Volunteers at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice in Oldham have saved the charity more than £548,000, highlighting the critical funding gap faced by the hospice. This saving, derived from the hours given by volunteers in various roles, underscores the essential part they play in maintaining services for patients with life-limiting illnesses. As the hospice prepares for National Volunteers’ Week from June 1 to 7, it is emphasizing the need for continued community support to bridge the funding gap and ensure its services remain available.

For Erin Bennett, the hospice holds a special significance. Her mother, Hazel Reed, was cared for at Dr Kershaw’s in 2018, and Erin recalls how the staff and volunteers created a supportive environment that allowed the family to spend precious time together. That experience has inspired Erin to become a volunteer herself, and she has signed up during National Volunteers’ Week to give back to the organization that provided such comfort to her family.

Community support is also coming from local businesses in Oldham and the surrounding areas. In Uppermill, Muse Bar & Eatery, run by Rob Norbury, is donating a mouth-watering meal for 25 supporters of Dr Kershaw’s. This event, taking place during National Volunteers’ Week, aims to raise funds and awareness for the hospice, highlighting how local enterprises are joining the effort to support its work.

Golfers also played their part in fundraising, with the annual Dr Kershaw’s Cup golf day at Crompton and Royton Golf Club raising £7,663. This year’s event exceeded last year’s total, thanks to the participation of local golfers and businesses. The funds raised will go directly to patient care services at the hospice, which serves people across Oldham and Greater Manchester.

These efforts demonstrate the strong community spirit in Oldham and the surrounding areas. Dr Kershaw’s Hospice relies heavily on volunteer work and donations to provide its services, and every contribution makes a difference. With the funding gap still a challenge, the hospice is encouraging residents to continue supporting through volunteering, donating, or attending events. The hospice’s work is vital for the community, and initiatives like these help ensure that compassionate care can be provided to those who need it most.