In 2017, actor Warwick Davis joined St Barnabas’ ‘cast list’. However, his support started a year earlier when a close family member began volunteering at our Hospice in the Hospital in Grantham.
They would often wax lyrical to Warwick about the Hospice and our good work. So when we invited Warwick to visit, he was keen to see what it was all about.
In his own words…
“Before I heard about St Barnabas, I didn’t realise these places existed. So when I walked into the Hospice, I was hugely impressed with the homely feel of the place. There was so much love and warmth, patients had entire families by their sides, and pets too. It felt like stepping into a version of their living room. It was totally different to what I expected.
“None of us wants to think we might need end-of-life care, but if we do, it’s important that places like this are available. However, I believe it’s not only the Hospices themselves that are important, it’s also about the network of support that families become part of. Yet despite their importance, they rely on donations to keep caring for patients and their families. That’s why when I was asked to help, I said yes straight away.
“I had the privilege of officially opening the Hospice in Grantham in 2016, and a year later, I became a patron for St Barnabas. Since then, I’ve supported several campaigns, including fundraising events. Launching the dragonfly ironworks display at Doddington Hall was very special, it was beautiful and a heartfelt way to remember loved ones. The Forever in our Hearts ironwork display at Lincoln Cathedral in 2022 was equally moving, knowing every heart was a tribute to someone no longer with us, and missed by their loved ones.
“I truly believe if you’ve got a voice that people will listen to, it’s important to use it and not waste it. Unfortunately, many charities don’t have a voice on their own and need patrons to get noticed – not only to raise much-needed money but so people can benefit from their support. So I’ll continue supporting St Barnabas for as long as people are listening and I’m making a valid contribution to what the Hospice does for patients and families at one of the most difficult times of their lives.”
To see all 40 Faces and their stories, please visit: https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/40faces