In so many ways, the last few years have been testing for all of us. With lockdown and the sudden lifestyle changes feeling so alien, many of us were forced to ask questions and make assessments that were equally new. The finitude of life for many has never been more evident than now.

Catherine Boswell, Director of Income Generation at leading charity Hospice UK, which supports over 200 hospices nationwide, said: “The pandemic has really highlighted the crucial role hospices play for people at the end of life, and their families.” During the pandemic, as fundraising dried up, Hospice UK’s vital work helped ensure that the work of hospices around the country could continue.

Perhaps this heightened appreciation for both life, and the role that hospices play in improving the quality of life for many, is the reason a recent Gala Dinner for Hospice UK was so successful. The event, which was hosted at The Savoy on Tuesday 12th October, featured a speech by actor and director, Simon Callow CBE, as well as a silent auction with prizes including a movie poster signed by Sir Michael Caine; an exclusive weekend stay at the historic Antony House, Cornwall with dinner and golf; and a private plane ride.

More recently, Hospice UK funding helped the Mary Stevens Hospice’s No Barriers Here project create arts workshops that helped people with learning disabilities get involved in important conversations about their own end of life care. With people with a learning disability more likely to die at a younger age, and also frequently experiencing inadequate or poorly coordinated care, the project is an example of Hospice UK’s mission to ensure everyone, no matter their background or circumstances, gets the end of life care they need.

Catherine Bosworth, Director of Income Generation at Hospice UK, said: “The evening was a huge success, and thanks to the generosity of those who attended, we raised an amazing £107,000, which will go a long way to make sure people across the UK with life-limiting conditions, and those nearing the end of life, get the care they need. The pandemic has really highlighted the crucial role hospices play for people at the end of life, and their families. Hospice UK continues to support hospices across the country, alongside the NHS, to make sure people get the care they need, now and into the future.

“Without support and donations from the public, this essential work could not continue.”

Hospice UK is the national charity working for those experiencing dying, death and bereavement. Hospice UK works for the benefit of people affected by death and dying, collaborating with our hospice members and other partners who work in end of life care. Find out more via their website.

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