The Article is our Ayrshire Hospice newsletter, bringing you inspiring stories, updates, and ways to get involved. It’s our way of keeping in touch and sharing the impact you help make possible.
April 2025 EDITION 39
Capital Build Project:
Nearing Completion
As we get closer to the completion of our Capital Build Project, we’re excited to share some of the latest developments as we prepare to welcome patients, families, volunteers and staff back to our newly transformed space.
The major furniture deliveries have been completed, with hundreds of pieces now carefully assembled and placed throughout the facility. This includes the new, state-of- the-art patient beds for our 12 patient bedrooms, designed to enhance the comfort of those in our care The In-Patient Unit is taking shape beautifully, with the sedum roof having bedded in well over the past few months, adding a sustainable and
aesthetic touch to the building. The finishing touches are being added by our decorators, making the space even more welcoming and homely. External and internal signage is currently being manufactured, ensuring our new hospice environment is easy to navigate and feels like a true home for everyone. Landscaping has progressed significantly, with the front plaza and garden areas around the In- Patient Unit beginning to
take form. The garden, in particular, is a key feature, with patios outside each patient room providing a peaceful, plant-filled space for patients and families to enjoy. It’s a tranquil environment designed to enhance the overall experience and well-
being of our patients. Continued on page 5...
ayrshirehospice.org
April 2025 | EDITION 39
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Ladies Lunch Clubs Enjoy a warm welcome, a delicious two-course lunch
By Tracy Flynn, Chief Executive Officer
and a variety of entertainment at our monthly lunch clubs.
As we move further into 2025, the excitement at the Ayrshire Hospice is palpable.
Call 01292 288 488 , email community@ ayrshirehospice.org or scan the QR code for membership forms or more information.
The completion of our Capital Build Project is now in sight, and soon we’ll be returning to our beloved home at Racecourse Road. This marks a new chapter in our journey, and we can’t wait to bring patients, staff, and volunteers back to this special place that means so much to all of us. In this issue, you’ll see just how much is happening across the Hospice. From a variety of activities in our In-Patient Unit to the growth of our Education offering, we are continually enhancing our support for patients and their families. Our Respite and Response team is also doing incredible work, ensuring that families across Ayrshire and Arran have the support they need when it matters most. We’re also thrilled to welcome both returning and new volunteers to Racecourse Road. Volunteers play a huge role in everything we do, and their dedication is inspiring. Additionally, you’ll read about exciting changes in our Retail team, as they work hard to increase the impact of our charity shops and bring in even more funds to support our charity. There’s so much to look forward to in 2025. Our amazing community of fundraisers is already busy, and we can’t wait to celebrate all the events and initiatives that will continue to make a difference to those we care for. Thank you, as always, for your continued support. This is shaping up to be a year we will never forget, and we are incredibly grateful to have you with us on this journey. With gratitude,
WEDNESDAY Horizon Hotel, Ayr. £25 per person
THURSDAY Seamill Hydro, Seamill. £25 per person
Welcoming Claire to our Team By Lynne Hoffin, Clinical Manager We are delighted to welcome Claire Hendry, an experienced Specialist Palliative Care Nurse, to our team as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner.
Claire brings a wealth of expertise in palliative care, and her addition will further strengthen the high-quality, person-centred care we provide. In her role, Claire will rotate between the In-Patient Unit and the community, ensuring seamless support and continuity of care for patients and their families. Within the community setting, she will work alongside the Community Team, using her advanced clinical skills to assess patients’ needs and provide tailored support. Claire’s focus will include enabling patients to receive care in their preferred place, offering holistic support that prioritises people’s choices and enhances quality of life. Her compassionate approach, combined with her depth of experience, will be invaluable in supporting both patients and families during challenging times.
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We are thrilled to have Claire as part of our team and look forward to the positive impact she will have across our services.
If you would prefer not to receive The Article, please email us at newsletter@ ayrshirehospice.org
April 2025 | EDITION 39
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Back in 1990, Dr. Jimmy Begg and his friend, the late John Reid MBE, decided to publish a collection of their poems and short stories, with all proceeds donated to The Ayrshire Hospice, which had recently opened in 1989. An incredible 3,000 copies of The Dipper and the Three Wee Diels were sold, raising a remarkable £8,000 for the Hospice. Fast forward 34 years, and Jimmy has re-published an extended version of The Dipper with 280 pages, which Poetry Collection Returns
Capital Build Nearing completion...
includes much of his later work. John Reid’s family were delighted with this proposal. The Dipper an’ The Three Wee Deils – An’ a Guid Wheen Mair Poems (2024) is now in print and already available for sale at all Ayrshire Hospice shops (Ayr, Prestwick, Troon, Cumnock, Kilwinning, Girvan, Kilmarnock, Largs, and Saltcoats), as well as from Carn Publishing and Ayr Waterstones, with all proceeds going directly to support the work of the Hospice. Thank you to Dr. Jimmy Begg for his hard work and dedication, and to the late John Reid.
Flying without wings!
By Elaine Thomson Senior Fundraiser
Thirty willing participants, including several Ayrshire Hospice clinical staff, took to the skies to Zipslide across the Clyde in support of the Hospice, raising an incredible £15,284.04! Taking place alongside the River Clyde, beside the Riverside Museum in Glasgow, the participants were harnessed up before taking a short 150ft ride in the crane. From there, they made the leap of faith out of the crane cage into the Glasgow sky. The event sold out in a matter of days, and we can’t thank everyone enough for pushing themselves out of their comfort zone and supporting the Hospice in this way. A special thank you to Emma, who travelled all the way from Bangor, Northern Ireland, to take part in memory of her mum, Christine, who received hospice care.
Continued from page one:
Don’t worry if you missed out Zipslide the Clyde is back on Saturday 30th August. If you’d like to take part, sign up on our website: www.ayrshirehospice.org
And we’ve even added some lovely, personal touches, like our new ironmongery pedestrian gate featuring a hummingbird motif. Hummingbirds symbolise
joy and resilience, qualities that embody the spirit of our Hospice as we move forward, bringing hope and strength to those in our care. This new space is not just a building, but a dedicated environment that supports the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of our patients and their families. With a focus on dignity, privacy, and comfort, we are thrilled to be nearing the completion of a project that will enhance our ability to provide exceptional palliative and end-of-life care for many years to come. We can’t wait to open our doors and begin the next chapter in our mission to care for the people of Ayrshire and Arran.
April 2025 | EDITION 39
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Hitting the right note
Getting the word out
By Claire Stuart-Paulin, Senior Fundraiser
Isobel Millar organised her first fundraising event in September, a karaoke afternoon at Blacks Bar in Kilmarnock, raising over £4,000 for the Ayrshire Hospice. Inspired by her friend Julie, who has been receiving hospice care, Isobel was thrilled to sell over 100 tickets. The venue was buzzing, and the microphone was almost worn out by the end of the evening. With a little help from her friend “wee Lizzie,” there was a stunning raffle, which was applauded by all in attendance. The dynamic duo also put together hampers to take to the Ayrshire Hospice’s In-Patient Unit over the festive period, filled with home-baking and tasty treats for our patients and staff.
By Ron Swanson, Fundraising Manager
We enjoyed our first talk of the year as we visited the Friendship Group at Troon Church of Scotland.
Thank you so much for having us along - it was a pleasure to share information about our hospice services, fundraising activities and our Capital Build Project.
If you’d be interested in arranging a talk for a community group that you’re involved in, please contact Ron Swanson on 01292 288488 or email donate@ayrshirehospice.org.
Annie and Charles: Bringing Paws-itive Vibes to the Ayrshire Hospice Channel 5 News Feature Perceptions of Hospice Care
We’d like to thank them both for their hard work and generosity.
The Ayrshire Hospice Joins Campaign to Change
By Lorraine Barrie, Head of Communications and Marketing
On Wednesday 22nd January, the Ayrshire Hospice welcomed a Channel 5 News crew to film a heartwarming segment featuring our amazing volunteers, Charles and his adorable Yorkshire Terrier, Annie, from Pets as Therapy. Annie, a two-year-old bundle of joy, and her devoted owner Charles, have become regular visitors to the Hospice, bringing smiles, comfort, and some serious tail-wagging fun. Whether it’s a cuddle or a wag of Annie’s tail, they brighten up the days of patients, families, and staff, helping to create that all-important home-from-home atmosphere. Our Clinical Manager, Lynne, was also interviewed on camera, sharing just how much therapy pets like Annie contribute to the positive atmosphere at the Hospice. We’re incredibly grateful to Pets as Therapy for all the joy they bring and to Channel 5 for featuring this feel-good story. A big thank you to Charles, Annie, and everyone involved for making the Hospice a little bit brighter!
By Lucy Glendinning, Senior Fundraiser (Individual Giving & Legacies)
Throughout February, you may have seen the ‘This is Hospice Care’ advert on national television, encouraging people to consider leaving a gift in their Will to their local hospice.
By raising awareness of the vital role hospices play in communities and shifting public perceptions of hospice care, the campaign aims to inspire people to consider leaving a gift in their Will. This will ensure that hospices, including the Ayrshire Hospice, can continue to provide compassionate and specialist care for future generations. The Ayrshire Hospice is proud to be one of over 143 hospices across the UK participating in this campaign, a national initiative facilitated by Hospice UK.
This campaign provides an opportunity for the wider hospice sector to highlight the critical care that hospices, including ours, offer within homes and wards across communities. For the Ayrshire Hospice, legacy giving is crucial to our funding. In 2023, gifts in Wills helped fund one-third of the 160 in-patient stays provided at the Hospice—funding that is essential to our continued work.
You can catch the full segment by scanning the QR code – we promise it’s “paw-some” viewing!
For more information about the ‘This is Hospice Care’ campaign or to find out how you can support the Ayrshire Hospice, please visit www.ayrshirehospice.org or contact us at donate@ayrshirehospice.org
April 2025 | EDITION 39
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What is spiritual care?
The In-Patient Unit celebrated Valentine’s Day with a little extra love! Our dedicated team treated patients to individual mini bouquets of flowers, wrapped surprises, sweet treats like empire biscuits with love hearts, chocolate- drizzled biscuits, and flute glasses of bubbly (including zerosecco). Our wonderful nurses delivered these thoughtful surprises straight to the patients’ rooms, bringing smiles and a touch of celebration to their day. Thank you to our incredible staff for making this Valentine’s Day extra special, and to all who contributed to making our patients feel the love. Valentine’s Day Love at the In-Patient Unit
The Ayrshire Hospice is pleased to announce that it has entered into working partnerships with The Park Hotel Kilmarnock and Trump Turnberry Resort, both of which will offer benefits to our Patient Care programmes. Hospice Announces Exciting Partnerships
By Scott McKenna, Spiritual Lead
Let me borrow a story from a healthcare chaplain and academic. Imagine yourself in a deep, dense wood surrounded by beautiful trees, together with lush green moss and plants. As you make your way along the meandering path, you hear the sounds of running water in the distance. Suddenly, in the clearing, there is a stream sparkling and the wonder of a waterfall. The sounds of the stream and the spray of the water falling on your face touches you: the beauty and peacefulness lift you. For a moment, unexpectedly, you are taken into a different, deeper dimension of experience; you are taken out of yourself. Being rational for a moment, you ask, ‘What is a waterfall?’ ‘Why did it affect me like this?’ So, you pick up a handy bucket, and scoop up water from the stream. In the bucket, there is H2O, and in the stream and in the waterfall there is H2O. Water is vital for life, but something has been lost between the waterfall experience and the bucket. The bucket cannot collect the awe of the waterfall. It is an experience you’ll never forget, and yet you cannot name it, explain it, repeat it, or create it yourself.
In addition to supporting our patients, both venues will host Ayrshire Hospice fundraising events throughout their respective partnerships. As part of these partnerships, both organisations will collaborate to raise awareness of the vital services and care provided by the Ayrshire Hospice. They will also support the charity’s fundraising efforts through discretionary donations from guests at their accommodation and restaurant offerings. Gordon Anthony, General Manager of The Park Hotel, said: “The Park Hotel is proud to be a Charity Partner of the Ayrshire Hospice. We hope to raise awareness for this great charity and the incredible services they provide. We look forward to contributing to their fundraising efforts throughout the year.” Nic Oldham, General Manager at Trump Turnberry , added: “Partnering with the Ayrshire Hospice is a privilege for all of us at Trump
non-religious and religious, we seek to listen deeply to personal stories. Spiritual care is a place for sharing intangible experiences, and thoughts about life that we don’t easily share. For patients and their families, illnesses, suffering, and death are intensely meaningful events, events which make people think about life and their lives differently. For staff, the pressures of working in palliative care can be, at times, overwhelming, not least because they are carried alongside the everyday pressures of personal life. Offering a safe, confidential, and relaxed space, we are here to listen, and let you breathe.
It is a fleeting moment, an experience, which is small,
insignificant, and yet it has enriched your life immeasurably. In short, we are so much more than our biology, as important as biology is. Spiritual care attends to what lies within us: to our lived experiences, our thoughts not shared, memories good and less good, our achievements and failures, our hopes, fears, losses, and the many gifts, strengths, and blessings that shape who we are. We are here for patients, their families, and all our staff and volunteers. We are here to journey with you in an open, compassionate, non-judgemental, and affirming way. Inclusive of different and varied perspectives,
Turnberry. The Hospice’s incredible work in providing compassionate care and support to individuals and families across our community is deeply inspiring. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to making a meaningful difference, and we look forward to working together to support their vital mission.”
April 2025 | EDITION 39
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Christmas Super Draw
By Laura Macpherson, Volunteer Coordinator
At the Ayrshire Hospice, we host corporate volunteer experience days. As an organisation, we recognise the positive impact volunteering can have on employees, fostering stronger connections with their communities and co- workers. These events not only help improve job satisfaction but also cultivate supportive and inclusive working environments.
By Ron Swanson, Fundraising Manager
December was packed with festive cheer in the In-Patient Unit, thanks to some amazing groups who brought joy and laughter to our patients! Festive Fun in the In-Patient Unit
Congratulations to Jean Allan of Stewarton, who scooped the top prize of £3,000 in our Christmas Super Draw! We hope you enjoy spending your winnings, Jean! Congratulations also to all our other lucky Christmas Super Draw winners. A huge thank you to everyone who took part—your support helped raise almost £31,000! An amazing amount!
Robert and Lyle from Currie & Brown supported us with bucket collecting at Dobbies, Ayr. Their smiles say it all – a big thank you to these wonderful supporters and to Currie & Brown for allowing them to spend their Friday with us. Whether you’re deciding where to spend your corporate responsibility day or simply an
organisation looking to give back, we encourage you to consider volunteering with the Ayrshire Hospice.
For more information, please contact Laura Macpherson, Volunteer Coordinator, at volunteer@ayrshirehospice.org
A big thank you to the Brownies Choir, Kilmarnock FC players, St Patrick’s Primary Choir, Hannahston Alpacas – for making a special appearance at our Santa’s Grotto, Ayrshire Ukes, Robert Burns Academy, and Auchinleck Primary Choir for making the holidays extra special. Your support truly brightened everyone’s season!
Keep an eye out for our Summer Super
Draw later this year.
April 2025 | EDITION 39
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Capture the Secret Beauty of Ayrshire
Community coming together
By Elaine Thomson, Senior Fundraiser
Bobby Keen held another incredible community fundraising event in his hometown of Dreghorn, with the second annual ‘Croonfest’ at the Crown Inn, raising over £4,500 for the Ayrshire Hospice.
Enter the 2026 Calendar Competition
This year, the event, sponsored by Moogal Builders, featured a fantastic turnout of bands, singers, and DJs, bringing the community together for another sell-out gig. With this year’s success, the total raised by Croonfest over the past
two years has now surpassed £9,000 for the Ayrshire Hospice! A huge thank you to Bobby and everyone who supports this event, helping to make it the incredible success it is.
The much-loved competition for aspiring amateur photographers returns, offering them the opportunity to have one of their images featured in the Ayrshire Hospice 2026 calendar.
the overall winner. The winner will also be featured on the front of the calendar, giving them the opportunity to showcase their talent to a wide audience. A maximum of FOUR entries per person can be submitted during the submission window, which closes at 5pm on Friday 3rd May.
you interpret the theme, but we encourage creative and unique viewpoints. In an exciting update to this year’s competition, we are inviting entries from those aged 16 and over. Any budding photographers under the age of 18 will need their parents or guardians’ permission to enter. Please see the terms and conditions for more information. A judging panel will carefully review all entries and select
Respite & Response lead the way
For the full terms and conditions of entry,
please visit www. ayrshirehospice. org
Our Respite and Response team consists of experienced Care Assistants who support families in keeping their loved ones at home for as long as possible. The team is passionate and dedicated to ensuring that everyone they visit receives the very best care.
The title for the Ayrshire Hospice 2026 Calendar Competition is ‘Secret Ayrshire’. The theme is open to your personal interpretation, but we’re looking for stunning photographs that uncover the hidden gems of Ayrshire and Arran. Whether it’s a secluded spot off the beaten track or a fresh and rare perspective of a well-known location, we want to see the secret beauty of the region. Photos can be taken during any season - Spring, Summer, Autumn, or Winter - and may feature landscapes (urban or rural), wildlife, or agriculture. It’s up to you how
12 images to be featured in the 2026 calendar. From these, the overall winner will be voted for by attendees of the Ayrshire Hospice Living Well Hubs.
In addition, Yvonne, another of our Care Assistants, has supported the team in creating comfort packs. These packs ensure that personal care can be provided for patients who are struggling to access basic hygiene essentials. This additional support significantly enhances the person’s well-being and has made a huge difference to those receiving it.
This care includes mouth care, which is a crucial aspect as a person’s health declines. Poor mouth care can impact their ability to swallow, speak, maintain self-esteem, and even affect their relationships with loved ones. Joanne, a Care Assistant within the R&R Team, lead on a project to develop mouth care packs that include essential items, along with a leaflet explaining how to carry out
mouth care. The packs have been very well received, saving families time and reducing the stress of trips to the pharmacy. They also help to educate and empower families to become more involved in the care process. The feedback so far has been truly heartwarming, and it’s clear to see the positive difference these packs have made to everyone who has received them.
The competition is once again sponsored by Robert Griffiths of Vennal Cameras in Ayr, who has
generously provided a £150 voucher for
April 2025 | EDITION 39
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Tree of Remembrance
A Blossoming Success
By Claire Stuart-Paulin, Senior Fundraiser
For the fourth year running, the Rotary Club of Ayr organised their beautiful Tree of Remembrance on Ayr High Street in December. For the 10 days before Christmas, our amazing staff and volunteers joined forces with members of the Rotary, Ayrshire Cancer Support, and Whiteleys Retreat to man the tree. The weather was dreich but it was worth it to meet and thank all the wonderfully generous people visiting Ayr for their donations. Each charity has received £2,200 and we would like to thank the marvellous members of the Rotary in Ayr for their continued support.
By Lucy Glendinning, Senior Fundraiser
Since their launch in August last year, our Roses to Remember—beautifully handcrafted copper roses—have already raised over £5,000 in support of patient and family care.
The team is delighted by the warm response from our community and extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who has donated so far. Your generosity is truly appreciated. Every Rose to Remember is unique, just like the individual it honours. All funds raised help support our vital palliative care services, ensuring we can continue
providing compassionate care to those who need it most.
If you’d like to donate towards a Rose to Remember and support the Ayrshire Hospice, visit www.ayrshirehospice.org, call 01292 288 488, or email donate@ayrshirehospice.org
The Hospice’s Clinical Educator recently attended Highland Hospice to train as a facilitator for the ‘Last Aid’ course. What is ‘Last Aid’? Introducing ‘Last Aid’ A Course to Support End-of-Life Care
‘Believe you can and you are halfway there’
Theodore Roosevelt 26th US President
down barriers and encourages open conversations. The course aims to help people plan for the future, access the right resources at the right time, and confidently recognise and respond to individual end-of-life care needs. This interactive and engaging four- hour course covers the following topics: • Dying as a normal process • Planning ahead • Relieving suffering • Final goodbyes
Anyone can take part, but it is particularly beneficial for those supporting people at the end of life, helping to make a meaningful difference in their final months. If you are interested in joining a course, please scan the QR code to register for more information.
We all recognise the importance of First Aid courses in saving and supporting lives in an emergency, but what if you found yourself caring for someone approaching the end of their life? Is there a course to help you understand their needs and provide care with confidence? ‘Last Aid’ is a public awareness course designed to enhance confidence in discussing and approaching end-of-life care. Talking about death and dying can be difficult—often seen as a taboo subject—but this course helps break
Check out some of our amazing challenges for 2025 and make this the year YOU believed.
Whatever your motivation; celebrating a life milestone, ticking off your bucket list or simply wanting to give back, there is a challenge that suits everyone.
Scan me!
April 2025 | EDITION 39
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Show your support for the Ayrshire Hospice by joining us at one of our fantastic events this year—whether with family, friends, or colleagues! Ayrshire Hospice upcoming EVENTS
Run the Runway raises £150,000!
By Elaine Thomson, Senior Fundraiser
Ayrshire Hospice Golf Day
Monday 11th August > West Kilbride Golf Club Take on the challenge of West Kilbride’s stunning links course while enjoying a fantastic day of golf with friends, colleagues, or family! Start the day with a breakfast roll, tea, and coffee before heading out for the Texas Scramble competition. After sinking your final putt, relax in the clubhouse with a well- earned meal and refreshment.
It was an incredible sight watching 1,000 runners take to the runway at Glasgow Prestwick Airport on a cold, sunny November morning, raising £150,000 for three charities, including the Ayrshire Hospice.
back. It’s deeply moving to see the event’s impact as these funds go toward helping so many people. “Too many of us have personally experienced cancer and others have lost loved ones to the disease, and this event was a chance to make a meaningful difference in their memory.”
The Ayrshire Hospice was delighted to be part of such a unique and
iconic event, alongside charities Doing it for Daniel and The Beatson Cancer Charity. With 1000 participants either walking or running 5k or 10k across the two runways, they were cheered along by hundreds of volunteers and songs from Rock Choir. The event also received support and sponsorship from LAML Airfield Contractors . Airport CEO Ian Forgie said: “Run the Runway 2024 has been a celebration of resilience, togetherness, and giving
Fourball team entry is £500.
Autumn Ball 2025
Friday 26th September > Seamill Hydro Hotel
Our much-loved Autumn Ball returns for another night of fun and fundraising! Your hilarious host, Edward Reid, will keep you entertained with his wit, occasional songs, and a few surprises. Enjoy a delicious three-course meal before hitting the dance floor with live music to keep you dancing all night long!
It was a privilege to be part of this event, and we are incredibly grateful to all the staff and participants for their support of the Hospice and other charities.
Tickets are £ 90 per person and tables can seat up to 10 guests . Smaller parties are welcomed and may be seated together.
Last year our collecting cans raised an amazing £19,200.16
To book any of these fantastic events, visit our website, call our Fundraising Team on 01292 288488 or email events@ayrshirehospice.org
If you could place a can at your place of work, local pub or takeaway venue, please reach out to our fundraising team. Every penny does count! Email: community@ayrshirehospice.org Call: 01292 288 488
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2024 was a busy year for Mitchell Lamont, who completed six challenges to raise an incredible £2,800! Mitchell’s year of fundraising! By Elaine Thomson, Senior Fundraiser
Keeping it in the family
Welcoming home our volunteers By Laura Macpherson
By Laura Macpherson, Volunteer Coordinator
Douglas Robertson’s decision to become a volunteer at the Ayrshire Hospice was truly a family affair. He has been volunteering for over a year with our Living Well Hubs as a volunteer driver, joining other members of his family in giving their time to us.
something we appreciated more than words can describe. My family will be forever grateful to the staff at the Hospice.” Watch out for what he gets up to in 2025 - he isn’t finished yet!
Kicking off the year with the Manchester Marathon, he then took on the Edinburgh Half Marathon, Run the Blades (50K), shaved his head, tackled the River Ayr Way Ultramarathon (65K), and finally rounded off the year with Run the Runway at Prestwick Airport in November! Friends and family were a huge support, with long-time friends Joe and Lewis running alongside him to keep him on track. Adding last year’s total to his epic Great Wall of China Challenge in 2016, Mitchell has now raised an incredible £8,800 for the Hospice .
“The reason I chose to raise money for the Hospice is because they were there for my family when we needed it most. In 2016, when my mum was losing her battle with cancer, she was moved to the Hospice for end-of-life care, and the Hospice did everything they could to make sure that she was well looked after day and night, as well as providing my family accommodation in the Hospice so we could be close by her at all times. Having this facility available gave us the ability to be there for my mum until the very end, and it’s
We recently hosted a ‘Welcome Home’ celebration for our
In his own words, Douglas shares how and why he got into volunteering: “I was retired and looking for something to do to get me out of the house and contribute to a worthy and meaningful cause. I saw the advert for a volunteer driver, and it ticked all the boxes for me. I wanted a role that didn’t have too much responsibility, that I could do on a regular basis but wasn’t too demanding on my time. The Ayrshire Hospice is an excellent organisation—some of my family members have volunteered there in various capacities over the years— so it seemed like a good fit for me. “What makes it so rewarding is knowing you are making a positive difference to someone’s life. My help is always appreciated, and I can see how important the Hubs are. They give people the opportunity to meet their friends and have meaningful social interactions. It’s also nice to be a light in these generally troubled and often dark-feeling days. “What advice would I give new volunteers? I cannot think of a better way to spend a few hours of your time than giving back to people who truly appreciate your
returning volunteers, some of whom have been with us for decades. These volunteers have gifted us with their expertise and skills and are ready to get involved again as we are getting ready to return to Racecourse Road very soon. After a warm introduction and presentation from Ayrshire Hospice Chief Executive Tracy Flynn, our volunteers got the opportunity to reminisce about times gone by and to also look to the future and all the memories yet to be made. Thank you to the Balgarth Pines who generously donated their beautiful function suite as well as tea, coffee and delicious cakes on the day.
contribution. I will continue to volunteer my time to the Ayrshire Hospice and all the sterling work they do.”
Douglas’ experience highlights the impact a volunteer can have on our patients’ lives. If volunteering is something that interests you and you’d like to find out more, please email volunteer@ayrshirehospice. org or visit www.ayrshirehospice. org/volunteer
Should you be interested in volunteering at the Ayrshire Hospice, visit www.ayrshirehospice.org or scan the QR to find out more
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Charity of the Year
RETAIL DETAIL
By Claire Stuart-Paulin, Senior Fundraiser
Over the past few months, the Ayrshire Hospice has made some exciting changes within its retail team.
kind, and we couldn’t be prouder to support such an amazing cause. The generosity of our customers and team all plays a massive part in us successfully raising vital funds and we look forward to supporting the Ayrshire Hospice for years to come.” The shop fundraises in many ways including donating 5p per carrier bag and 1p per swipe of loyalty card. But the staff don’t stop at that, they love to join in with Go Purple and regularly have raffles and tombolas which their customers thrive on getting involved with. Their grand total is over £5,000 to date and they have lots more planned. Thank you to all the staff and customers for their continued support and generosity.
Prestwick Jillian Plunkett is the Shop Manager in Prestwick and has worked for the Hospice for almost three years. She loves the connection with the local community in Prestwick, and previously in Mauchline, where she was the shop manager.
Kilmarnock Julie Grier & Babs – Julie has been working for the
Hospice for nearly two years, having previously managed the Kilwinning shop. She came to the organisation with years of experience in the charity retail sector. Julie successfully ran the
Jillian has a passion for helping customers find the perfect outfit at a fraction of the retail cost and creating vibrant, eye-catching
Kilwinning shop and has now moved to Kilmarnock with her Duty Manager, Helen, to continue increasing sales and introducing innovative ideas. Good luck, Julie and Helen! Regional Manager Gerry Rooney has recently joined the
The Original Factory Shop in Stewarton have chosen the Ayrshire Hospice as their ‘Charity of the Year’ for the past four years.
displays that help the donations we receive from supporters stand out.
You’ll usually find Jillian buzzing around, chatting with customers or helping her dedicated team of volunteers sort stock in the back shop. Pop in and say hello to Jillian and the team! Girvan Bernie Wason has worked for the Hospice for around three years and has invaluable experience in retail. Until recently, Bernie was the Assistant Manager in Girvan before being promoted to Manager in recognition of her passion and hard work in the shop and the Girvan community.
It’s typical for the stores to choose a different charity each year, but the staff were blown away with the reaction and generosity of their customers during their first year of fundraising.
Beth Gillies, Store Manager said: “We chose to support the Ayrshire Hospice as we all know someone who has had to rely on them for help when a loved one is sick. The work the Hospice does is one of a
Hospice retail team after 30 years in large retail formats, including Area Manager roles.
In his role at the Hospice, Gerry finds the work very rewarding and enjoys meeting the fantastic volunteers and staff, all working towards our core purpose.
Winter Fair Success!
Back in November, over 2,000 guests walked through the doors of Ayr Racecourse and contributed to an incredible record-breaking total of £28,124.84!
and extra festive fun was provided by the incredible Santa’s Grotto, the Kilted DJ, Ayrshire College Gingerbread Decorating, and a Special Children’s Book Reading by Greta Yorke. To complete the fabulous day, the Rapid Relief Team provided a delicious BBQ, enjoyed by all. Make sure you save the date for this year’s Winter Fair, taking place on Saturday, 15th November 2025, at Ayr Racecourse.
Gerry hopes to grow the retail operation and expand our online offering, helping to support people in Ayrshire who need palliative and end-of-life care.
Sponsored by Game Vault and Macklin Motors, the day was a roaring success from start to finish. Guests were greeted by the fabulous Hannahston Alpacas before beginning their shopping experience with over 100 stalls to choose from. Entertainment from Heathfield Primary School and Dalrymple Ukulele Orchestra filled the room with Christmas spirit,
Cumnock Kerry Cassidy has worked for the Hospice for several years as an Assistant Manager in Troon and has been successfully promoted to Shop Manager in Cumnock. Kerry’s flair for fashion and customer service will be a great boost to the Cumnock shop and its community.
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Ayrshire Hospice fundraising superstar Rikki Black recently reached a major milestone, raising £178,000 for the Hospice. With gift aid, this will take him over the £200,000 mark! Superstar reaches over £178,000! Fundraising By Elaine Thomson, Senior Fundraiser
to all of our amazing Community Fundraisers
Shaun Mclardy Stroll the Rob Roy Way May 2024 £4,417.00 ..................... Ayrshire Young Masons Various fundraising June 2024 £2,000.00 ..................... Ladies Section Seafield Golf Club Golf day June 2024 £1,500.00 ..................... Ayrshire Bridge Centre Prestwick Cafe Bridge event June 2024 £1,720.00 ..................... Aqua Fabrications Ltd Golf Day June 2024 £2,000.00 ..................... McDonald’s - Armour Street in Kilmarnock Fundraising throughout the year June 2024 £1,198.62 ..................... Janet Robertson River Ayr Walk with friends Tracy & Stacey June 2024 £908.00 ..................... Anne Brown Summer Gala Day June 2024 £407.00 ..................... Melanie Robson Walk in aid of Ayrshire Hospice July 2024 £935.00 ..................... Park Dean Music Night July 2024 £375.54
Cheryll and Alasdair Cameron Scotlands Garden Scheme - 60% from entry fee July 2024 £186.00 ..................... Mark Long 1,000,000 steps in August August 2024 £4,324.00 ..................... Leigh Kelly her brother Dean Skydive in St Andrew’s August 2024 £2,395.00 ..................... Austin Cooke Cycle round Ireland August 2024 £2,513.00 ..................... ..................... Joanna Urqhuart Remembrance lunch for Cassie McPhail August 2024 £315.00 ..................... Kiera Jones 3 peak climb - Ben Nevis, Ben Macdui and Breariach August 2024 £235.00 ..................... Ann Cumming In lieu of gifts August 2024 £997.50 ..................... Alec Anderson Veteran’s Golf Society Golf Day September 2024 £636.00 ..................... Gregor Stewart Rat Race September 2024 £1,640.00 Dirrans Centre Sponsored walk August 2024 £759.00
David Scott LAP Ultra Marathon - Windermere September 2024 £225.00 ..................... Colin Convery The Shrek Trek 4 8.04km by whatever means possible September 2024 £410.00 ..................... Isobel Millar Karaoke night at Blacks Bar September 2024 £3,947.51 ..................... Ross Fisher Fundraising dinner with raffle and auction September 2024 £7,105.00 ..................... True Fitness 24 hour rowing challenge September 2024 £7,468.14 ..................... Dorothy Kippen Raffled 2 teddies at Kidsneuk Ladies Golf Club October 2024 £317.22 ..................... Toni McClymont - I Love Gifts (Kilmarnock) Shop raffle October 2024 £525.00 ..................... Amy McIver Race Night at The Park Hotel October 2024 £1350.00
Jim Hair In lieu of gifts - birthday October 2024 £1,000.00 ..................... Alastair McLeish European Race - Scottish Idiots Abroad 2024 October 2024 £1,035.00 ..................... Tarbolton Parish Church A night with Ayr Amateur Opera Company October 2024 £844.35 ..................... Hannah Coombs Hyrox Birmingham 2024 October 2024 £245.00 ..................... Jeanette Thomson Selling hand crafted gifts at her local church fair October 2024 £1,531.00 ..................... Gemma Reid 12 challenges throughout the year (Mar - Oct 2024) October 2024 £1,040.00 ..................... Martin Spiers Walked 3 miles a day in October October 2024 £400.00 ..................... The Wee Windaes Halloween Party Night November 2024 £313.25 ..................... Dunlop Friends Group Craft Fair at Dunlop Village Hall November 2024 £3,819.85
Margaret Goodlad In lieu of gifts - birthday November 2024 £150.00 ..................... Heather Gregory Hoedown Charity Event November 2024 £1,414.00 ..................... Suzanne Taggart Swish Party November 2024 £377.00 ..................... Davy Sandilands Rock ‘n’ Roll Dance November 2024 £450.00 ..................... Nicky Davies UWCB Crawley - charity boxing match November 2024 £496.00 ..................... Iona Fulton Braving the shave November 2024 £3,894.00 ..................... M. Farren Ltd Pharmacy ..................... Caroline Lorimer Christmas Carol Concert - Kirkmichael Church December 2024 £780.00 ..................... McDonald’s Kimarnock - Bellfield Christmas party afternoon December 2024 £665.50 ..................... Coffee Morning December 2024 £400.00
Bryson Tractors Christmas Jumper Day & Bake Sale December 2024 £150.22 ..................... Ayr Rugby Football Club Under 14s Santa Dash 5K December 2024 £820.00 ..................... Helen Flanagan Various fundraising in Girvan with her daughter Maria Slaven and family throughout the year. December 2024 £4,000.00 ..................... Jack’s Corner Poor brickie fund December 2024 £130.00 ..................... Derek Montgomery Various raffles and auctions of signed football memorabilia throughout the year December 2024 £3,077.10 ..................... Anna Yeudall Sold handmade cards throughout the year December 2024 £1000.00 ..................... Mary’s Fairies Sold handmade fairies throughout the year December 2024 £1,000.00
the years, and we look forward to supporting him as he continues his fundraising journey.
Known for his fundraising efforts as Team Golfathon, Rikki has raised funds effortlessly over the past 12 years with the support of his friends, family, and local community. Team Golfathon has hosted sportsman’s brunches, balls, taken part in Kiltwalks, run marathons,
organised raffles, and more recently, played golf from dusk till dawn to get as many rounds in as possible at his local club, Bogside Golf Club in Irvine. Rikki also helps Santa deliver gifts to his Christmas raffle winners each year. We can’t thank him enough for his hard work and dedication over
Wear purple, eat purple, be purple!
Small Talk Café Christmas raffle December 2024 £542.00
If you’d like to fundraise for the Ayrshire Hospice and receive your free fundraising pack and purple t-shirt , we’d love to hear from you!
Call us on 01292 288 488 or email community@ayrshirehospice.org If you don’t see your community fundraiser listed here, you will be featured in a future issue of The Article.
Sign up online for your FREE fundraising pack
April 2025 | EDITION 39
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Help us make a difference... £20.00 could provide Kodak photo paper for our printer, allowing patients to create lasting memories by having photos taken with their loved ones during their stay. £50.00 could contribute towards an evening complementary therapy session in our In-Patient Unit, helping a patient relax and settle for a more restful sleep. £100.00 could help support haircare services in our on-site hairdressing salon for the week, offering patients comfort and a boost to their well-being during their stay in our In-Patient Unit.
£150.00 could help provide a wheelchair for use at any of the Living Well Hubs, ensuring accessibility and comfort for all participants during their sessions.
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Gift Aid your donation! It will boost your donation by 25p for every £1 you donate. Gift Aid is reclaimed by Ayrshire Hospice from the tax you pay for the current tax year. Your address is needed to allow us to identify you as a current UK taxpayer. In order to Gift Aid your donation, you must tick the box below: I want to Gift Aid any donations I make in the future or have made in the past 4 years to Ayrshire Hospice. I am a UK taxpayer and understand that if I pay less Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax than the amount of Gift Aid claimed on all my donations in that tax year, it is my responsibility to pay any difference. Please notify us if you want to cancel this declaration, change your name or home address or no longer pay sufficient tax on your income and/or capital gains. If you pay Income Tax at the higher or additional rate and want to receive the additional tax relief due to you, you must include all your Gift Aid donations on your Self-Assessment tax return or ask HM Revenue & Customs to adjust your tax code.
Please return this donation form to our Fundraising Office at 29 Miller Road, Ayr, KA7 2AX. Thank you for your support! Please return this donation form to our Fundraising Office at 35-37 Racecourse Road, Ayr, KA7 2TG. Thank you for your support!
Registered Scottish Charity No: SC011390
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