Hospice Care Week takes place between 8th – 13th October, an annual week to raise the profile of hospices and the care and support they provide. This year Hospice UK are asking one of the most important questions – what does it take to keep a hospice running?
Jessie May is just one of more than 200 hospices across the UK who provide inpatient and home support for people and their families. But this support and care would not be possible without the donations we receive, and the people behind the scenes who keep us ticking like a well-oiled machine.
£1.5bn a year, 30 Nurses, 10 Trustees, 5 Fundraisers, 4 Admin Staff and 1 CEO – that’s #WhatItTakes to run a charity like Jessie May.
“Jessie May wouldn’t be where we are without the generous support we’ve been given over the years from the community, Corporates and many Trusts and Grants. But whilst we are thankful for the donations that come in, we also can’t forget all the hard-working individuals we have both at our Bristol and Swindon bases who keep Jessie May running on a day-to-day basis.
From our Admin and HR staff, our incredible Fundraising Team, right through to our dedicated team of Nurses. Jessie May is one big family; a family that supports families, and to us that is truly special.”
– Chris Roys, CEO.
There are a number of ways that you can support Jessie May and help us to continue providing the care our families so desperately need. These are just a few:
1. Attend a Jessie May event
Our calendar is always jam-packed with some amazing events. From charity concerts and theatre productions, to snooker tournaments and pamper experiences – we’re sure to have something for everyone!
Why not head down to one and join in the fun? Our team will be there, in their iconic purple t-shirts, handing out leaflets and collection donations in our money buckets – so please go up and speak to them if you see them!
2. Don your running shoes
Over the years hundreds of you have strapped up those laces, pinned a number to your vest and run all in aid of Jessie May. Whether it be a 5k, 10k, half marathon, or full 26-mile marathon (you crazy lot), the Jessie May name has covered thousands of miles.
Whilst the running calendar may be over for this year, we’ve got so much coming in the 2020 season! You can sign up now to run the Bath Half Marathon, as well as secure your place on #TeamJessie for Virgin Money London Marathon 2020 next April!
3. Volunteer your time
Fancy giving up your time to help Jessie May? We hold a number of events throughout the year, and we’re always looking for keen volunteers to help us man our stalls and to spread the word of Jessie May far and wide.
Previously we’ve had pop-ups at the South Gloucestershire Show, Castle Combe Steam Rally as well as events run by our Care Team such as our family respite days.
Find out how you can volunteer here.
4. Play the lottery
Jessie May have recently partnered with the Local Hospice Lottery, giving our supporters a way to make a monthly donation, as well as giving them a chance to win.
Playing the Local Hospice Lottery in support of Jessie May gives you a great chance of winning £2,000 every week – along with 152 other cash prizes – plus there’s a rollover that can reach as high as £25,000!
Sign up today for your chance to win! Find out how here.
5. Leave a gift in your will
In the UK, 35% of people say they would leave a gift to a charity in their Will, however only about 7% actually do. Leaving a gift in your Will is a chance for you to remember a charity that’s close to your heart. Your support will mean Jessie May can continue helping terminally ill children and their families for the years to come.
Find out how to leave a gift in your will here.
6. Make a donation
Making a donation is one of the most important ways that you can help Jessie May. The donations that you make go directly to supporting our Nurses to provide care and support to our families across the South West.
You can choose to donate now, or make a regular donation via a monthly direct debit. We can claim Gift Aid on all donations, should they be eligible.