East Lancashire Hospice is supporting the national ‘This is Hospice Care’ campaign to highlight the vital role of hospice and palliative care services, while drawing attention to the significant financial challenges faced by hospices across the UK.
Organised by Hospice UK, the campaign uses powerful personal stories to raise awareness of the impact hospices have on individuals, families and communities, while highlighting the need for sustainable funding.
During 2025/26, hospices across the UK cared for more than 300,000 people. Locally, East Lancashire Hospice must raise more than £4.5 million every year to continue providing specialist care and support across Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley.
Barney Shaw, Legacy and Engagement Officer at East Lancashire Hospice, said:
“Being part of the ‘This is Hospice Care’ campaign gives us a powerful opportunity to show just how transformative hospice care can be for local families.
“Gifts in Wills play a truly vital role in making this possible. They help protect our future and ensure that the Hospice will always be here for those who need us, now and for generations to come.
Leaving a gift in your Will, is an incredible act of kindness that has a lasting impact to continue to support the people of Blackburn Darwen Hyndburn and Ribble Valley.”
Gifts in Wills are a crucial source of income for hospices, with one in ten patients receiving care thanks to legacy donations. The campaign features stories from patients, families, staff and supporters, illustrating the comfort, dignity and specialist support that East Lancashire Hospice and hospices provide.
Long-time supporter of East Lancashire Hospice, Sara Knagg-Whitley, explained why she has chosen to leave a gift in her Will and why she remains committed to supporting the Hospice’s future.
She said: ”Seeing first-hand the difference the Hospice means to people and families at the most difficult times in their lives inspired me to leave a gift in my Will. Your local hospice isn’t just about end-of-life care. It’s about dignity, compassion, reassurance and support, when it matters most.
“Leaving a gift in my Will feels like a way of saying, ‘This matters’ – not just now, but for future generations who will need the same care and comfort. Leaving just 1% of your estate can make a meaningful contribution, whilst still leaving support for your friends and families”.
Anyone wishing to learn more about leaving a gift in their Will to East Lancashire Hospice can contact Barney Shaw on 01254 965836 or email barney.shaw@eastlancshospice.org.uk.
