Pledge to help Severn Hospice
The Oswestry branch of Severn Hospice is urging the community to get involved in fundraising to bridge the gap left by health cuts.
Telford and Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Group decision to cut the hospice's funding by 25 per cent will leave a £250,000 hole in the charity's budget.
The hospice has announced it will have to close two beds at its Telford unit.
Margaret Bradford, chairman of the Oswestry fundraising branch of the charity said it was a massive impact for the hospice.
She became involved in fundraising for the hospice after her mother and aunt spent their final days at the hospice.
"They don't only help the patient but the whole family," she said.
"As well as the hospice beds there is also the hospice at home scheme which is invaluable. The support leaving the family free to have that bit of quality time."
"Obviously more fundraising than ever is now needed to provide these essential services and I am appealing to people in some small way."
The first person to step in to answer Mrs Bradford's plea for help is singer Libby Glicksman.
She has offered to hold an Adele tribute night to raise funds.
Mrs Bradford said it was a wonderful offer and stressed that there were any number of ways that people could help including open gardens, coffee mornings, soup lunches and afternoon teas.
"We all have friends, relatives and neighbours who would love a foodie treat and would like to support Severn Hospice. It would be great to all work together and see what collective amount we can reach."
She said she and the hospice could give help and advice on holding events.
"Together we can make a difference. Please support this as we all know someone has benefited from the wonderful work the hospice does."
"If 20 people raise £50 then that's £1,000 and it all adds up."
Mrs Bradford said that anyone who had an idea or wanted advice could contact her on 07845609355.
