Hospice doorstep appeal launched

The purpose of the campaign is to encourage local people to make a donation towards the 2.2 million required this year to continue with hospice services in the southern board area.

Statistics show that more than 9,000 people each year are diagnosed with some form of cancer. Southern Area Hospice relies on the generosity of local people to support the people in our community living with cancer or terminal illness and their families.

Since the 2009 campaign there have been many service developments at the hospice. These include the opening of the Donaldson Centre at the hospice in Newry to provide counselling and therapy services, a new daycare facility at the South Tyrone Hospital and bereavement support groups in Banbridge and Dungannon.

Developments from a personnel perspective include the appointment of a Specialist Palliative Care nurse to join the specialist palliative care team at Daisy Hill Hospital and a Homecare nurse working in the community in the Armagh and Dungannon area.

Carmel Campbell, Nursing Director Southern Area Hospice said, “We would like to thank all of the people who continue to generously support the work of Southern Area Hospice despite the difficult economic climate. Without your help we could not provide a high standard of care and support to so many families in our area who are faced with dealing with the difficulties of illness.

“These envelopes have been sent out to 122,000 households across the Southern Board area. While we know most peoples finances are increasingly strained we would simply ask you not to ignore it. Any donation you are able to give at this time would be greatly appreciated.”

Southern Area Hospice provides in patient, hospital, community, daycare and outpatient facilities for people with cancer, Multiple Sclerosis, Motor Neurone Disease and terminal illness in Newry and Mourne, Banbridge, Dungannon, Armagh, Craigavon and south Tyrone. Envelopes will be sent to 122,000 homes in these areas starting on April 19. If you don’t receive an envelope and would like to support Southern Area Hospice please call 028 30251333.