Bolton Hospice have launched a brand new patron scheme for local businesses & organisations who want to support Bolton Hospice through the Cost of Living crisis and beyond.

High fuel and energy costs and high inflation rates, combined with over 15 years of below inflation increases to our government NHS funding have placed a worrying, substantial financial burden on us. These external factors beyond our control mean we expect our costs this year to be £1.2 million more than our income.  Despite incredible support from our local community, year after year, our fundraising efforts simply cannot continue to keep up with our ever-increasing costs.

We have therefore decided to refresh our Patron Scheme in 2023, with the aim of attracting new Patrons to support the hospice in the long term and increase the contribution of this vital source of income to the hospice.

Joining the patron scheme is a wonderful way to show your support to your local hospice. All patrons receive a number of benefits, but the real benefit is knowing you are helping to fund free specialist care for patients and families when they need it most.

There are 4 levels to choose from; Diamond, Emerald, Platinum and Gold.

Bolton University & Stateside Foods are the first organisations to sign up to be Diamond Patrons!

Bolton University were the first to join as a brand new Diamond Patron. Their generous support will help Bolton Hospice continue to provide vital services for local people.

Professor George E Holmes DL, President and Vice Chancellor of the University of Bolton, said: "We are delighted and proud that the University of Bolton is the first Diamond Patron of Bolton Hospice, this reinforces both my own personal commitment to health care and that of the wider University.

The University is part of the fabric of the Bolton community and so is the Hospice, it provides an absolutely vital service to the people of our borough, when they and their loved ones most need it.

We are committed to continuing our support of such an amazing institution. I would encourage other businesses to follow the University of Bolton's lead and sign up to the Patron scheme. It will undoubtedly make a huge difference to many in our community."

Stateside Foods kindly uplifted their current patronage to Diamond to support the hospice in the face of their financial difficulties this year.

Heather Middlehurst, Head of People at Stateside Foods said, "As Bolton Hospice faces mounting financial challenges due to rising costs and the cost of living crisis, the availability of donations has become more restricted. Now, more than ever, it is vital for businesses to rally together and extend a helping hand to support the hospice through these difficult times.

The services offered by Bolton Hospice, not only alleviate the burden on our overstretched NHS, but also ensure that individuals facing their final days, do so with dignity, creating memories and cherishing precious moments with their loved ones, amidst serene and tranquil surroundings.

Stateside Foods have been proud patrons of Bolton Hospice for many years recognising their importance and the difference they make to local people, and I would urge other businesses to consider supporting our hospice and their dedicated team of staff and volunteers, in any way that they can. Together, let's be the driving force behind a compassionate community, enriching lives and leaving a lasting, positive impact on those most in need."

When you join the patron scheme you’ll be in good company! Local businesses MJ May, Lostock Skips, Lancasters Estate Agents, Barlow Andrews LLP, Incontinence Shop, and Roccia have kindly pledged their support by signing up to the new scheme.

What you’ll receive as Bolton Hospice Patron:

• Framed certificate to show your support
• Acknowledgement of your support on our brand new patron wall display in the hospice's main reception
• Invitations to special patron events
• Your name displayed on the hospice website
• Social media interactions acknowledging your patronage
• An editorial in The Bolton News to celebrate your patronage
• Unique opportunities undertaking practical jobs on site at the hospice or fundraising challenges in the community
• Use of our conference facilities for up to 20 people for 1 day including refreshments and lunch (Diamond & Emerald members only)
• An acrylic patron’s plaque to display at your workplace to show your support (Diamond & Emerald members only)
• Four free tickets to any of our events every year (Diamond & Emerald patrons only)

For more information & to sign up online please visit www.boltonhospice.org.uk/patron