Businesses from across East Lancashire were recognised for their exceptional fundraising achievements at the East Lancashire Hospice Corporate Challenge Awards, held on 12 October and proudly sponsored by Nybble.co.uk IT and AV.

The Corporate Challenge, which runs annually from April to September, invites businesses to transform an initial £50 investment into as much funding as possible, for East Lancashire Hospice. Teams compete over six months before coming together at a prestigious awards event at the Hospice, where the highest fundraising business is presented with the Corporate Challenge trophy.

This year’s Challenge once again highlighted the incredible generosity, innovation and commitment of local businesses across East Lancashire, raising an outstanding £51,548 to support the Hospice’s specialist palliative and support services.

For many years, Ram Gupta and the team at Nybble have demonstrated what true community partnership looks like in practice. Their support extends far beyond event sponsorship, helping to drive fundraising, innovation and awareness of the Hospice and its vital work, across East Lancashire.

Speaking at the event, Catherine Haworth from Nybble reflected on the positive impact businesses can have within their communities.

“In business, we spend an enormous amount of time measuring success. We measure turnover, growth, profitability, performance and productivity. But perhaps we should also ask ourselves another question: what difference have we made?

Whether your organisation has raised a few hundred pounds or several thousand, you should be proud of what you’ve achieved. Every business that has taken part has contributed to the future of East Lancashire Hospice, and every contribution matters”.

Leanne Harrison, Interim Director of Income Generation and Marketing at East Lancashire Hospice, added:

“East Lancashire Hospice needs to raise £4.5 million every year to continue providing specialist palliative care and support for patients and their friends and families across Blackburn with Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley.

This year’s Corporate Challenge has raised a staggering £51,548, and we are incredibly proud of every business that has supported the Challenge and helped achieve this remarkable total. Their commitment will make a real difference to East Lancashire Hospice and our patients who are the heart of what we do.”

Nineteen businesses took part in this year’s challenge, with three organisations emerging as the top fundraisers.

Corporate Challenge Winners 2025

The Cardboard Box Company Ltd claimed first place, raising an impressive £7,720. Their total included funds generated through completing the National Three Peaks Challenge.

James Dewhurst Ltd secured second place, raising £7,606.62, with employees taking part in the Yorkshire Three Peaks among a range of fundraising activities.

Multevo finished in third place, raising £7,558.40, supported by a highly successful fundraising bingo night.

The Corporate Challenge continues to demonstrate the power of local businesses working together to support the East Lancashire Hospice. Through creativity, teamwork and determination, participating organisations have helped ensure East Lancashire Hospice can continue providing specialist palliative care and support to patients and their friends and family, across; Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley.

Businesses interested in taking part in next year’s Corporate Challenge are encouraged to contact the fundraising team at fundraising@eastlancshospice.org.uk to find out more and register their interest.

With seven shops already open across Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley, East Lancashire Hospice will open the doors this Saturday, 26 September 2026, to a brand-new books and music shop, located at 29 Moor Lane, Clitheroe, BB1 7BE

The new shop is the Hospice’s eighth retail outlet overall and its third in Clitheroe, joining the Boutique and Kids shop in the town. Created especially for book lovers and music enthusiasts, the shop offers a welcoming space to slow down, browse at your own pace, discover new reads, revisit old favourites and uncover hidden gems generously donated by the local community.

Claire Shilton, Head of Retail at East Lancashire Hospice, said:

“By opening new shops, we can engage with more people in the community, shine a spotlight on the services we offer, and raise the vital funds that help us provide compassionate specialist palliative care and support to those who need it most across Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley.

Our team has worked incredibly hard to create a unique charity bookshop, including vinyls and CDs, and we’re excited to welcome residents of Clitheroe and beyond to this fantastic new venture. Whether you’re searching for your next favourite read, a classic novel or a rare vinyl record, there’s something for everyone.”

Fritha Minehan-Leung, Retail Manager of the Clitheroe Books and Music Shop, added:

“I have been an avid book lover all my life, so this really is my dream job. I love helping book readers and music lovers discover a treasure in our new shop.

Visitors can take their time browsing our fantastic selection of books, vinyls and CDs, and even relax in our dedicated reading area. Every purchase made will help support patients and their friends and families across the region, ensuring East Lancashire Hospice can continue delivering compassionate care when it is needed most.”

The new Clitheroe Books and Music Shop will officially open at 9.30am on Saturday, 26 September 2026. Residents, supporters and visitors are invited to come along, explore the new store and help celebrate the latest addition to the East Lancashire Hospice retail family.

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.  

The East Lancashire Hospice charity shop on Crabtree Street, Blackburn, is celebrating its first anniversary this September, after a successful first year serving the local community.

Since opening in September 2025, the shop has become a popular destination for shoppers looking for great value and quality bargains. The store’s success is thanks to the generosity of local donors and the dedication of shop manager Dionne and her team, and the hardworking volunteers, who help keep the shelves stocked with a selection of quality pre-loved items.

From men’s, ladies’ and children’s clothing to household goods, furniture, toys, games and books, there is something for everyone.

To mark the shop’s first anniversary, customers can enjoy special discounts of 20% off when they spend £20 or over until 30^th September , making it the perfect opportunity to discover some fantastic savings. Complimentary drinks and cake will also be available as staff, volunteers, customers and supporters come together to celebrate this special milestone.

Whether you’re searching for affordable everyday essentials, unique treasures or simply want to support East Lancashire Hospice, you’ll receive a warm welcome. Thanks to the continued generosity of donors, the shop is currently fully stocked with plenty of quality items waiting to find a new home.

Every purchase helps support East Lancashire Hospice while promoting sustainability through reuse and recycling.

Opening Times:

• Monday to Saturday: 9.00am – 5.00pm
• Sunday: 10.00am – 4.00pm

Come along and join the celebrations on Saturday 5th of September and see why so many local shoppers return time and time again.

East Lancashire Hospice Charity Shop
Unit 2, Crabtree Street
Blackburn
BB1 3HD

For more than fifteen years, Elaine Hartley has been a cherished part of East Lancashire Hospice. She first joined as a volunteer after being invited by Sharon Crimble, then Director of Income Generation and Marketing, and quickly became a familiar face at our events.

Elaine spent many years working alongside Laura Isherwood, who coordinated our volunteers. After Laura died, Elaine was encouraged to continue the work Laura had poured so much heart into. She now comes in every week, giving her time, energy and kindness to support our teams and help coordinate volunteers for hospice events.

Outside the Hospice, Elaine is always discovering something new; pickleball, the gym or dry stone walling, but volunteering has always remained one of her greatest joys. “It’s loads of fun, and the people are lovely,” she said. “When you go into the Hospice, it’s like being given a big hug. It’s so warm and friendly. It wraps you up.”

This year, Elaine decided to celebrate a special birthday in a way that truly reflected her adventurous spirit: by organising her own skydive. It was something she’d wanted to do for a while, and marking her birthday felt like the perfect moment to finally tick it off her bucket list while raising money for a cause she cares deeply about.

“I don’t like heights, but I think everyone should do it,” she laughed. “I was absolutely fine and excited coming up to it, but I was a little nervous when I sat down and dangled my legs out of the plane.”

From 15,000 feet, Elaine took the leap and raised an incredible £780 in support of hospice care. She was met on the ground by her family, including her grandson Jacob, who had doubted she’d actually go through with it. “He was the first one I hugged,” she said. “I told him, ‘You know I’ve always been crazy,’ and he was very proud.”

Elaine began volunteering at East Lancashire Hospice because she simply wanted to help. “It’s such an amazing cause,” she said. “It’s a shame hospices don’t get more government funding. I’m so passionate about it.”

She also wants to thank everyone who donated, including those who gave anonymously. “I can’t thank them personally, but I’m so grateful,” she said. 

Elaine is a strong advocate for Gift Aid, which helped increase her final fundraising total. Gift Aid is a government scheme that allows charities to claim an extra 25% on donations made by UK taxpayers, at no extra cost to the donor. It means that for every £10 someone gives, the Hospice can receive £12.50, simply because the donor has confirmed they pay tax and are happy for the charity to reclaim it. It’s one of the easiest ways to make a donation go further, and many people don’t realise how much difference it makes. As Elaine said, “It’s fantastic and so worthwhile; more people should know about it!”

Elaine hopes her skydive inspires others to get involved, whether through our events, fundraising challenges or simply by showing up. “There’s so much help available for our community here, whether at the Hospice or through Hospice at Home,” she said. “Our events like Sunflower Memories or the Starlight Walk are so well organised and well attended. They’re a great way to support the Hospice, and there’s something for everyone.”

If you’d like to support the Hospice, take on a challenge of your own, or join one of our upcoming events, you can explore ways to get involved here: https://eastlancshospice.org.uk/support-us/

East Lancashire Hospice has appointed Interim Chief Executive Officer Nicola Hanna as its permanent CEO.

Nicola takes on the role at an important time for the Hospice as it continues to provide specialist palliative care and support to patients, their friends and families across Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley. Supporting people with life-limiting illnesses, the Hospice delivers a wide range of services including inpatient care, community support, wellbeing services and bereavement support, helping local people and those closest to them during some of life’s most difficult times.

Graham Parr, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, said:

“We are delighted that Nicola has accepted the role of CEO. Nicola has done a great job as Interim CEO, and the team at the Hospice are now looking forward to her continuing in the permanent role. Her focus will now be to provide stability, continuity and support, ensuring we remain true to our mission whilst continuing to deliver the specialist palliative care and support our community relies on.

“As demand for hospice services continues to grow, Nicola’s leadership will be vital in helping the Hospice navigate future challenges, strengthen partnerships and ensure we remain financially sustainable while meeting the evolving needs of our community.”

Nicola said:

“I am delighted to accept the role of CEO at East Lancashire Hospice. I continue to be amazed by the compassion, dedication and skill shown every day by our staff, volunteers and supporters.

“East Lancashire Hospice has been at the heart of our community for more than 40 years, providing exceptional palliative care and support to thousands of local people and their friends and families. I am incredibly proud to lead an organisation with such a strong reputation, dedicated workforce and loyal community of supporters.”

“Like many charities and healthcare providers, we face challenges including rising costs, increasing demand for services and ensuring sustainable funding for the future. However, I am confident that by working together with our teams, trustees, volunteers, donors, partners and the wider community, we can continue to develop our services and reach even more people who need our support.”

“We are thankful for the trust, support and partnership of our community. Together, we continue to make a meaningful difference to patients, their friends and families across Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley.”

East Lancashire Hospice must raise most of its annual running costs through fundraising, donations and retail income, making the continued support of the local community essential to sustaining its specialist services for future generations.

At East Lancashire Hospice, we are committed to educating healthcare professionals about end-of-life care across our community.

Following recent engagement with nursing and residential homes across Blackburn and Darwen, we have identified a growing need for additional support and training, for staff caring for residents with complex health needs.

By sharing the expertise of our Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS) team, we hope to strengthen confidence and knowledge across care settings, helping more people to receive the right care at the right time, through bespoke training sessions focusing on key areas such as; ‘Recognition of Dying’, ‘Symptom Management for Registered Nurses’, and ‘Care in the Last Days of Life.’

As care needs become more complex, staff in these settings have seen an increase in supporting patients who require palliative and end-of-life care, often in situations that can change quickly.

Without specialist training, recognising when someone may be approaching the end of their life can be difficult. This can lead to uncertainty when making clinical decisions or responding to symptoms.

We recognise that nursing home staff work incredibly hard and face significant pressures in their day-to-day roles. These pressures, combined with a gap in specialist knowledge, can result in patients and their friends and families experiencing inequality in the care available to them.

Supporting staff with the right knowledge and guidance can help ensure residents receive compassionate and informed care that they deserve. 

Ultimately, this initiative reflects East Lancashire Hospice’s wider strategy; ensuring everyone receives the care and dignity that a hospice provides. 

Jenna Hudson is a Staff Nurse on our Inpatient Unit, and although she officially joined the team last August, her connection to East Lancashire Hospice goes back much further.

Almost ten years ago, Jenna volunteered with us, long before she began her nursing career. It was here that she discovered her passion for end‑of‑life care. When her grandad later received care in our Inpatient Unit, it strengthened her belief that this was where she wanted to be. She went away to train, qualify as a nurse, and always knew she would return one day.

“It’s a privilege to work here. Supporting patients, their friends and families at such a difficult time is humbling. Patients stay with you forever, and every moment matters,” says Jenna.

One of Jenna’s favourite things about working at the Hospice is the team around her. She describes her colleagues as supportive, uplifting and always there for one another; a team of people who give her the strength and encouragement to give her best to every patient, friend and family member she supports.

Even now, she still has moments where she can’t quite believe she gets to work at East Lancashire Hospice. She jokes about her “imposter syndrome” and occasional “pinch‑me moments”, but beneath the humour is a genuine sense of gratitude. From the very first day she volunteered almost a decade ago, she knew this was where she belonged. She talked about the Hospice constantly, told anyone who would listen how much she loved it, and even based her assignments and dissertations on end‑of‑life care. Her passion has always been here, and it shows in everything she does.

That deep connection is exactly what has inspired her to take on one of the most daring events on our fundraising calendar, the Wing Walk, despite not being a natural thrill seeker!

Jenna’s Wing Walk journey began as a light‑hearted conversation in the staff room. A colleague mentioned upcoming fundraising events, someone suggested the Three Peaks Challenge, and Jenna quickly replied, “Absolutely not… I’d rather jump out of a plane!” 

Within minutes, her colleagues had taken her at her word, and before she knew it, she was signed up for a Wing Walk. She says she’s been inspired by the drive and passion of our Events Fundraiser, Lia, whose enthusiasm gave her the confidence to take on something so far outside her comfort zone.

The Wing Walk is a unique challenge where participants are safely secured to the top of a small, vintage aircraft as it takes off and soars through the skies. It’s certainly not something Jenna ever imagined doing, but she is determined to give back to the Hospice that means so much to her.

Jenna’s fundraising goal is to purchase Bluetooth speakers for every patient room, allowing families to play music that brings comfort, sparks memories and creates meaningful moments together. Through her work, she has seen first-hand the power of music and how a favourite song can calm, soothe and provide connection when words are difficult to find.

To help reach her target, Jenna has been busy exploring new fundraising ideas. The support she has received from friends, family, colleagues and her local community has been incredible.

Posters are displayed in her local pub, The Olive in Darwen, her hairdresser has a collection bucket in place, and friends are organising bake sales to support her efforts. Even families of patients have kindly donated to her fundraising page.

One particularly special gesture came from Elliott, the young son of one of her colleagues, who was so inspired by Jenna’s challenge that he painted her a picture for encouragement – something she says she will treasure forever.

Becoming a Gold Ambassador in support of East Lancashire Hospice, was a natural step for leading IT solutions provider, Nybble.

Catherine Haworth, Chief Financial Officer at Nybble stated, “We are a leading provider of managed IT services, audio-visual solutions, cybersecurity, cloud solutions, AI and communications, supporting organisations across the UK. Supporting East Lancashire Hospice is not only rewarding, but it also brings people together, both within our business and across the wider community. While technology sits at the heart of our business, our people’s first approach and commitment to making a positive difference extend far beyond the services we provide, becoming a Gold Ambassador allows Nybble to play a small part in helping East Lancashire Hospice continue delivering its invaluable services to local families when they need them most”.

Leanne Harrison, Interim Director of Income Generation and Marketing at East Lancashire Hospice, added “East Lancashire Hospice rely heavily on the generosity of local businesses, supporters and volunteers to continue providing the vital services across Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley region. Through initiatives such as the Ambassador Programme and the Corporate Challenge, businesses can play a meaningful role in ensuring patients, their friends and families continue to receive the care and support they need when it matters most” 

“For us at Nybble, success is not only measured by business growth, but also by the positive impact we have on the people around us. The work carried out by East Lancashire Hospice goes far beyond medical care. The team provides comfort, dignity, emotional support and reassurance to patients and families across the region, at a time when it matters most. We are really proud to help raise much-needed funds, and we would encourage other businesses to get involved and help with the fantastic work they do.” added Ram Gupta, Managing Director of Nybble.

If you’re interested in supporting the Hospice and becoming a Corporate Ambassador, you can learn more on our corporate page or speak to our Corporate Fundraiser, Marisa Bannan at marisa.bannan@eastlancshospice.org.uk.

After four years in post, Chief Executive Officer, Hilary Barrett, has stepped down from her role at East Lancashire Hospice. During her time as CEO, Hilary has led a period of significant progress and transformation for the Hospice, helping to build strong foundations for the future.  

Nicola Hanna, former Director of Income Generation and Marketing, has assumed the position of Interim Chief Executive Officer. During this time, Leanne Harrison, Head of Fundraising, will step into the role of Interim Director of Income Generation and Marketing, providing support to Nicola while the recruitment process is underway.  

Nicola says, “Although I am new to this role, I have been leading Income Generation and Marketing at the Hospice for the past three years and I have never stopped being amazed by the compassion, dedication, and skill shown every day by our staff, volunteers, and supporters”.  

She continues, “Hospice care stands at a unique and vital point in our communities supporting people and their families through some of life’s most challenging moments, with dignity, kindness, and respect. That commitment is evident in everything I see every day, from the quality of clinical care to the warmth of each personal interaction. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our teams and volunteers, whose tireless efforts make such a difference to those we serve. I am equally grateful to our donors, partners, and the wider community — your continued support ensures that we can maintain and develop the services so many people rely on. As Interim CEO, my focus is to provide stability, continuity, and support to our organisation, whilst ensuring we remain true to our values and mission.                                                            

East Lancashire Hospice remains fully focused on delivering specialist palliative care and support to the people of Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley. The Hospice is grateful for the continued trust, commitment, and support of its partners and stakeholders during this period of transition. 

Meet Anne, who recently joined our volunteer team, and works at our new charity shop in Accrington. 

As a Retail Volunteer, Anne’s role is to support the Shop Manager, serve customers on the till, replenish stock, tag and hang new items, steam clothing, sort through donations, and help to keep the shop running. 

Anne has only volunteered for a short time, but has already made a huge difference. She has quickly settled in, bringing energy, enthusiasm, and a big heart to her role.

Anne has always wanted to volunteer, and when she saw the new retail role advertised in November, she didn’t hesitate to apply. 

Her connection to East Lancashire Hospice is deeply personal. “My dad was cared for by the Hospice 10 years ago, and I still remember the care he received. The support me and my brother were given at the time was second to none,” Anne recalls. “I wanted to give back.”

Anne has loved meeting customers and getting to know the team. “The staff are all really nice, and it’s great working alongside other volunteers. It’s also exciting to see all the stock that arrives in; the donations are fantastic!” Volunteering has already given Anne a strong sense of purpose and personal satisfaction. “I’m really enjoying it, and it feels great to make a difference,” she added.

When asked what she’d say to anyone considering volunteering, Anne doesn’t hesitate, “I would highly recommend it. Get your application in and come join in on the fun!”

Join our amazing team of volunteers here: Volunteer Vacancies

East Lancashire Hospice is proud to partner with the Lancashire Telegraph as a Bronze Ambassador and an official Media Partner, strengthening our long‑standing partnership rooted in shared values, community commitment and a belief in the power of local storytelling.

Our Ambassador Programme brings local businesses together to champion our work, raise awareness and help us continue providing specialist palliative care and support to the people of Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley. 

The Lancashire Telegraph have been working for the East Lancashire community since 1886, with the main purpose of providing trusted, local journalism that helps people understand what is happening around them, and why it matters. 

Richard Duggan, Regional Editor North West at the Lancashire Telegraph, shared that they are guided by clear, people-centered values:

“We put the community at the heart of our reporting. We hold power to account with fairness and accuracy, we give a voice to people and organisations that might not otherwise be heard, to use our platform to make a positive difference locally.”

For the Hospice, this partnership means far more than increased visibility. It helps us reach people who may not otherwise know about our services. It also strengthens our ability to educate the public about hospice care, challenge misconceptions, and share patient and family stories with sensitivity and accuracy. Crucially, it helps us connect with new supporters, engage the community around key campaigns, and ensure that when patients, their friends, and families need us, they understand who we are and how we can help.

When asked why the Lancashire Telegraph chose to become a Media Partner and what inspired them, their answer is rooted in what they see every day.

“East Lancashire Hospice is there for our community at the most difficult times of their lives. As a local news organisation, we see first-hand how important its care and support is across Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley.”

“Becoming a Media Partner felt like a natural step. It allows us to further use our platform to raise awareness of the Hospice’s work, support its fundraising efforts, and help ensure people understand the services available to them.”

Local media plays a role that no national outlet can replicate. It understands the people, the places and the pressures that shape East Lancashire. Closeness to the community is exactly what makes the Lancashire Telegraph such an important partner for the Hospice.

Published for Mental Health Awareness Week 2026

This Mental Health Awareness Week, we spoke with Lisa, our Head of People & Culture, and Mike, our Wellbeing Coordinator and Volunteer, who work together to champion wellbeing across the organisation.

Their shared insights highlight why wellbeing matters so deeply in a hospice setting, and how we ensure our teams feel supported, valued, and cared for every day.

Talking about death and dying is not an easy subject. It can feel heavy, uncomfortable, and sometimes overwhelming to even think about, let alone talk about.

But avoiding the conversation doesn’t make it easier. In fact, it can make things harder.

At East Lancashire Hospice, we believe in being open, honest and straightforward. That means we talk about death using clear language. We say ‘died’ and ‘death’, because these words matter. They help us understand what’s happening, and they give us a shared language when we need it most.

We were delighted to welcome Euroslit as one of our Bronze Ambassadors this week, presenting them with their plaque in recognition of their support for East Lancashire Hospice.

Our Ambassador Programme celebrates the organisations who stand alongside us, helping to raise awareness and support the work we do for patients, and their friends and families across Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley.

For Euroslit, becoming a Bronze Ambassador was a natural step:

“Becoming a Bronze Ambassador for East Lancashire Hospice was a natural decision for us. After visiting the hospice, we were deeply moved by the compassion, dignity, and support provided to patients and their families during some of life’s most difficult moments.

“Their work strongly reflects our values of justice, excellence, and care for those around us, and we feel a real sense of responsibility to support an organisation that plays such a vital role in our community. We are proud to help ensure these essential services remain available to the people of East Lancashire.” shared Irfan

Irfan shared what the Hospice means to Euroslit as an organisation:

“At Euroslit, we see the Hospice as a truly special organisation, made up of dedicated people who provide compassionate, dignified care at one of life’s most difficult moments. Their work ensures that individuals can spend their final days with comfort and respect, while also supporting families through an incredibly emotional time.

“We believe the Hospice represents a vital safety net for the community, giving people reassurance that, whatever their circumstances, there is always support available when it is needed most. Supporting our local hospice is our way of giving back, helping to ensure that no one faces that journey without the care, compassion, and excellence they deserve.

“Euroslit is a family-owned business based in Blackburn, providing specialist slitting and rewinding services for polymer and paper-based flexible films for over 25 years. We support a wide range of industries, including automotive, medical devices, and consumer goods.

“Our work is guided by three core values; justice, excellence, and care for those around us. These principles shape how we operate as a business – treating people fairly, striving for the highest standards, and supporting our colleagues, customers, and wider community.

“We see these values as the foundation upon which we continue to build our business, enabling us to play a positive role in creating a stronger, more supportive community for everyone.” Irfan continued.

Supporting local causes is central to their approach:

“At Euroslit Blackburn Ltd, “care for those around us” is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to making a lasting, positive impact on our local community, the environment, and the people of Blackburn and Lancashire.

“Supporting our community is not just a responsibility, but a core value that guides our decisions. We actively contribute to local charities, initiatives, and businesses, ensuring that our success is shared with those around us. By fostering strong relationships and investing in the wellbeing of our people, we aim to help create opportunities, strengthen the local economy, and support those in need.

“We believe the most meaningful way to live this value is by giving close to home; supporting our family members, our neighbours, our employees & colleagues, and empowering talented individuals and organisations within our community who also want to make a real positive difference.”

They also shared a message for other businesses considering getting involved:

“I would encourage other businesses to simply take the step and get involved. While running a business comes with its own challenges, there are always meaningful ways to support the Hospice; whether through donations, raising awareness, or offering time to volunteer.

“What may feel like a small gesture can have a lasting impact. Together, these contributions help ensure the Hospice can continue its vital work, providing care, dignity, and comfort when it is needed most.”

We’re incredibly grateful to Euroslit for their support and are proud to have them as part of our Ambassador community.

If you are interested in becoming an Ambassador for the Hospice, please get in touch with us on fundraising@eastlancshospice.co.uk.

East Lancashire Hospice is proud to announce that this year’s Ramadan Appeal has raised over £15,000 for the charity, bringing the total raised since the appeal began in 2015, to over £110,000.

The Hospice, which provides specialist palliative care and support to the people of Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley, would like to thank the local community for their continued generosity and support during Ramadan. 

A special thank you has been extended to long-term supporter and volunteer, Suleman Khonat, who has dedicated 12 years to the Hospice and plays a key role in organising the Ramadan Appeal.

Suleman shared, “Through helping to collect donations, I have seen first-hand the difference this support makes. The Hospice provides comfort, dignity, and compassionate care to people in their final days, while also supporting their friends and families during incredibly difficult times. There is a real sense of reassurance in knowing such a caring place exists, where people are treated with kindness and respect at the end of life.

“I would like to thank our local community for their generosity in helping to raise funds. Your support truly makes a difference. In particular, I would like to thank the local mosques for their valued contributions and ongoing support. Every donation helps ensure the Hospice can continue providing its essential services, and I encourage everyone to support the charity in any way they can.”

The Hospice also extended its thanks to the many local mosques that supported the appeal through donations and awareness, helping to make this year’s campaign such a success.

During Ramadan, East Lancashire Hospice also hosted its annual Iftar event, bringing members of the community together, to break fast in a warm and welcoming environment; further strengthening the bonds between the Hospice and the local community.

East Lancashire Hospice relies heavily on the generosity of the public to continue delivering its vital services. The success of the Ramadan Appeal highlights the power of community spirit in supporting those with life-limiting illnesses and their friends and families.

East Lancashire Hospice is excited to announce the grand opening of its new charity shop, based in Accrington.

Located on Hyndburn Road, the new shop is located next door to Costa Coffee, and is just down the road from Matalan. Open seven days a week, this new store will be a convenient destination for shoppers looking to support their local hospice while picking up great value pre-loved items.

The shop will officially open its doors on Friday, 27th March at 9:30am, offering a wide range of quality men’s and women’s clothing, children’s wear, small items of furniture, bric-a-brac, household goods, and books.

Building a Stronger Community Presence in Accrington

This exciting new addition to Accrington will help to raise funds to support East Lancashire Hospice, helping to care for the people of Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley. The shop marks an important step in building a stronger community presence in Accrington, and members of the public are encouraged to support the new shop.

The Hospice is currently appealing for donations of stock and volunteers to help run the shop, with flexible hours available. You can apply to volunteer in the shop, or on our Volunteer Vacancies page.

A Message from our Head of Retail

Claire Shilton, Head of Retail at East Lancashire Hospice, shared;

“We are so excited to open the doors to our new Accrington shop and can’t wait to welcome the local community inside. This is an important step in building a strong retail presence here in Accrington, and we’re looking forward to meeting new volunteers, supporters, and customers who will help make this store a real success.”

The East Lancashire Hospice charity shop in Great Harwood is set to unveil a brand-new look this December, marking an exciting new chapter for the charity shop.

After many years on the high street, the shop is evolving its offer. With growing competition from other charity retailers, East Lancashire Hospice is taking bold steps to differentiate its presence, securing the future of the shop. As the shop plays a vital role in funding hospice care, ensuring its long-term sustainability is essential.

To prepare for the refurbishment, the Great Harwood shop will become an outlet store for the month of November, with all clothing priced at just £1. The clearance is an opportunity for the community to support the Hospice while picking up incredible bargains, perfect timing for winter wardrobes and early Christmas preparations.

The shop will close for refurbishment on 3rd December and will reopen on Friday, 19th December, relaunching as East Lancashire Hospice Kids, a dedicated children’s charity shop; offering pre-loved clothes, toys, books, and accessories for families across the area.

Great Harwood is home to many young families, with 25% of households having dependent children, making the new shop a perfect fit for the community.

This transformation follows the success of the Hospice’s Kids shop in Clitheroe, which, since opening over a year ago, has:

• Sold 18,818 items of children’s clothing
• Saved 34,465 items from landfill
• Found new homes for 8,660 toys
• Sold 4,801 children’s books
• Saved an estimated 112,000 kg of carbon emissions through the sale of pre-loved goods

The Hospice hopes to replicate this positive impact in Great Harwood.

The refurbishment has been generously funded by The Senator Group, who have donated all materials and labour, free of charge, to help keep the Great Harwood shop thriving on the high street.

The Hospice is inviting the community to come along on Friday, 19th December, as it officially launches the new children’s shop. The first 50 shoppers will walk away with a complimentary gift bag.

Claire Shilton, Head of Retail, at East Lancashire Hospice, shared, “I am incredibly excited about the transformation of this shop into a vibrant and playful space! We can’t wait for all the parents of Great Harwood and their little ones to explore this new venture, whether that’s trying out our toys or finding their new fashion statement.”

East Lancashire Hospice relies on its retail income, so ensuring the charity shops remain successful is essential in helping the Hospice continue delivering specialist care across Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley.

East Lancashire Hospice has launched a new appeal, ‘A Christmas to Remember’, raising awareness of the care provided to the community by the Hospice over the festive season.

At East Lancashire Hospice, Christmas is about love, togetherness, and comfort. However, for some families the Hospice cares for, this Christmas may be their last, and the charity is dedicated to ensuring it’s filled with cherished moments that will last forever.

Each year, East Lancashire Hospice must raise more than £4.5 million to continue providing expert, compassionate care free of charge to people living with life-limiting illnesses across Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley. During November and December last year, the Hospice cared for 483 patients.

The Hospice team believes that everyone deserves dignified, personalised care, surrounded by the people they love, especially at Christmas. Whether supporting patients at home or within the Hospice itself, the team works tirelessly to bring the festive spirit to life. This includes preparing traditional turkey dinners, giving thoughtful gifts, pulling crackers, or simply creating opportunities for families to enjoy precious quiet moments together.

Recognising that Christmas can also be a difficult time for those who have experienced the death of a loved one, the Hospice’s Bereavement Support Team provides tailored support to ensure no one has to face the festive period alone. Their work helps individuals and families manage their grief, reflect, and find comfort during a challenging period.

This year, East Lancashire Hospice is asking the community to make a donation to ensure that patients and their friends and families have ‘A Christmas to Remember.’

To find out more about this appeal, to make a donation, or to support East Lancashire Hospice, please visit: christmas.eastlancshospice.org.uk

The East Lancashire Hospice 2025 Corporate Challenge has come to an end, and they have crowned their worthy winners!

Over the past 6 months, 27 Lancashire-based businesses have come together to compete in this year’s awards, in aid of East Lancashire Hospice. Together, they’ve raised an incredible £48,918.13 to support patient care.

East Lancashire Hospice is proud to announce Amplify Success as its winners, who raised an amazing £6,197. The recruitment and retention company’s achievement was led by Senior People Consultant, Carolann Thompson, who completed an 800-mile sponsored walking challenge. She also teamed up with One Financial Services to host a range of community fundraising events.

Carolann’s motivation was deeply personal, inspired by family members who have accessed Hospice services and her business partner’s recent cancer diagnosis.

In second place, James Dewhurst Ltd, a local textile company, raised £5,000 through a range of creative fundraisers. Their finance team took on a sponsored run, hosted raffles in collaboration with suppliers, and Finance Assistant, Stephanie Isherwood bravely completed a mile cold-water swim in Lake Windermere. Stephanie has seen firsthand the impact of the services provided by East Lancashire Hospice when her father, Peter, received hospice care.

Taking third place, The Cardboard Box Company raised an impressive £4,515. The team are long-time supporters of the Hospice, and this year’s Corporate Challenge held extra meaning for their team, following the sudden death of their colleague Steven Latham, a passionate hospice advocate who championed their fundraising each year.

If you’re feeling inspired by our incredible challengers, why not sign up your business for the 2026 Corporate Challenge, starting in April? Visit: eastlancshospice.org.uk/corporate-challenge-2026 or contact our Corporate Fundraiser, Marisa Bannan, to learn more about how your company can get involved.

Blackburn MP, Mr Adnan Hussain, visited East Lancashire Hospice’s newest charity shop in celebration of Hospice Care Week. The annual campaign, facilitated by Hospice UK, celebrates the work of hospices across the UK and raises awareness of the specialist palliative and end-of-life care they provide.

This year’s campaign highlighted services that often go unseen by the public, such as Counselling, Bereavement Support, Complementary Therapy, and Bathing services. All of which are central to the holistic care that hospices provide for both patients and their friends and families.

“We were delighted to welcome our local MP to our new charity shop, located on Crabtree Street in Blackburn. It meant a lot to the staff at East Lancashire Hospice that he visited during Hospice Care Week. He showed a great interest in the services we provide, and we were able to highlight the importance of hospice care in our community and give him a tour of our new shop, which will raise vital funds for the Hospice.” shared Nicola Hanna, Director of Income Generation and Marketing at East Lancashire Hospice.

The Blackburn charity shop, is the latest addition to East Lancashire Hospice’s retail portfolio and provides an important income stream for the charity. The shop offers a wide selection of clothing and accessories for men, women, and children, as well as a range of small furniture pieces. Shoppers can also browse a range of books, toys, vinyl records, CDs, and homeware.

Located just around the corner from Tesco, the Blackburn shop will be open six days a week, making it an ideal stop while doing the weekly shop. It also reconnects with Blackburn’s history, as the town was home to the very first East Lancashire Hospice charity shop many years ago.

If you’d like to find out more about the services provided by East Lancashire Hospice, or details on their charity shops, please visit www.eastlancshospice.org.uk

East Lancashire Hospice is getting ready to celebrate the first birthday of its Clitheroe KIDS charity shop, located in the heart of the Ribble Valley. Since opening the doors in August 2024, the shop has quickly become a monumental part of Clitheroe’s busy high street.

The Hospice is inviting the local community to join in the celebrations on Friday, 8th August, from 9:30am to 4:00pm.

To mark the special occasion, the Clitheroe KIDS charity shop, located on Castle Street, will be decorated with balloons; with volunteers welcoming visitors in fancy dress. The first 50 customers to make a purchase will receive a goodie bag, as a thank you for their continued support.

Over the past 12 months, the Clitheroe KIDS charity shop has made a significant impact. Not only has the local community benefited from the shop, but it has also raised a significant amount to support Hospice care at East Lancashire Hospice.

In the past year, the charity shop has:

• Sold 12,854 items of children’s clothing
• Saved 25,355 items from landfill
• Given 6,208 toys new homes
• Sold 3,199 children’s books

An estimated 77,000kg of carbon emissions were saved by shoppers purchasing preloved items from the charity shop over new goods.

East Lancashire Hospice’s Clitheroe KIDS Shop Manager, Ann Mason, reflected on the success of the shop’s first year in business;

“It’s been a brilliant 12 months. The support from the Clitheroe community has been amazing. However, the real highlight, for me personally, has been working alongside my volunteer team, who have helped to make this first year in business such a success.”

Claire Shilton, Head of Retail at East Lancashire Hospice, shared:

“We’re incredibly proud to have opened a dedicated children’s charity shop in Lancashire, and to see it thrive in its first year is a fantastic achievement. We’re hugely grateful to the community for the generous donations that have filled our shelves and helped raise vital funds for hospice care.”

The charity shop, which specialises in affordable preloved children’s items, is staffed by a dedicated team of volunteers. Their hard work and commitment have been central to the shop’s success, and East Lancashire Hospice thanks each of them for their hard work and dedication.

As the shop enters its second year in business, the team is excited to build on this momentum, continuing to raise funds to support East Lancashire Hospice’s essential care services across Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley.

Join the celebration, which starts on Friday, 8th August and continues into the weekend in conjunction with the Clitheroe Food Festival.

For more information regarding the Clitheroe KIDS charity shop or to learn more about volunteering opportunities, please visit: https://eastlancshospice.org.uk/volunteer

Visit the shop: East Lancashire Hospice, KIDS, 10 Castle Street, Clitheroe, BB7 2BX

East Lancashire Hospice has launched a new initiative, giving local businesses an opportunity to show their support for the Hospice by becoming an Ambassador. Marisa Bannan, Corporate Fundraiser at East Lancashire Hospice, shared;

“We work with a variety of local businesses, many of which support the Hospice within our community. We wanted to launch this scheme to allow those businesses to deepen their connection to East Lancashire Hospice and represent our charity on a more formal basis.”

Leanne Green, Head of Fundraising at East Lancashire Hospice, commented:

“It’s likely every patient, family member or Hospice visitor will pass the Ambassador Wall at some point during their visit. Located at the centre of the Hospice, the wall showcases the unwavering and ongoing support we receive from our Ambassadors, and we’re proud to spotlight the great work that they do.”

Local creative marketing and branding agency, Media Village, decided to become the Hospice’s first official Ambassador, and even helped with designing and installing the Ambassador Wall free of charge. Managing Director, Michael Lambert, commented;

“East Lancashire Hospice symbolises excellence in holistic care and community service. Working in support of the Hospice feels like a natural extension of who we are and what we stand for. Supporting Hospice care locally is important because every person deserves dignity, comfort, and compassion at the end of life; close to home and surrounded by community.”

PM+M, an independent, leading firm of accountants and advisers, was the second company to become a Hospice Ambassador. Their ‘Positive Impact Initiative’ provides local charities with donations, sponsorship and volunteering as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy. As a predominantly Blackburn-based business, PM+M felt it was important to support East Lancashire Hospice.

Julie Walsh, Tax Manager at PM+M, shared, “East Lancashire Hospice needs support. Hospices only receive 25% of their funding from the government, relying on fundraising and the support of the local community to raise the remaining 75%. So, whether you donate or volunteer, it will all make a difference.”

East Lancashire Hospice is looking for its next Ambassadors and encourages local businesses to consider this new initiative.

If you’d like to find out more about the Corporate opportunities available at East Lancashire Hospice, and how you can make a difference, contact Marisa Bannan. marisa.bannan@eastlancshospice.org.uk