Children’s Grief Awareness Week 2023

Children's Grief Awareness week

Children's Grief Awareness Week

When a loved one dies it can be confusing or scary time, especially for children and teenagers. That’s why Sunbeams exists –  Rotherham’s only bereavement support group specifically for young people.

Sunbeams helps children and teenagers to process their grief and express and understand their emotions.

As part of Children’s Grief Awareness Week 2022, our Sunbeams children decorated shapes showing what helps them cope with the loss of a loved one. This was made into the beautiful Sharing Shapes Mural.

Find out about participating in the Sharing Shapes Mural for Children’s Grief Awareness Week 2023 HERE.

Sharing Shapes Mural for Children's Grief Awareness Week
The Sharing Shapes mural 2022 was made by over 80 groups, including Sunbeams, to show how we cope with grief and remember our loved ones.

Sunbeams at Rotherham Hospice​

Sunbeams offers bereavement support to children and teens who are experiencing the serious illness or death of a loved one cared for by Rotherham Hospice.

Our specially trained counsellors provide support through creative activities in after-school groups, as well as family sessions and sessions for parents and carers of children affected by bereavement. 

Over the years, Sunbeams has supported hundreds of Rotherham families during difficult times. You can find out more about Sunbeams and how to get a referral here.

Free resources for carers, parents and teachers

Here are some booklets you may find helpful, click to download:

How you can help

As a charity, Rotherham Hospice relies on the generosity of our amazing community for services like Sunbeams to keep going. 

The quickest & easiest way to support Rotherham Hospice is to become a regular giver. Anything you can give will make a difference to a Rotherham family experiencing end-of-life illness. Thank you.

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

LC Vehicle Hire keeps Rotherham Hospice rolling!

LC Vehicle Hire supports Rotherham Hospice

LC Vehicle Hire keeps the Hospice rolling

LC Vehicle hire have generously waivered the lease fee for Rotherham Hospice on a 3.5 ton Luton Tail Lift for a whole year!

This means Rotherham Hospice will be able to accept and collect many more donations of larger items such as sofas, tables and chairs, to be sold in our charity shops. Not only could you furnish your home for an absolute bargain, but this supports vital end-of-life care in Rotherham.

Managing Director Chris Miller is delighted to be able to support local organisations like Rotherham Hospice.

LC Vehicle Hire is a family run business established by Chris’ dad in 1957. They are market leaders in commercial vehicle hire and sales, with a wide range of vehicles available for contract hire, short term rental and sales.

LC Vehicle Hire specialises in construction, highway maintenance, traffic management and haulage vehicles while also able to offer cars, vans and 4×4’s ad has a  fleet of over 2000 vehicles operating from 6 depots, 4 of which are in Yorkshire.

LC vehicle hire logo
LC Vehicle Hire handing over the keys for a luton van to Rotherham Hospice

Thank you from everyone at Rotherham Hospice. Thanks to you and all our supporters, Rotherham Hospice has been able to help hundreds of people in the past six months at a time it matters most.

How you've helped Rotherham Hospice

Trustees Week 2023

Trustees Week - what does a trustee do?

Trustees Week 2023

Ever wondered what a “Trustee” is and how they impact Rotherham Hospice?

Let’s break it down!

What is a Trustee?

Trustees are dedicated individuals who volunteer their time and expertise to serve on the board of Rotherham Hospice. They play a vital role in guiding and supporting the Hospice’s mission. Find out more about Rotherham Hospice’s trustees here. 

What do Trustees do?

Trustees are responsible for setting out the Hospice’s plans for the future, ensuring it remains true to its mission, and making critical decisions. They oversee finances, governance, and policies.

The difference Trustees make

Our dedicated trustees bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to the table. They work tirelessly to ensure Rotherham Hospice can provide top-notch care to our community.

Thank you to our Trustees!

This Trustee’s week everyone at Rotherham Hospice would like to thank our wonderful trustees. Chair of Trustees Bruce Warner sums it up:

“There can be no greater privilege than to help people and their families in their darkest hours, and that is something all of our staff and volunteers do with tremendous skill and compassion on a daily basis. Being a trustee is in itself a huge honour and ours at Rotherham Hospice are amongst the finest. They bring experience from across many walks of life and have one thing in common – they want to give something back.”

Without our trustees Rotherham Hospice would not exist. They give their time and expertise for nothing so that our staff and volunteers can provide comfort to the people of Rotherham when they need it most.

To our incredible trustees, thank you for your unwavering commitment to Rotherham Hospice. Your dedication is the driving force behind the care we provide. Together, we make a real difference!

How you can help

As a charity, Rotherham Hospice relies on the generosity of our amazing community to keep caring for the people of Rotherham.

The quickest & easiest way to support Rotherham Hospice is to become a regular giver. Anything you can give will make a difference to a Rotherham family experiencing end-of-life illness. Thank you.

Here’s how your support has helped in the past 6 months:

How you've helped Rotherham Hospice

The Diamond Partners Shine a Light on Rotherham Hospice

Diamond partners shine a light on Rotherham Hospice

The Diamond Partners making a big difference to hospice care in Rotherham

 In June 2023 6 local businesses came together to form the Diamond Partners. In an inspiring act of community spirit AESSEAL, Mears, SteelPhalt, Equisolve, Hughie Construction and IPM Group put Rotherham Hospice on Rotherham United Football Club‘s official 23/24 season football kit.

Rotherham Hospice Director of Income Generation Stephen King explains the difference the Diamond Partners have had 4 months on:

The impact of the partnership has been huge. Rotherham Hospice has never had so much exposure in the local area. We are finding that conversations about the charity are a lot easier to have with businesses and supporters, as most are now aware of who we are and what we do. 

Another huge benefit of this partnership is the increase in corporate support over the past few months. We have had several companies invest in sponsorship opportunities for various events including Light Up A Life & the Christmas Fair. We have also seen an increase in the amount of companies that want to support us as their Charity of the Year.

Everyone at the Hospice is grateful to the Diamond Partners for making this happen. The level of publicity we have received as a result has been something we could not possible have achieved by ourselves.

The number of heart-warming comments supporting the initiative was overwhelming and clearly shows the unfaltering community spirit that Rotherham United fans have for Rotherham Hospice and their local community.

Increased awareness and the support that has brought means we can care for more local families at a time it matters most. So far this year:

How you've helped Rotherham Hospice

Why your support matters

Rotherham Hospice cares for families experiencing an end-of-life illness, both physically and emotionally. As a charity, Rotherham Hospice needs to raise £3 million each year to fund vital end-of-life services and we can only do it thanks to our amazing supporters like you.

Thank you!

The Christmas Shop is OPEN!

Christmas shop now open

The Rotherham Hospice Christmas Shop is now open! Stock up on Christmas cards, calendars and diaries and support local hospice care in Rotherham. 

Christmas Cards 

When you buy Christmas cards from Rotherham Hospice, you’re helping us support families going through an end-of-life illness, not just at Christmas but 365 days a year.

We have 8 festive designs available in our Hospice charity shops, on our website and at pop-up shops at Rotherham Hospice on 2nd, 7th and 15th November.. 

From a cheerful Santa, to traditional designs, we have cards that will bring a smile to your loved one’s face.

Each pack contains 10 beautiful Christmas cards. 

Shop now
Shop Now
Shop Now
Shop Now
Shop Now
Shop Now
Shop Now
Shop Now
Shop Now
Rotherham Hospice landmarks calendar 2024

2024 Calendars 

Our ‘Landmarks of Rotherham’ 2024 calendar makes a wonderful gift! 

Featuring photographs of local landmarks taken by local people, this calendar looks lovely hanging on anyone’s wall. 

The pictures are also perforated and can easily be removed and turned into postcards.

Shop now

Diaries

 

Our 2024 Diaries are now available in two fresh designs! 

Cheerful light blue with with our gorgeous Hospice red sunflower.

Stylish dark green with the Hospice logo in silver. 

These diaries are the perfect size to pop into your handbag or coat pocket and get organised for 2024. 

Shop now
Shop Now
Shop Now

Where to buy

 
  • Shop online and choose home delivery, or pick up from the Hospice
  • Rotherham Hospice has 5 charity shops stocking a wide range of brand new cards and diaries, as well as lots of pre-loved bargain gifts. You’ll find them in Rotherham Town Centre, Herringthorpe, Wickersley, Dinnington & Wath.
  • There will be several pop-up shops at Rotherham Hospice:
    • Thursday, 2nd November, 4-7pm
    • Tuesday, 7th November, 4-7pm
    • Wednesday, 15th November, 4-7pm

 Come and see us on Broom Road, Rotherham, we’d love to say hello!

Why your support matters

 

Rotherham Hospice cares for families experiencing an end-of-life illness, both physically and emotionally. As a charity, Rotherham Hospice needs to raise £3 million each year to fund vital end-of-life services and we can’t do it without our amazing supporters like you.

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

3 Benefits of Volunteering

3 benefits of volunteering

3 Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteering is a wonderful way to show your support for a cause close to your heart, but did you know it also comes with some great benefits for you?

1. Community

Volunteering is a great way to meet people and make friends. You become part of a community of people who care about the same things you do. 

Many of the volunteers at Rotherham Hospice have had a loved one cared for by the Hospice and appreciate spending time with fellow volunteers who truly understand the difference Hospice care can make.

Amy's story - Amy and Gaynor

Volunteer Amy Lowson, whose mother Gaynor was cared for by Rotherham Hospice, explains, “I wanted to have a connection with the Hospice to keep the connection with my mum alive.”

2. Well-being

Giving time and energy to others is proven to give us a sense of purpose and make us happy! 

Joanne told us about what she loves about volunteering in bereavement support at Rotherham Hospice: “the Hospice feels a nice place to be. Life is so important… even in the last few days of life. Make them as brilliant and special as you possibly can. I just think that’s a lovely, wonderful thing.”

Joanne Bereavement Counselling Volunteer

3. Boost your CV

Whether you’d like to learn new skills or put the ones you already have to good use; volunteering looks excellent on any CV and makes you more employable.

 

5 people smiling and waving
Learn more about Volunteering

Rotherham Hospice is looking for volunteers. Could you be just the person?

Rotherham Hospice is helped by our wonderful volunteers, who work alongside nursing, support and fundraising staff to help the Hospice care for people going through an end-of-life illness. 

We have a range of well-defined volunteering roles to suit different kinds of people, with specific training provided. Our volunteers do such a great job because they love what they do and get as much out of it as they put in. 

There are lots of different ways to get involved:

  • Charity shop volunteer – we have shops in Rotherham, Herringthorpe, Wickersley, Wath and Dinnington.
  • In-Patient Unit, for example taking patients their meals or offering companionship should they need it.
  • Fundraising volunteer – help at fun events like the Christmas Fair or Midnight Memory Walk.
  • Bereavement support volunteer – listening and talking to help somebody through their grief can have a huge impact on their life.
  • Kitchen volunteer – put your culinary skills to good use in the Hospice kitchen.

For more information about volunteering with Rotherham Hospice, please call 01709 308 900 or email volunteering@rotherhamhospice.org.uk.

Learn more about Volunteering

Why your support matters

Rotherham Hospice is the only adult Hospice in Rotherham – providing vital palliative care for the people of Rotherham and its surrounding villages. Last year, the Hospice made 8,787 home visits and saw 383 patients on our InPatient Unit. Rotherham Hospice is an independent charity that relies largely on the generosity of the people and businesses of Rotherham.

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

Matched Giving and how it works

Matched Giving and how it works

Matched Giving and how it works

At the heart of matched giving is the idea that every donation can go further. When individuals donate to Rotherham Hospice, their contributions are matched by their employer, effectively doubling the impact of their generosity. This means that even modest donations can make a substantial difference in the Hospice’s ability to provide essential palliative care services to those in need.

Matched giving programs also create a sense of community engagement, where employees and businesses come together to support a common cause.

Lyndsey Dunworth works for Natwest and has been involved in the Hospice in many ways.

“Rotherham Hospice is a charity very close to my heart and whenever there is an opportunity to help in anyway then I will always volunteer my time.  I know how hard everyone there works and I feel passionately about supporting my local community.”

Whether she volunteers her time or hosts a fundraiser at work, Lyndsey’s employers match her hard work:

“I am very lucky to be supported by my employer to volunteer during work time and even further supported by them in terms of any fundraising or volunteering I do – they will match my fundraising and they will also give money to my chosen charity for volunteering hours.  This makes it really easy for me and my colleagues to go that extra mile and give back.”

Lyndsey is also part of a team taking part in the Alton Towers Half-Marathon this year for Rotherham Hospice! 

Matched giving with the Natwest volunteers
Sponsor Lyndsey

How you can find out if your employer offers Matched Giving

Feeling inspired by Lyndsey’s story? Why not find out if your employer offers matched giving! If you’re not sure where to start, here’s some helpful tips on

Check Company Intranet or HR Resources

One of the first steps employees can take is to explore their company’s internal resources. Many businesses communicate information about their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, including matched giving, on their intranet or through human resources materials.

Ask HR or Management

Directly reaching out to your company’s HR department or management team is a straightforward way to ask about matched giving programs. They can provide details about the program’s eligibility criteria, matching ratios, and the process for participating.

Review Employee Benefits Handbook

Some companies include information about matched giving in their employee benefits handbooks. This resource often outlines the specifics of the program and provides guidance on how to participate.

Collaborate with Colleagues

Sometimes, colleagues who have previously participated in matched giving programs can provide valuable insights and guidance. They may be aware of the process and can help navigate the application or donation matching steps.

Why your support matters

Rotherham Hospice is the only adult Hospice in Rotherham – providing vital palliative care for the people of Rotherham and its surrounding villages. Last year, the Hospice made 8,787 home visits and saw 383 patients on our InPatient Unit. Rotherham Hospice is an independent charity that relies largely on the generosity of the people and businesses of Rotherham.

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

If you want to find out more how you or your company can help Rotherham Hospice, reach out to us at fundraising@rotherhamhospice.org.uk or call 01709 308 900!

Midnight Memory Walk 2024 – Early Bird Sign Up – OPEN

Early Bird registration now open for Midnight Memory Walk 2024

Midnight Memory Walk 2024 is coming!

Sign up by 31st March for the early bird price of just £12.50!

 
Enjoy a memorable night by taking part in the Midnight Memory Walk 2024 around Rotherham with lots of love and laughter.
 
Midnight Memory Walk 2024 is a fun and exciting experience where you can get together with old friends and make new ones while raising money in remembrance of your loved ones for Rotherham Hospice. 
 
Get dressed up as bright and colourful as you wish – we have lots of glitter to make you sparkle.
 

With your help, the Midnight Memory Walk will be our biggest event ever. By walking 10K through Rotherham in the middle of the night, you’ll be supporting people affected by end-of-life illnesses across Rotherham. Who will you walk for?

When

Saturday 22nd June 2024, starting midnight (ending Sunday 23rd June)

Where

10K through the streets of Rotherham, starting and ending at Magna, Rotherham.

Sign Up

Early bird sign-up

Sign up by 31st March for the early bird price of just £12.50!

Your early bird Midnight Memory Walk registration includes:

  • Midnight Memory Walk T-Shirt
  • Refreshments midway on the walk
  • A celebratory cuppa and a butty at the end
Sign Up
Early Bird registration now open for Midnight Memory Walk 2024

Volunteer

Are you interested in being part of our biggest event of the year, but don’t fancy walking 10 or 15K? 

As a charity, Rotherham Hospice relies on amazing volunteers to help to make the Midnight Memory Walk a fun and safe event. 

You could volunteer to:

  • be a midnight marshall to ensure walkers stay on the course
  • help register our walkers before the event begins
  • distribute Midnight Memory Walk T-shirts in the days before

If you would like to help the Hospice, please call 01709 308 700 and ask for fundraising, or email fundraising@rotherhamhospice.org.uk.

Register to volunteer

Why your support matters

Rotherham Hospice cares for families experiencing an end-of-life illness, both physically and emotionally. As a charity, Rotherham Hospice needs to raise £3 million each year to fund vital end-of-life services and we can only do it thanks to our amazing supporters like you.

How your fundraising helps Rotherham Hospice

Sandra nominated for Pride of Britain for Rotherham Hospice

Sandra nominated for Pride of Britain for Rotherham Hospice

Sandra is our Pride of Britain!

Everyone at Rotherham Hospice wants to congratulate Sandra Jones, Manager of our Herringthorpe Charity Shop, who was recently nominated for the Mirror’s Pride of Britain Awards. 

Sandra was nominated in the Fundraiser of the Year category as recognition for everything she does for Rotherham Hospice and her local community around Herringthorpe. 

Sandra is passionate about helping her local community,  starting as a volunteer for Rotherham Hospice over 10 years ago. She later became Assistant Manager, then Manager of our Herringthorpe charity shop.

It's a little shop with a big heart that's what we always say. The customers, the volunteers, everyone – absolutely amazing.

Sandra Jones, Rotherham Hospice Shop Manager
Sandra, shop manager for Rotherham Hospice is nominated for Pride of Britain

As a charity, Rotherham Hospice relies on its shops to raise money needed to care for local people and their loved ones going through an end-of-life illness. It’s thanks to people like Sandra that our charity shops are more than just places to find pre-loved treasure at bargain prices.

Clinical Nurse Specialist Vicki explains, “It’s patients and families of patients that have passed away that go into these shops and that’s quite a sensitive time for them. Without realising it, they can be in floods of tears so Sandra and her team and all the other volunteers in shops, they have to be a listening ear sometimes and a comforting ear.”

Sandra puts her all into making everyone feel welcome in the shop. Thank you for all your effort!

Stephen King, Director of Fundraising for Rotherham Hospice

Sandra made it to the final four nominations for Pride of Britain for the Yorkshire & Humber region and was featured on ITV Calendar News. Well done Sandra from everyone at Rotherham Hospice and all the people whose lives you’ve touched!

Inspired by Sandra's story?

Volunteering is a brilliant way to learn new skills, meet new people and feel good in the knowledge you are giving back to your local community.

Rotherham Hospice has all kinds of different volunteering opportunities available, from shop assistant, to bereavement counsellor to volunteer gardener. 

Our volunteers get as much out of volunteering as they put in, and are an essential part of ensuring Rotherham Hospice can support our local families.

Learn more about Volunteering