one off fundraising event, every form of volunteering matters and helps us immensely.

If you fancy volunteering with Rotherham Hospice, get in touch! Find out more about our volunteering opportunities here or give us a ring on 01709 308 900.

Join us for our Coffee Morning at Rotherham Hospice

Join us for our Coffee Morning at Rotherham Hospice

Living with a palliative illness can be an incredibly challenging journey, not just for the individuals experiencing it, but also for their loved ones. At Rotherham Hospice, we understand the importance of support, community, and shared experiences. That’s why we’re thrilled to invite you to our monthly Coffee Mornings, held in collaboration with Weston Park Cancer Charity.

What Are Coffee Mornings?

Our Coffee Mornings are designed to provide a warm and welcoming environment where people living with a palliative illness can come together, enjoy a comforting cup of coffee, and connect with others facing similar experiences. It’s a space to share stories, offer support, and find solace in knowing you’re not alone.

When and Where?

These gatherings take place on the last Thursday of every month at Rotherham Hospice.

Why Attend?

  1. Build a Support Network: One of the most valuable aspects of our Coffee Mornings is the opportunity to meet others who understand what you’re going through. Sharing your journey with those who truly get it can be incredibly reassuring and empowering.

  2. Learn About Available Support: We’ll have experts from both Rotherham Hospice and Weston Park available to discuss the various types of care and support available to you. This is a great chance to ask questions and gain insights into managing your condition.

  3. Enjoy a Sense of Community: There’s something profoundly comforting about coming together in a space where everyone is focused on understanding and supporting one another. It’s a reminder that you’re not alone in this journey.

Get in Touch

We believe that these Coffee Mornings can make a positive difference in your life, and we’re excited to welcome you to our next gathering. If you have any questions or need more details, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. You can contact us at 01709 308900.

Why your support matters

Your support will play a pivotal role in enhancing our ability to deliver compassionate and comprehensive services to our patients and their families. Whether it’s providing essential medical care, offering emotional support, or creating a comforting environment for our patients, your support will directly contribute to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

At Rotherham Hospice, we believe that every individual deserves to live their final days with dignity, surrounded by love and care. Here’s just some of the ways your support could help.

£20, £50 or £100 raised could make a big difference to Rotherham Hospice

A Haven of Comfort: Rotherham Hospice’s Bathroom Makeover

Patient relaxing in Rotherham Hospice's newly renovated bathroom, surrounded by tranquil ambiance and luxurious amenities.

A Haven of Comfort: Rotherham Hospice's Bathroom Makeover

At Rotherham Hospice, our mission goes beyond providing medical care; we strive to create an environment where patients feel cherished and at ease. We’re thrilled to share some exciting news with you: our bathroom has undergone a stunning transformation!

Thanks to the incredible generosity of PN Decor and M&S Meadowhall, our bathroom has been given a fresh new look and feel. With a fresh coat of paint and luxurious bath products, the space now exudes tranquillity and comfort.

The first to experience this revamped bathroom was Sarah, who shared her delight: “It doesn’t feel clinical at all – it feels like a spa! It smelled absolutely divine.” Sarah’s words perfectly capture the essence of what we aim to achieve at Rotherham Hospice: creating a home away from home for our patients.

We believe that every small detail contributes to our patients’ well-being, and this renovation is a testament to that belief. Whether it’s a refreshing shower or a relaxing soak in the tub, our patients can now enjoy a moment of relaxation and rejuvenation during their stay with us.

As a charity, we rely on the generosity of our community to continue providing these essential services. Your support truly makes a difference in the lives of those we care for. If you’d like to contribute to our cause, please consider making a donation or getting involved in our fundraising efforts.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this transformation possible, and thank you to our supporters for standing by us in our mission to provide comfort and care to those who need it most.

Our new bathroom

Why your support matters

Your support will play a pivotal role in enhancing our ability to deliver compassionate and comprehensive services to our patients and their families. Whether it’s providing essential medical care, offering emotional support, or creating a comforting environment for our patients, your support will directly contribute to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

At Rotherham Hospice, we believe that every individual deserves to live their final days with dignity, surrounded by love and care. Here’s just some of the ways your support could help.

£20, £50 or £100 raised could make a big difference to Rotherham Hospice
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Dying Matters week with Rotherham Hospice

Dying Matters Awareness Week with Rotherham Hospice

As we stride into Dying Matters Awareness Week 2024, Rotherham Hospice stands as a beacon of support and advocacy, joining hands with The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust, NHS Blood and Transplant, and Weston Park Cancer Charity. Together, we’re igniting conversations, challenging taboos, and fostering a culture where discussing death and dying is not only accepted but encouraged.

This year’s theme, ‘The way we talk about Dying Matters,’ resonates deeply with our collective mission. It’s about more than just words; it’s about the profound impact language has on our experiences with death, both as individuals and as a society. From healthcare professionals to patients, carers, and families, the way we communicate shapes the journey of end-of-life care.

Throughout the week, we’ve curated a calendar of events in collaboration with our partners, designed to engage, educate, and empower our community:

Tuesday, 7th May 2024: Surgical Division at Rockingham Day Room, from 9:00 to 13:00. Join us at Level C Junction 4 for insightful discussions and shared experiences.

Wednesday, 8th May 2024: Medical Division at A2 Day Room, from 10:00 to 14:00 at Level A Junction 1. Additionally, catch the Big Purple Bus outside in the car park from 13:00 to 15:00, offering a unique space for meaningful conversations.

Thursday, 9th May 2024: Find us at Breathing Space from 10:00 to 12:00 , and from 12:00 to 14:00at Rotherham Health Centre. These sessions provide a supportive environment to engage in open dialogue.

Friday, 10th May 2024: Join us in the Outpatients Room on Reception A, located at the entrance to OPD, at 14:00. 

Amidst these engaging events, Rotherham Hospice remains committed to offering bereavement resources for those navigating the delicate journey of grief. Our doors are open, and our hearts are ready to listen and support you through every step. Find out more about our bereavement services.

In a society often hesitant to broach the topic of death, these conversations are more than necessary; they’re vital. By breaking the silence and fostering understanding, we pave the way for compassionate end-of-life care and meaningful connections.

Together, let’s embrace the power of conversation during Dying Matters Awareness Week 2024. Join us as we amplify voices, share stories, and ensure that every individual’s journey is met with dignity, respect, and understanding.

Remember, your voice matters, and your story deserves to be heard. Let’s talk.

Find out more about Dying Matters Awareness Week.

Why your support matters

Your support will play a pivotal role in enhancing our ability to deliver compassionate and comprehensive services to our patients and their families. Whether it’s providing essential medical care, offering emotional support, or creating a comforting environment for our patients, your support will directly contribute to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

At Rotherham Hospice, we believe that every individual deserves to live their final days with dignity, surrounded by love and care. Here’s just some of the ways your support could help.

£20, £50 or £100 raised could make a big difference to Rotherham Hospice