'Please continue to support us' says Barnsley Hospice

Barnsley Hospice is encouraging people in the community to do a sponsored challenge to raise money during the lockdown.

Supporters are being urged to set a personal challenge to support the hospice such as a socially-distanced walk, run or cycle.

It comes as from 13 May, new Government rules come into effect which allow people to exercise outdoors as often as they wish, whilst adhering to the two metre social distancing guidelines.

Barnsley Hospice has seen its income drop after cancelling most of its events due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The hospice charity shops also remain closed to the public.

Sam Silverwood, fundraising manager said: “We rely heavily on the generosity of the local community and have been touched by the amazing support we have received so far.

“As we move into a new phase of the pandemic, please continue to support us with your fundraising and donations to help get us through this difficult time. The pandemic hasn’t stopped people dying due to other illnesses like cancer, heart disease and motor neurone disease.”

She continued: “As many of us stay at home, but are now able to get outdoors more, we’re asking you to dream up your own challenge to support the hospice. It could be a mini-marathon, bike ride or walk in your local area, or even keepy uppies in your garden. Or if you’d prefer to do something creative, a sponsored knit-a-thon, painting challenge or virtual quiz.
“There are so many ways you can support the hospice while raising money to help continue our care. Any donations, however large or small, are gratefully received by everyone at the hospice.”

Barnsley Hospice needs to raise over £2m each year to fund patient care and support for families. A further £1.6m is provided by the NHS Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).