East Cheshire Hospice is predicting a big financial loss because of Covid-19.
The Hospice has been unable to hold a mass-participation fundraising event for over a year and has been forced to make redundancies.
Chief Executive Karyn Johnston said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the support from the community who’ve been incredibly generous.
“Like us, they were fearful and distracted by everything else in their own lives but they still took time out to support us and donate online, or do a fundraiser.
“Knowing that people are rooting for you like that kept us going and was the embodiment of the wind beneath our wings.
“Along with that extra goodwill, we had support from the government but we’ve been told that finishes on March 31 so we’re expecting a shortfall of almost £1m next year and have had to make some roles redundant.
“It’s a significant challenge to keep all our services going. It’s not like our service isn’t needed or we can cut back, because every single thing we do is around support for people facing incurable diseases.
“We’ve allowed visitors throughout the pandemic in a controlled and measured way and have done all we possibly can to make sure people are with loved ones right until the end.
“The PPE has been a physical barrier between the warmth, kindness and physical touch of someone who really cares for you.
“Our new Hospice @Home day time team started in April and that was absolutely needed.”
Staff members Jill Harding (left) and Tess Cleaver with the Hospice @Home car.
Hospice Chief Executive Karyn Johnston (left) and Assistant Nurse Practitioner Clare Preston welcome PPE from China in April.
