Category: Fundraising
Make a difference and join St Barnabas’ growing network of dedicated volunteers
As a local charity, the support and dedication of volunteers is vital to help St Barnabas provide crucial care and support to patients and their families in Lincolnshire.
With a growing list of fundraising initiatives, and the opportunity to choose your own, a team of volunteers support with community engagement and lend a hand at events. The Fundraising Department is strengthening this support network with growing opportunities to get involved.
No matter your age or experience, anyone can support the hospice – like Jim.
Jim Ferguson, St Barnabas volunteer, says: “I’ve been supporting St Barnabas for around 10 years. I just wanted to give something back, but really, I do it because I can and I like to.
“Being with people is probably my favourite part, whether it’s patients or bereaved supporters. I help with a Coffee Morning in Grantham, and there’s between 20 – 25 people that come along, and we just have a nice chatter.”
As an ambassador, Jim supports by strengthening the hospice’s support network, showing that every donation matters by attending cheque presentations, encouraging others to host events, and organising his own. His passion, willingness, and positive attitude help to raise funds across the county.
Most recently, Jim also lends a hand with the St Barnabas collection pots – an initiative that provides an easy way to support vital hospice care in the local community.
Jim adds: “I live locally, so it seems logical to me to help by picking up the collection pots from pubs, clubs or shops – either when they’ve requested one or need one picking up and returning to St Barnabas. It’s quite a proactive role, I try and keep in touch with the local businesses, popping in and saying hi, how’s it going – just to let them know that we care.”
Rebecca Hooton, Individual Giving Manager at St Barnabas, says: “Collection pots are a simple but powerful way for people to donate and raise awareness for St Barnabas while out and about in their communities.
“This quarter alone, the pots have raised an incredible £6,448.33, compared to £3,784.65 during the same period last year, that’s a huge 70% increase! You can see just what an impact they are having.”
Whether you’re a business looking for a simple way to give back or a supporter wanting to make a small everyday contribution, every penny adds up to make a real impact. Do you know of a shop, café, pub, or workplace that could host one? Call our Supporter Engagement team on 01522 540 300 or email supportercare@stbarnabashospice.co.uk.
Jim continues: “Just before Covid, I did the Great Wall of China walk for St Barnabas, and that’s where I met Caroline [Head of Fundraising and Lottery] and Rebecca [Individual Giving Manager], and they asked me if I would be an ambassador.
“So mostly I support Fiona and the Fundraising Department with fundraising events and wherever she needs help. Supporting with picking up donations from in the community, occasionally making a small speech on behalf of St Barnabas to thank them. I’m pretty much jack-of-all-trades!”
Anyone over the age of 14* can volunteer, and it is a great way to meet new people, build new skills for your CV, and help make a difference to your local community. Roles are flexible to suit the time and skills you have, and those you want to learn or develop.
Jim said: “If it’s on your radar, do it! It’s worthwhile, you meet a nice group of people that you work with, and you meet people who have been touched by St Barnabas. And sometimes they just want to talk, and it’s just providing that little bit of comfort to people.”
Volunteers over the age of 14 and from all backgrounds are welcome to apply via the St Barnabas website.
St Barnabas Garden curated by John Cullen Gardens awarded Gold at Lincolnshire Show
A beautiful collaboration between St Barnabas and Boston-based nursery owners and horticulturists, the St Barnabas Garden offered a moment of peace that touched visitors during the Lincolnshire Show.
Founded in London in 2009, John and Hugh moved their business, John Cullen Gardens, to Lincolnshire in 2015, having located the ideal place in the county for their ever-expanding collection of plants.
John says: “We donated some plants to St Barnabas last year, and from that, we started a conversation with the team.
“My mum recently passed away from dementia and Alzheimer’s, and we had struggled with mum over the Covid-19 period. We didn’t realise there were any of these facilities available.
“We wanted to create a display for St Barnabas as a conversation piece. We just thought it would be a good place to make people aware of the care and support that St Barnabas offers.
“I know that, for us as a family, had we had access to that sort of care and support, it would have helped us. And I might have kept mum at home a little bit longer. So, we’re quite passionate about the messaging behind the garden.”
Hugh adds: “Gardening is also a great process to support with mental health problems or bereavement. When we were made redundant, we turned ourselves to the garden and worked on this business. To us, it’s more like a therapy than a job.”
The St Barnabas Garden featured a variety of multifunctional plants and herbs, with an olive tree representing the tree of life, adorned with messages about the hospice.
John explains: “At the front, you can see lavender and thyme – both really important herbs. They go way back and were classified as strewing herbs. People would cut them and throw them on the floor to walk across, because they’ve got antibacterial qualities in them.
“The other flowers have some edible qualities but also look pretty in your garden. So, flowers like dahlias, cornflowers, and yarrow. We also included a Japanese Cedar because we wanted to show people that you can have something in your garden that looks like a box ball, but it won’t get affected by the box blight that’s spreading through Lincolnshire.”
Fiona, Community Fundraiser at St Barnabas, says: “It’s been brilliant working with John and Hugh, and I can’t thank them enough for their vision, creativity, and support of the hospice. I’m so proud to say that the fantastic show garden was awarded Gold!
“We’ve had lots of wonderful conversations with visitors throughout the Lincolnshire Show, who have engaged with the garden and supported us through donating or purchasing some of our merchandise.”
John and Hugh had to create a variety of different garden designs after encountering several challenges along the way.
John says: “Doing a display is always quite stressful, because you’re working with different elements. So, every year is different. This year the wind has been an issue. We’ve had really warm days, but a really cold easterly wind. The problem is that when you get those high temperatures of 25, 26 degrees, and then have an icy wind going through, it’s like getting frostbite for the plants.
“A lot of plants then get this black circle in the middle of their leaves and that’s windburn. We’ve had it across 38 to 40% of the nursery. So, a lot of the things we were going to use for the display, we couldn’t.
“Also, because it was really warm in April and May, a lot of plants we would normally use at this time of year had already gone.”
John continues: “The garden has been well received; I think people like that it’s working in conjunction with St Barnabas. For a lot of people, they are quite proud of the county, and they like that it’s a partnership between Lincolnshire growers and a Lincolnshire charity. It’s a nice synergy.”
John Cullen Gardens Limited grow plants organically by hand at their nursery in rural Lincolnshire, specialising in plants for pollinators, as well as culinary and medicinal herbs. Visit the website for more details and to see the range of open days and creative workshops they offer: John Cullen Gardens / Buy Plants / Perennials / Herbs / House Plants
If you’re a keen gardener, we encourage you to open your garden in support of St Barnabas. Find out more about hosting an Open Garden here: Open Gardens – St Barnabas Hospice
11 local businesses took part in a day of celebration and giving back for St Barnabas’ Birthday!
After the overwhelming success of last year’s Big Business Help Out, St Barnabas invited local businesses to mark St Barnabas’ birthday with a day of corporate volunteering and networking.
On Wednesday 11th June, 11 local businesses took part in a Big Help Out inspired event, that encouraged co-workers to come together, network, and lend a hand in the community.
The day saw 28 attendees from a variety of businesses dedicate one day of their time to support the provision of end-of-life and palliative care services for patients and families, while finding out more about St Barnabas Hospice on its 43rd birthday.
After arrival and delivery of the day’s agenda, all attendees received an overview of the care and services provided by St Barnabas Hospice. Throughout the day, each group then had the opportunity to engage in a variety of hands-on activities, rotating between different volunteering actions and interactive sessions – including sorting retail donations, distributing leaflets, wound simulation, and discussing collaboration ideas.
Olivia Dexter, Corporate Relationships Lead at St Barnabas, says: “This fantastic day provided an insightful view into what we do at St Barnabas, and the crucial role that volunteering plays across multiple areas of the Trust.
Now more than ever, we are so grateful for the support corporates can provide. We have recently shared the reality of our financial challenges, and with only 44% of our funding coming from statutory sources and daily running costs of £40,000 – the community’s support has never been more important.
I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who attended our event – your support ensures that people living with a life-limiting or terminal illness, and their families and carers, get the support and care they deserve.”
This unique team building experience has supported vital hospice care within the local community and explored ways to work together in the future – helping St Barnabas be there to support people in Lincolnshire in many years to come.
Corporate partnerships provide many ways in which businesses can donate time and money to St Barnabas, whether through a small gesture or a big event.
By partnering with St Barnabas, local businesses can show their commitment to improving end-of-life care for people in Lincolnshire, help to support people in the community who have a life-limiting or terminal illness, and motivate employees.
From hosting a collection pot to taking on a challenge, choosing us a charity partner or becoming a headline sponsor for an event, there are many ways corporates can get involved.
If you would like to work with St Barnabas to raise awareness and vital funds, please contact: Olivia Dexter, Corporate Relationships Lead, at Olivia.dexter@stbarnabashospice.co.uk.
Or if you would like to donate your time, St Barnabas Hospice is always looking for volunteers who want to make a difference to their local community. A wide range of roles are available to suit different abilities, skills, and interests.
The Hospice welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds, over the age of 14. Please apply via the St Barnabas Hospice Website.
Runners take on Lincoln 10k and raise nearly £12,000 for St Barnabas Hospice
A team of runners took part in the Jane Tomlinson’s Run for All City of Lincoln 10k on Sunday 6th April 2025 in support of St Barnabas.
One of the biggest and best-loved running events in Lincolnshire, the City of Lincoln 10k passes through the city’s historic Roman Walls, Cathedral and Castle, with thousands participating every year.
We are extremely grateful to all the runners who ran in support of St Barnabas Hospice. Together these incredible runners have raised nearly £12,000 in donations, plus over £2,500 in Gift Aid, with donations still coming in.
Gift Aid is one of the easiest and most effective ways to give an extra 25% to charity. The scheme, introduced by the Inland Revenue, allows us to claim Gift Aid tax relief of 25p for every £1 donated, at no extra cost to the donor.
All donations raised through challenges like the Lincoln 10k contribute to the funding of St Barnabas’ vital services, helping to provide essential hospice care to over 12,000 people annually. Each year we need to raise £7 million to keep providing these vital services. By way of example, the current Lincoln 10k fundraising total could cover the cost of over a month of Hospice at Home care.
Chris ran the Lincoln 10k in support of St Barnabas in honour of his mum who received care at the Lincoln Inpatient Unit in 2014.
Chris says: “I was absolutely blown over by how supportive and caring the staff were, St Barnabas has always resonated with me ever since.
“Running in the Lincoln 10k brings a sense of poignancy. I like to challenge myself and achieve something. The important thing, though, is to try and raise as much money as possible because it’s so difficult nowadays. For places like the Hospice, there’s a lot of financial challenges.”
This year, the Lincoln 10k coincided with runner Sarah’s mum’s birthday.
Sarah says: “My mum died last October. It’s incredibly emotional to run the Lincoln 10k on her birthday in support of St Barnabas. When I’ve run previous Lincoln 10ks, she was always here for me, cheering me on. She was always there, no matter how she was feeling.
“It was an emotional run, especially as you go past the Inpatient Unit twice on the route. It was amazing to have everyone cheering.”
John, Headteacher at Ling Moor Academy, comments: “We ran the Lincoln 10k for Debbie, a Teaching Assistant at our school, who sadly died from cancer. St Barnabas is our chosen charity and it’s just a great cause – we do a lot for them. The ship in the playground is even called HMS St Barnabas.
“We do Rudy’s Run with the kids every year, so it was about time the staff did their bit. We’re hoping to do the Lincoln 10k each year.”
Corporate partners, Agrigem, took on the Lincoln 10k for their annual team challenge.
Vanessa shares: “We wanted to raise money for St Barnabas as it has touched a number of our lives. The support from Ness at St Barnabas throughout the process has been amazing and engaging.”
Andrew adds: “I found it exciting to challenge myself alongside the team. Especially as I’m not a runner and have trained to take on this challenge.”
Ness Wilson, Fundraising Team Lead, says: “After months of emails and phone calls, it was wonderful to meet our St Barnabas Hospice runners on the day. It has been heartwarming to hear their stories and see the passion and pride they had in supporting our Hospice. The energy and enthusiasm they all brought was truly inspiring. Thank you as well to the Lincoln Hotel for allowing us to use their grounds for our finishers area.
“We are looking for regular runners and beginners alike to join us for the Lincoln Half Marathon 2025 and Lincoln 10k 2026 in aid of St Barnabas Hospice. By signing up, you will have the chance to be part of a great community experience whilst supporting local Hospice care.”
Chris comments: “I would really encourage anybody to take part. I really appreciate the vibe of the Lincoln 10k, there’s a collective energy among the crowd and it really propels you.”
Sarah adds: “When you’re doing it for fundraising, it pushes you along and keeps you going.”
Vanessa says: “Just do it – not only does it get you fit, but you’re helping such a great cause.”
Andrew agrees: “I always encourage people to challenge themselves.”
If you’re feeling inspired to take on the City of Lincoln 10k and support St Barnabas on Sunday 12th April 2026, you can register for your place here: https://www.runforall.com/events/10k/city-of-lincoln-10k/ and then let us know you are running in support of St Barnabas here: https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/events/lincoln-10k/
Or, if you’re looking to increase your running challenge to a half marathon, you can sign up for one of St Barnabas’ Great North Run charity places for 7th September 2025 or register your interest in supporting us at the Lincoln Half Marathon on 5th October.
Support St Barnabas by taking on the C2C2C Charity Cycle Challenge
Pedal power and passion remain at the heart of the C2C2C charity cycle ride, and St Barnabas has 20 charity places for riders. Cycle 100 miles through the picturesque Lincolnshire countryside on Thursday 26th June and help to raise vital funds for local hospice care.
Valued supporters Darren Louis, Clive Cox and James Wadsworth, are gearing up to participate once again and St Barnabas are looking for cyclists to join them.
Darren, from Lincolnshire, says: “I’ve been fundraising for St Barnabas for quite a while now, ever since I started working at my current employer, HomeLet – St Barnabas is one of the charities we regularly fundraise for. Over the past five years I’ve taken part in candlelight walks and bike rides. This will be my third time taking part in the C2C2C.”
Clive, from Lincoln, says: “I’ve supported St Barnabas for many years, including donating items to charity shops. This is my third time doing C2C2C, and I’ll be riding alongside my Son-in-Law.”
On Thursday 26th June they’ll start from the City of Lincoln, ride through the beautiful Lincolnshire countryside towards the coast, then back towards Lincoln.
Sharing their thoughts on why they’ve chosen this challenge, Clive says: “I like cycling and St Barnabas is such an important service within the local area. It’s a great day out with like-minded people.”
James, Trustee at St Barnabas, shares: “I enjoy the event and like to raise funds for St Barnabas and awareness of their vital work.
“It’s a great feeling knowing you’ve completed the challenge, got all those miles and hills behind you, satisfied that the training was worth it, and you’ve raised money for St Barnabas.”
Darren adds: “I love cycling, and there’s nothing better than enjoying a summer ride while raising money for a great cause. It’s the perfect combination.
“It’s an incredible feeling knowing you’ve completed 100 miles and even better knowing that your efforts are helping support a brilliant charity.”
Some people ride all of it, some ride in relay. Mountain bikes, tandems, hire bikes, recumbents, or a Brompton – it doesn’t matter what you ride, so long as you power it yourself.
Darren comments: “I’ll be riding solo, but everyone you meet on the day quickly becomes your friend – sometimes just for the day, sometimes for longer!
“I’m really looking forward to it. I enjoy this ride every year, and this time, I’m hoping to focus a bit more on helping others along the way and offering support where I can.”
James notes: “I’m a bit nervous. It’s a great event, but always a good challenge. I need to build up my practice rides with increasing distances before June.”
The team at St Barnabas will support you every pedal of the way, including providing you with a St Barnabas branded cycling T-shirt to proudly wear on the ride.
Deborah Yarwood, Fundraising Officer and C2C2C Project Lead for St Barnabas, says: “Whether you ride solo or in relay, we’ll support you every turn of the wheel.
“The fundraising efforts of all our participants are greatly appreciated and contribute to the provision of vital Hospice care provided to over 12,000 people and families across Lincolnshire every year.
“We are filling places fast, and only have a limited number of places available! Join Darren, Clive, James and others in taking on this picturesque challenge in support of St Barnabas.”
Over £7 million needs to be raised each year to support St Barnabas in providing people with compassionate care in Lincolnshire.
To sign up, head to their website and complete the registration process: C2C2C 2025 – St Barnabas Hospice
Once on the registration page, please enter the code ‘StB2025’ under ‘St Barnabas Fundraising’ and click enter, then simply complete the registration process. We will get in touch with you soon after your registration is complete.
Offering their insights on tackling the C2C2C challenge, Clive says: “The more you train, the easier the ride, and the more enjoyable it is.”
James adds: “Give it a go! It isn’t easy, but it is worth it.”
Darren advises: “Take your time – this isn’t a race. Enjoy the food, the conversations, and remember, pain is temporary, but glory is forever… and you get a free t-shirt to show-off!”
To take part in an upcoming challenge, visit the website and sign up today: Challenges with St Barnabas – St Barnabas Hospice
Meet the makers: a couple of faces behind the ‘Knitted Novelties’ campaign
As Easter approaches, you can find boxes of Knitted Novelties within local businesses in Lincolnshire, for a suggested donation of £3. These unique, decorative novelties enclose everyone’s favourite treat, a crème egg, and all proceeds raised go towards supporting St Barnabas.
Each year, Fiona and Deborah, Community Fundraisers for St Barnabas, engage with the local community to inspire volunteers and supporters to knit creations, donate eggs, or host a box of Knitted Novelties. Anywhere from local shops, pubs, cafés, schools, and individual businesses can request a box.
St Barnabas volunteers, Rosje and Barbara, support the Fundraising Team by knitting novelties, liaising with local businesses, and helping to keep places topped up with the knitted creations.
Barbara, Sleaford volunteer, says: “It was Glenis, another St Barnabas volunteer, who first started the campaign in Sleaford around 10 – 12 years ago. She once spotted three knitted rabbits in a magazine and thought, “I can do better,” and that’s how it all began. Her speciality now is knitting rabbits with waistcoats!”
Though Glenis originally started on her own, other volunteers like Barbara soon got involved and there’s now a well-established Sleaford volunteer group supporting the Knitted Novelties campaign, supplying around 25 different local outlets.
Rosje, Grantham volunteer, said: “I’ve got Knitted Novelties documents from Grantham dating back to 2010 – it’s certainly been around a long time and has adapted over time.
“One year we created minions, and they went down incredibly well. We’ve since found that, in Grantham, the quirky, unique knitted creations perform best – we’ve been making unicorns recently!”
Barbara adds: “There are lots of different creations now as it’s gotten bigger. This year I’ve even seen rabbits holding carrots or footballs.
“They can be very therapeutic to create, and it is so good for wellbeing. It’s a great occasion for sitting around and having biscuits and a cup of tea.”
Sharing their advice for beginners, Barbara says: “Chickens are a good one to start off with, as they can be relatively simple to do. Whereas a rabbit can take around 2 hours to complete.”
As a local charity, we rely on the dedication of volunteers to help us provide vital care and support to our patients and their families. Without volunteers such as Barbara and Rosje, we could not continue to support the local community as we do.
Rosje comments: “Someone once said you’re not ‘just’ a volunteer, you’re spreading awareness of St Barnabas and helping to build the identity.”
Barbara says: “I wanted to support and volunteer with a worthwhile local charity. I think it’s amazing how many people are cared for by St Barnabas – the care is the very best you can have.
“People often say that they don’t know how to help, but by hosting fundraising initiatives or supporting fundraising campaigns like this, you are helping.”
We want to say a huge thank you to all our volunteers and supporters who knit novelties, donate eggs or wool, and sell a box of novelties.
All funds raised go directly towards supporting the provision of vital Hospice care across Lincolnshire.
Keep an eye out for these adorable, knitted creations in local shops, cafes, and workplaces near you. Please note, these are decorative items only, not to be sold as toys.
St Barnabas proud headline charity partner of inflatable obstacle course coming to Lincoln
The world’s largest inflatable obstacle course is coming to Lincoln on Saturday 7th June 2025, and St Barnabas Hospice is proud to be the Headline Charity Partner.
Navigate over 30 larger-than-life inflatables on this 5k course, newly enhanced for the biggest and best challenge yet. Stay energised as you bounce, slide, and swing through five motivating music zones.
The event is open to ages 5 and up and is the perfect way to kickstart the summer months with friends and family. Choose from 2.5k, 5k, 10k, or 15k, and take on obstacles such as the Holy Moly, Duck ‘N’ Dive, and The Web.
Enjoy an unforgettable day of fun and fundraising! Take on the challenge in support of St Barnabas and register today from £18. The St Barnabas team will be there to support you from the beginning, with hints and tips to maximise your fundraising, a free St Barnabas t-shirt and extra encouragement on the big day.
St Barnabas Hospice is a local independent charity, each year supporting more than 12,000 people across Lincolnshire affected by a life-limiting or terminal illness. All services provided are free of charge to patients and their families. Participants supporting St Barnabas are asked to fundraise a minimum of £80 in sponsorship to raise essential funds for local Hospice care.
Ness Wilson, Fundraising Team Lead at St Barnabas Hospice, says: “We aim to enable patients to live as fully as they are able for however many days, weeks, or months they have left. We couldn’t do this without our wonderful supporters.
“We are so grateful to the thousands of people who participate in our numerous activities and fundraisers, remembering loved ones and raising money for our charity.”
St Barnabas needs to fundraise over £7 million each year to cover the cost of providing vital hospice care.
The cost of caring for a patient within their own home for an hour is £19.93. Every pound raised makes a real difference to patients and families within the local community, just like John, who is cared for by St Barnabas.
After a palliative cancer diagnosis, John receives visits and specialist care from St Barnabas’ ‘Hospice at Home’ team.
John shares how he has been supported by the team: “They put handrails on the stairs, I’ve got a chair in the bathroom which I can sit on, and it lowers me down, and I’ve got grab rails in the shower so that I don’t fall.
“They put in place things like that for me which are very, very helpful.”
Further to practical adjustments, the St Barnabas ‘Hospice at Home’ team have provided John with vital wellbeing support.
He says: “It’s nice to have somebody here to talk to. They come and have a chat with me, ask me how I am, and if there is anything they can do.”
Money raised through events like the Inflatable 5k helps the Hospice provide free, compassionate, dignified palliative and end-of-life care to over 12,000 adults each year, as well as wellbeing services such as bereavement support, counselling, and welfare and benefits advice.
Sign up today in support of St Barnabas, with registrations from £18: https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/events/inflatable-5k/
To find out more about St Barnabas’s services, please visit: https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/
Jess Braves Second Fire Walk to Support St Barnabas
27-year-old Jess Meakin is taking on the Fire Walk challenge for a second time in support of St Barnabas Hospice.
Taking place at William Farr School on 15th March, Jess will feel the burn once again as she walks across hot coals, all while raising vital funds and taking the ultimate step to support hospice care.
In October 2023 Jess, alongside the group she completed the challenge with, raised an impressive £875 for St Barnabas. 
Jess says: “I was inspired to take part in the Fire Walk last year as I have lost many loved ones who were supported by St Barnabas Hospice, and I wanted to give back to the charity that supported my loved ones in their time of need.”
Fire Walk is one of the most challenging, adrenaline-fuelled journeys and it’s exactly as it sounds: a barefoot walk over red-hot embers, measuring 600°C.
Looking back on her experience, Jess comments: “Completing the Fire Walk gave me a huge sense of achievement, knowing that I had put myself out of my comfort zone to raise money for such an amazing cause, to help the selfless staff at St Barnabas help others.
“I felt reflective of the hard times that my loved ones had experienced and wished they had been there to watch and laugh as I walked on fire.”
Take part in this challenge alongside Jess and raise vital funds for local hospice care. With guidance from firewalking experts, you’ll be fully prepared to conquer the heat and earn your medal at the finish line. Every step you take will support dignity and care in your community, and we will support you all the way.
Jess continues: “I would recommend anyone who can to take part in the Fire Walk. It’s such a fun, buzzing environment and something different. Not only that, but by taking part you’re contributing to making even the smallest difference to someone’s life, their loved ones’ lives, and the Hospice in general.”
Jess shares her advice for those considering doing the Fire Walk challenge this year: “Don’t think twice about getting signed up and doing it, it is so worth it.”
As well as a brilliant crowd who will fan the flames with their cheers, we’ll be in the company of local food suppliers – including Charlie Bobanelli’s pizza & Fleurs Kitchen crepes and refreshments, for a well-earned treat after your challenge.
Sign up today for just £30 and fundraise £100 in sponsorship, to help us continue providing compassionate care across Lincolnshire. Alternatively, you can pay £130 in full to secure your place.
To sign up for the Fire Walk challenge, visit: https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/events/firewalk-2025/
In loving memory of G
Complete 10,000 steps a day this March in support of St Barnabas Hospice
Did you know a nurse walks on average 10,000 steps per shift? Join the Step Up For St Barnabas challenge and complete 10,000 steps a day this March to raise vital funds for local hospice care.
Whether it’s a morning dog walk or a lunchtime stroll, participants can take on the challenge at their own pace and log steps throughout the month alongside fellow fundraisers.
It’s a simple and straightforward process to get started. Sign up today and secure a spot for free. A fundraising page will be set up automatically, allowing participants to share it with family and friends and ask for sponsorship.
The aim is to raise a minimum sponsorship of £50 each, although there is no limit to how much can be raised.
Every £49.16 raised could pay for a physiotherapy or occupational therapy session to maintain a patient’s independence. People with a life-limiting or terminal illness may find that completing activities or basic tasks and maintaining independence can become more challenging.
St Barnabas Hospice offer various physical services including physiotherapies, occupational therapies, exercise classes and more. These are designed to support individuals to maintain their independence and function in line with individual goals.
Michelle Johnson, Senior Physiotherapist at St Barnabas, says: “I think there’s a big misconception within palliative rehabilitation that goals aren’t achievable, but that’s what we’re about. We support with anything from trying to get up steep hill in Lincoln to simply sitting up more in bed – it’s very much unique to a patient and what they would like to achieve. It’s a real privilege to be in that position to work with people at such a vulnerable time of their lives.”
Natalie McGann, Senior Physiotherapist at St Barnabas, adds: “The realisation patients have when they hit their goals or make progress towards them, is just really rewarding to see. Small changes can make such a difference to them and that means a lot.”
By taking on this challenge and fundraising, participants will be directly contributing towards the funding of these vital services and helping to provide essential hospice care to over 12,000 people annually. Complete 10,000 steps a day in March and receive a certificate when finished to mark the achievement.
Sign up today and make every step count: stbarnabashospice.co.uk/events/step-up
To find out more about St Barnabas’ services, please visit: https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/
10 for 10: CEO takes on 10 challenges to celebrate his tenth year at St Barnabas
Chris Wheway took on the St Barnabas Chief Executive role back in 2015, after over 20 years in the NHS. Now in his tenth year, Chris is undertaking ten meaningful activities to raise awareness of St Barnabas and fundraise to support the Hospice.
To kick off his 10 for 10, Chris recently volunteered with the Tree-Cycle team, helping to collect Christmas trees across Lincolnshire for recycling. This year the fundraising initiative has raised an incredible £28,919 through collecting 1,230 trees.
Chris says: “Tree-Cycle is an amazing initiative. Let’s be honest, after Christmas, most of us leave the Christmas tree in the garden and it’s a pain to put in your car and take to the tip. So, it’s providing a service and it also means that people can donate money to support St Barnabas. It’s something that provides a genuine win-win for the community and for us.”
Throughout 2025, Chris will be taking on a variety of different challenges, such as the Lincoln 10k, Inflatable 5k, and walking 10,000 steps a day throughout March for Step Up for St Barnabas.
Looking ahead to his challenges, Chris said: “There’s the C2C2C 100-mile charity cycle ride around Lincolnshire and there’s a five-peak challenge in October in the Lake District, which will also be challenging. The 10 for 10 challenges cover a range of activities, and all will be stretching.
Chris continues: “It’ll be great if people do follow my journey, because it’ll be fun, and you’ll see me in a lot of pain in several different circumstances! But more importantly, it’s all about supporting St Barnabas. We provide support during the most vulnerable times, and every donation changes lives.
“So please support us, have a bit of fun watching me, and be part of the St Barnabas family.”
Why not take on a challenge with St Barnabas alongside Chris this year? Accomplish new goals such as running a marathon, taking on skydiving, or increasing your daily step count, whilst raising funds for local hospice care.
St Barnabas supports over 12,000 patients and their families each year, and over £7 million needs to be raised annually to continue providing people with compassionate care in Lincolnshire.
All donations raised help the Hospice provide free palliative and end-of-life care, as well as wellbeing services such as bereavement support, counselling, and welfare and benefits advice.
To take part in an upcoming challenge alongside Chris or to choose your own for St Barnabas, visit the website and sign up today: https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/fundraising/challenges/