Category: Fundraising

How many sweets in the jar? Tracy Atkins gets her fundraising underway as she strives for £2,800 target

A hospice Health Care Support Worker is planning to raise £2,800 this summer by trekking the Great Wall of China.

Tracy Atkins, 51, from Lincoln, is heading to Beijing in September for an eight-day charity trek in aid of St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice.

Tracy said: “The trek really is the chance of a lifetime and I am honoured to be able to raise the money for St Barnabas. My family and colleagues are behind me one hundred percent and their support will help with the emotional and physical aspects of this challenge.

“Every day I witness first hand just how crucial fundraising is to the care and services we provide and it is really motivating to know that I am able to support that, even in some small way.”

Two years ago Tracy raised £1,500 when she jumped 13,000ft in a sponsored skydive.

Tracy said: “Fundraising is vitally important to our hospice because it raises much-needed funds and helps to raise the awareness of our services.

“People often ask me if working in a hospice is upsetting and, although we experience times of great sadness, the hospice is also an inspiring place filled with laughter, love and an abundance of happy times.

“I am incredibly proud to say I work for the hospice and that I am able to help people to have the best quality of life until the very end. It is comforting to know that what we do makes a real difference to so many people across Lincolnshire.”

Tracy has worked at the Inpatient Unit on Nettleham Road in Lincoln for the past 17 years.

Tracy said: “My role is to take care of the patients, which can be anything from helping them to eat and drink to washing their hair and applying their make-up. It’s about more than just the physical side of care. It’s about ensuring that their wellbeing is looked after.

“I am so confident about the quality of care that we deliver that if a member of my family ever needed the support of the hospice I know they would be receiving the best possible care in Lincolnshire.”

Since the beginning of January, Tracy has organised a coffee morning, bingo night and disco to help raise the minimum sponsorship of £2,800 for her to take part in the trip.

Tracy continued: “I am very lucky to have the support of all my wonderful colleagues who have been digging deep to help me in my fundraising endeavours. They have helped to raise over £700 already.

“The knowledge that the money I raise will directly benefit local adults battling life-limiting illnesses is enough to see me through to the finish line.”

To sponsor Tracy, go to: https://www.justgiving.com/Tracy-Atkins3

John and Anne on their silver wedding anniversary in 1989

An annual quiz night that was started by Lincoln widower, John Davey in memory of his wife, Anne is celebrating its 20th year this year.

Since the quiz began in 1996 over £35,500 has been raised for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice who cared for John’s wife in her final days.

In December 1992, Anne was admitted to the hospice on Nettleham Road in Lincoln after being diagnosed with terminal cancer.

John, 77, said: “Anne’s diagnosis came as a real shock to us all especially when we learnt that nothing more could be done for her. It was such a sad time, truly heart-breaking for all the family.

“I was a little apprehensive when it was suggested that Anne should be transferred into the care of the hospice but I was assured that they would be able to help make Anne comfortable and pain-free.

“The hospice was a truly wonderful place and the people there were incredibly kind. They took such good care of Anne but they also looked after the whole family too.”

John added: “I will always remember the night I fell asleep holding Anne’s hand and I awoke to find that a blanket had been placed over me by one of the kind people there. It’s only a small thing but it is something I will never forget and it really meant a lot.”

During her time in the hospice, Anne and John celebrated Christmas and New Year together.

“I’ll never forget Christmas Eve and the carol singers who were performing in the hospice. The sound of the music drifted into Anne’s room and the most remarkable thing happened, Anne sat up in bed for the first time in a long time and she sat and sang every carol. For that short time, I had my Anne back, she was just like her old self.

“It was wonderful, they had managed to bring Christmas inside the hospice and bring some normality back into all of our lives. Of course, I have many sad memories of Anne’s time in the hospice but I was also given many happy ones and it’s those memories that are really important.”

Anne died at the hospice at the age of 56 on 13th January 1993, just eight weeks after being diagnosed.

Following her death, John organised two sponsored walks which raised over £8,000 for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice. In 1996, John decided to organise a quiz night which became known as the annual Wine and Wisdom fundraiser.

John said: “Wine and Wisdom began as a wonderful way to remember my wife of 29-years and also for our family and friends to remember her too. It also gave us an opportunity to raise money to help other families who need the valuable support of the hospice.

“I am truly humbled by the amount of money the quiz has raised and it far exceeds any expectations I had. I never expected the quiz to become so popular and I wouldn’t have dared to dream that it would still be going now.

“It’s a lovely lasting tribute to my dearest Anne.”

Wine and Wisdom is held on Friday 4th March, from 7pm, at Waddington Village Hall on Mere Road in Lincoln. Participation cost is £6 per person and teams of 5 – 8 will compete in eight rounds of questions. The winning team will win a bottle of wine each.

Participants can register online at: www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/WWWAD

For more information please contact Ben Petts, Community Events Fundraiser on 01522 559 515 or e-mail ben.petts@stbarnabashospice.co.uk

Thonock Park course

Golfers from across Lincolnshire are encouraged to take part in the annual golf day and help raise money for local hospice

Local independent charity, St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice are holding a golf day to help boost the funds they need to care for people living with a life-limiting illness throughout the county.

The golf day will be held at Gainsborough Golf Club on Belt Road on Friday 1st July. There is availability for 20 teams of four to take part in the AM-AM tournament on the Thonock Park course.

Caroline Swindin, Community Events Fundraiser for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said:

“Our golf day is an annual event and last year it raised £3,000 and we are hoping to build on that success this time. Money raised from events like this one allows us to continue to deliver our specialist end of life care to those who need it the most.”

Anyone can take part in the golf day, costing £140 per team of four people which includes a drink on arrival and a two-course carvery lunch.

For more information please contact Caroline Swindin, Community Events Fundraiser on 07435 970309 or e-mail caroline.swindin@stbarnabashospice.co.uk

St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice puts out an appeal for unwanted Christmas presents at their annual coffee morning

St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice are inviting the local community of Gainsborough and Morton to their Bring a Gift coffee morning on Thursday 4th February from 10am – 12 noon.

The coffee morning will be held at St Barnabas Hospice, George Henderson Lodge, Front Street in Morton. George Henderson Lodge provides community hospice services to patients and their families living with the impacts of a life-limiting illness.

Caroline Swindin, Community Events Fundraiser for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said:

“It is always lovely to see the hospice bustling with lots of visitors and everyone is very welcome. Our February Coffee Morning has become better known as a Bring a Gift coffee morning where we see kind members of the public donate unopened Christmas gifts; which are very much appreciated and used to support future tombola’s and raffles in the area.”

Guests can indulge in a slice of cake and a hot drink before browsing stalls and trying their luck on the tombola.

For more information please contact Caroline Swindin, Community Events Fundraiser on 07435 970309 or e-mail caroline.swindin@stbarnabashospice.co.uk

Dan Hadfield as Gary Barlow

Gary Hadfield takes to the stage in Gainsborough to raise funds for Lincolnshire residents battling life-limiting illnesses

St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice are excited to announce that the world’s number one Gary Barlow tribute act, Dan Hadfield will be performing in April to raise funds for the hospice.

The evening of musical entertainment will be held at Gainsborough Golf Club on Belt Road on Saturday 16th April from 7pm. Guests will enjoy a one-course meal before Dan Hadfield takes to the stage. There will also be a disco that will run until midnight.

Dan has performed with Gary himself and tours all over the world with his solo show. Dan has appeared with Gary on the Xtra Factor as well as being voted Britain’s Best Lookalike.

His uncanny resemblance in looks, mannerisms and vocal performances has left audiences stunned by his likeness to Gary himself.

Dan Hadfield said: “I’m very happy to be supporting St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice. What St Barnabas does for patients and their families is outstanding and their support is absolutely crucial.

“As a Lincolnshire lad, I’m pleased to be involved in what will be an amazing night and hope to see you there to help raise as much money as possible.”

Tickets are priced at the early bird rate of just £20 per person until 1st March. Tickets purchased after this date will be £25 per person.

Caroline Swindin, Community Events Fundraiser for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said:

“I am absolutely delighted that Dan chose to support our hospice by being our star guest for the evening. Dan is an acclaimed performer which ensures that our guests are going to get a fantastic and enjoyable night.

“It is through events like this one that we are able to raise the vital funds we need to continue caring for patients and their families, who are living with the impacts of a life-limiting illness.”

To find out more go to www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/gary16 or contact Caroline on 07435 970309, email caroline.swindin@stbarnabashospice.co.uk

Deaf musician Paul Whittaker will share an inspirational talk and perform in aid of St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice

On Friday 22nd April, from 7.30pm, St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice will be hosting an evening of music with Dr Paul Whittaker OBE and the Lindum Ladies Choir at Hemswell Court in Gainsborough.

Dr Paul Whittaker OBE is an inspiring speaker, musician, performer and workshop leader who has been profoundly deaf since the age of 11. He is an organist and a pianist who was accepted at Wadham College, Oxford, to read for a music degree.

Since then Paul has spent over 25 years entertaining, informing and educating people about music and deafness across the UK and beyond. Paul offers a taste of music, laughter and deaf awareness in his own inimitable style, including piano music and signed song.

Caroline Swindin, Community Events Fundraiser for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said:

“I am absolutely thrilled that Paul will be returning to Lincolnshire to work with us for the second consecutive year. He was incredibly popular last time and his charisma and sheer talent were enjoyed by all who attended.

“We are so thankful to have Paul joining us and he will be accompanied by the Lindum Ladies Choir who will also be performing throughout the night. The evening of music is sure to delight the listener’s senses.”

Guests can also take advantage of a special overnight package rate which can be booked directly with Hemswell Court, call 01427 668508 for further information.

Tickets for the evening’s entertainment are £22 per person and includes canapés and a drink on arrival.

To find out more go to www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/musical or contact Caroline on 07435 970309, email caroline.swindin@stbarnabashospice.co.uk

The internationally acclaimed Morriston Orpheus Choir will perform at Lincoln Cathedral in aid of St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice

On Saturday 7th May, from 7:30 pm, Lincoln Cathedral will be host to the 80 strong, world famous Morriston Orpheus Choir.

First formed in 1935 and enjoying an international reputation as a leading figure of male choral singing, the Morriston Orpheus Choir is in constant demand performing around 25 engagements annually. In addition, the Choir undertakes performances on television, at national and promotional events and have also performed at Sydney Opera House.

This concert was idea of hospice supporter, Keith Hebblewhite, who as a choir enthusiast wanted to bring the choir to Lincoln as part of a charity fundraiser.

Keith Hebblewhite said: “I have supported the hospice for 20 years, I am also a huge fan of the Morriston Orpheus Choir, and they performed for the hospice in 2003 and 2005 so it is time to bring the boys back to town!”

Ben Petts, Community Events Fundraiser for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said:

“We are incredibly grateful for the support and commitment Keith and the Morriston Orpheus Choir have given us. We are privileged to be able to work alongside such talented people who are helping to make a real difference to patients and their families with a life limiting illness across Lincolnshire.”

The Morriston Orpheus Choir, often referred to as the ‘Ambassadors of Song’, is probably the most travelled of the Welsh male voice choirs. To date, 30 overseas concert tours have been undertaken since 1965.

Steve Pearson, engagement secretary from The Morriston Orpheus Choir, said:

“Morriston Orpheus Choir is a registered charity with two main stated aims, the preservation of the Welsh Choral Music Tradition, and raising money for charitable causes.

“Since its inception the Choir has raised many thousands of pounds for various good causes, including the Hospice Movement.

“Every year, the Choir performs for the Ty Olwen Hospice in Morriston, Swansea, and we are always in awe of the dedication and care provided by hospice staff.”

Steve concludes: “The Choir is absolutely delighted to return to Lincoln in aid of St Barnabas Hospice. It is a privilege for us to be able to support the work of the hospice that provides vital specialist palliative care in this community.”

Tickets are sectioned in pricing, £22.50, £18.00 and £15.00 all of which can be purchased from www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/morristonchoir Tickets can also be purchased at the Lincoln Cathedral Box Office.

Ginny, the Bengal tiger that was rescued

Kathleen Barnett shares this captivating tale of the experience of being an adoptive mum to a tiger.

St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice are inviting the local community to join them for Supper with the Tigers on Friday 11th March at Market Rasen Golf Club, from 6.30pm.

Guests can enjoy a two-course supper before Kathleen Barnett entertains with her `Meeting our Tiger’ talk. This talk is a moving insight into the rescue of a Bengal tiger – to which she became an adoptive mum. The tiger was rescued from a squalid zoo in Belgium before returning to its homeland in India.

Caroline Swindin, Community Events Fundraiser for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said:

“This promises to be a great night out for all the family, with a delicious supper, fascinating talk and a special surprise appearance. The evening will also help to raise funds to support the delivery of Hospice community services to patients and their families battling a life-limiting illness across Lincolnshire”

Tickets for Supper with the Tigers can be purchased in advance for only £15 per adult and £10 for children aged 12 years and under.

To find out more go to www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/tiger or contact Caroline on 07435 970309, email caroline.swindin@stbarnabashospice.co.uk

Local charity hunts for the final contestants for their Lincoln based Strictly Ballroom and Strictly Kidz

St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice is putting out a final call for registrations before their Strictly Ballroom dance lessons gets underway.

Local independent charity St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice is hosting two Strictly Ballroom fundraisers to be held in Lincoln; one for adults and one for children (age 8 – 16).

The professionally led dance lessons commence on Sunday 17th January at St Johns Baptist Church Hall, Sudbrooke Drive, Lincoln with the finale held on Sunday 3rd April at the Lincoln Performing Arts Centre (LPAC).

Becky Otter, Events Manager for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said:

“We are delighted that we have had 52 novice dancers come forward to take part in our Strictly fundraisers. They are all enthusiastic, excited and keen to be involved in a truly memorable event.

“We will be with them every step of the way as we support them through the dance lessons, the fundraising and the grand finale. Our aim is to ensure that everyone enjoys themselves and that everyone puts their best foot forward, all while raising money for their local hospice.”

Adults will learn the Rumba and the Quickstep whilst the Strictly Kidz will learn the Tango and Balmoral Blues.

Registration is £5.00 per competitor and adults are asked to raise a minimum of £100 each and children £50 each. The children’s lessons are from 4pm – 5pm, followed by the adult lessons 5.30pm – 6.30pm.

Becky concludes:

“Strictly Ballroom is a vibrant and fun event that enables our contestants to learn new skills and make new friends. It brings together our community who surprise us each year with their support and generosity.

“Over the years we have seen the impacts of our Strictly fundraisers on our contestants who have gained confidence and new skills which they have been able to apply long after the finale is over.”

To register:

Lincoln adults: www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/lincolnstrictly2016

Lincoln Strictly Kidz: www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/strictlykidz2016

For more information contact Becky Otter on becky.otter@stbarnabashospice.co.uk or call her for a chat on 01522 559516.

Lincoln, 27th November 2015 – On December 12th St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice will be hosting their annual Christmas Sing Along and High Street Collection.

Hospice staff, volunteers, local choirs, music groups and students will be raising funds for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice this Christmas. There will be various musical performances throughout the day with acts such as: Acapella Sounds, Lincoln College, Lincoln Ukulele Band and members from the Lincoln University Orchestra.

Funds raised from this event will go directly towards providing a patient to stay in the 11 bed In-Patient Unit and enjoy a Christmas Dinner. From 9am – 3pm a team of staff and volunteers alike will be fundraising on Lincoln High Street. St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice will also have a stall in St Benedict’s Square where the musical acts will perform and last minute stocking fillers can be purchased.

Amelia Fairweather from a local Beaver Scouts group said “The Beaver Scouts at 12th Lincoln Dragonfly Colony, wanted to do something nice for people in our local community. They wanted to help people at Christmas time and they love to sing!! St Barnabas was a natural choice as several of our families have been helped by them”

Robert Steadman, Conductor for the University of Lincoln Orchestra said “The University Orchestra are very keen to be involved in the Christmas Sing Along because we feel music reaches out and unites people in a way little else can. We are all part of one city, United in song!”

The St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice annual Christmas Sing Along will take place on Saturday December 12th from 9am – 3pm. The Hospice stand will be situated in St Benedict’s Square, if anyone would like to get involved by performing a 30 minute set then get in touch with Ben Petts on 01522 559515 or email: ben.petts@stbarnabashospice.co.uk