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.
February 15th, 1989, is a date that will be forever remembered as the day when the Ayrshire Hospice opened its doors at Number 35 Racecourse Road, Ayr, to offer palliative and end-of-life care to a community that had worked tirelessly to make the hospice dream a reality.
Over the ensuing three decades, the Racecourse Road site has expanded to meet the increased demand for palliative and end-of-life care, in addition to providing facilities for those who deliver this vital care. As the organisation marks its 35th year, the substantial redevelopment work of the
Capital Build Project, costing in excess of £18 million, will ensure the legacy of the Ayrshire Hospice for generations to come. The redeveloped facilities will form an environment that is spacious, light, comfortable, safe and dignified for the people who need it.
The story of the Ayrshire Hospice is one of care and compassion, delivered by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers. Continued on page 2 >>
ayrshirehospice.org
April 2024 | EDITION 36
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Capital Build Project update...
By Tracy Flynn, Chief Executive Officer
By Julia Connelly, Capital Build Project Manager
It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to the latest edition of The Article. Within these pages, you’ll discover a narrative woven with the essence of our Hospice community—a collective journey marked by resilience, compassion, and shared experiences.
After reaching the ‘topping out’ milestone of the Project—marking the completion of our steel superstructure—work on our Racecourse Road site continues at a rapid pace. Progress on the roof and oculus is well underway. Alongside a series of skylights, the oculus, a stunning round glass roof feature, will bathe the main circulation space of the In-Patient Unit in natural light. Moreover, the oculus will lend a sculptural quality to the interior, serving not only as a skylight but also as a central aesthetic feature of the building.
Embark with us on the unfolding narrative of our Capital Build Project. It is more than bricks and mortar; it is a transformative journey redefining our cherished home at Racecourse Road, Ayr. Each development is a step toward a future that reflects our commitment to progress and exceptional care. Venture into the world of our dedicated clinical teams with an overview of all the latest happenings in our In-Patient Unit, along with an update on our Community Nursing Team. In the spirit of shared stories, we present Emma’s as part of our Spring Appeal. In Emma’s own words, you’ll glimpse the profound impact of the support offered by the Ayrshire Hospice team during challenging times. Creativity takes centre stage with our Photography Competition. Capture the beauty of Ayrshire throughout the seasons, and your artistry could be featured in our 2025 calendar! Explore the various amazing endeavours that have taken place as part of our ongoing Fundraising, and the exciting events awaiting us in 2024—a testament to the collective efforts that sustain our mission. The heartbeat of our community also echoes through our Retail network; discover the story of one of our volunteers and all the updates from our shops. Finally, your unwavering support ensures that we continue to make a positive impact on the lives of those we serve. Together, we are weaving a story of compassion, resilience, and community spirit.
How our Capital Build Project will improve our patient experience Hear from Andrew, Chair of our Capital Project Governance Committee and Julia, our Capital Build Project Manager about the benefits our redeveloped facilities will bring to patients and their loved ones.
Mechanical and electrical sub-contractors are now on site, advancing towards a ‘first-fix’ of services, establishing, among other things, the initial electrical supply to our rooms. Additionally, the Capital Build Project Team is actively reviewing contractor design proposal packages, encompassing various areas such as sprinklers and piped oxygen.
Scan the QR code to view a time lapse film of our progress on site to date!
Thank you for being an integral part of the Ayrshire Hospice story.
Scan the QR code to view
Celebrating 35 Years at Number 35! Continued from page 1
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over 30 years, providing her skills, passion and support in Ayrshire Hospice shops and the Fundraising office. Barbara works alongside fellow volunteers in a variety of disciplines, continuing to help the Hospice team deliver exceptional, compassionate care and support throughout the communities of Ayrshire and Arran.
More than just a building, the completed work later this year will yield a facility that not only helps in the delivery of care for patients and their families but, more importantly, ensures that they will have the space, privacy and support to make every moment together matter. The success of the Ayrshire Hospice is built upon the tremendous support of the Ayrshire
and Arran community. Since the community first came together in 1983 to establish a Trust for hospice fundraising, their dedication has been unwavering, and continues today through a volunteer network that supports various functions of the Hospice. That network includes supporters like Barbara Graham, who has volunteered for the Hospice for
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April 2024 | EDITION 36
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Celebrating the role of our Patient Experience Volunteers and their impact during their first 12 months
The Calendar Competition is BACK!
By Kirsty Cornwall, Quality Improvement Facilitator
The Ayrshire Hospice is delighted to announce the return of its popular photography competition this Spring. After a four-year hiatus, the much- loved competition for aspiring amateur photographers returns, offering them the opportunity to have one of their images featured in the Ayrshire Hospice 2025 calendar. This year’s theme is ‘Celebrating Ayrshire through the Seasons’, and the judging panel is seeking the finest image that showcase our region throughout Spring, Summer, Autumn, or Winter. The competition continues to receive fantastic support from Robert at Vennal Cameras, who will sponsor the competition and provide the overall winner with a £150 voucher. Gwenda Burns, Strategic Lead for Income Generation and Partnerships, commented: ....................... “We’re thrilled to bring back the Photography competition, and we’re eagerly anticipating everyone’s entries.
By Ron Swanson, Fundraising Manager
During 2023, our patient experience volunteer team grew in numbers, and now consists of three experienced individuals committed to helping ensure the views of our patients and families are heard and used to inform decisions about our services. Between January and December 2023, the views of 111 patients and carers who use our services were captured via face-to-face conversations, telephone calls and focus groups.
A partnership with the Ayrshire Hospice could be highly beneficial for your business. It not only engages your staff but also provides valuable volunteering opportunities, fostering teambuilding. Moreover, a partnership allows both your business and the Hospice to explore innovative opportunities beyond financial contributions. Your business has the potential to make a heartfelt difference. Regardless of your organisation’s size or the amount of money you can pledge to raise, your support will significantly impact local individuals living with life- limiting illnesses and their families. If your colleagues or company would be interested in supporting us , please contact Ron on 01292 288488 or email donate@ayrshirehospice.org and let’s see how we can work together.
Topics they have explored have included:
• The Ayrshire Hospice Community Nursing service
• The experience of being in the In-Patient Unit (IPU), including the environment, staff and food
• The ward round process
“Our calendar is a popular item in our shops each year, and it’s truly special to have our supporters contribute their stunning
The judging panel will select the 12 best images for next year’s calendar, with the overall winner’s photograph gracing the calendar’s cover. Additionally, the winner will receive the £150 voucher to spend at Vennal Cameras in Ayr. Full details on how to enter, the closing date, and more can be found at ayrshirehospice.org
• Respite stays in the IPU
• ReSPECT (ReSPECT stands for Recommended Summary Plan for Emergency Care and Treatment. The ReSPECT process creates a summary of personalised recommendations for a person’s clinical care in a future emergency in which they do not have capacity to make or express choices.)
photography to it.” ....................... If you are an enthusiastic
• The Complementary Therapy service
photographer or simply someone who loves capturing the beauty of Ayrshire, submit a maximum of four of your finest shots to enter. Whether you’re grabbing your camera or phone to seize that perfect Ayrshire scene right now or digging through your archive of past seasons’ pictures, get snapping and get ready to submit your entries when the submission window opens in May.
• The Living Well Hubs and FABS (Fatigue, Anxiety, Activity Pacing, Breathlessness, Spirituality and Sleep) clinic The volunteers are involved throughout the process, firstly checking that the questions patients and carers are asked are worded in a non-clinical manner – it’s well known that we can use too many acronyms in healthcare! The feedback is then collated and reported back to the relevant service leads. This allows managers to receive honest feedback from the people using the service to help them understand where the service is performing well, in addition to any opportunities for improvement. 2024 is set to be just as busy, with the next areas of focus being the counselling service and physiotherapy out-patient’s clinic.
Scan for more information
April 2024 | EDITION 36
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Caring in the community
By Susie Chamberlain, Lead Practitioner Community Nursing
consultants in palliative care, covering the length and breadth of Ayrshire and Arran. They support patients diagnosed with a life- limiting illness, and their families. Today, with more patients wishing to remain in their own environment, the community team is expanding to meet this need and have welcomed two new community palliative care nurses who will support the Specialist Palliative Care Nursing team, which is also expanding with two new starts. This brings the total number of specialist nurses in the community team to ten, with five working in the South and East Ayrshire and five within North and East. Each is assigned to a geographical area based upon GP surgeries, allowing them to build professional relationships with GP, district nursing and social work teams.
The Respite and Response team, comprised of ten highly skilled care assistants, also forms part of our community team. Their role also centres around patient and family support, providing both respite and personal care in response to changes in a patient’s condition, thereby avoiding hospital admission. A significant part of their role is also in facilitating compassionate discharge from hospital. Without their input, patients may have to wait until a package of care is in place, resulting in precious time spent in hospital when their preference is to be at home. ....................... And as the Hospice works on returning to Racecourse Road, the Community team is excited to watch how the will team grow and develop during 2024 to meet the needs of the Ayrshire community.
The Ayrshire Lads visit IPU
Patients and staff in the In-Patient Unit were treated to a visit from the Ayrshire Lads, who took time out from their performances at The Gaiety Theatre in February.
The McDonald Brothers and Jai McDowall popped in to spend some time chatting with everyone. Ayrshire Hospice Chief Executive Tracy Flynn welcomed the lads and gave them a tour of the In-Patient Unit, currently located in East Ayrshire Community Hospital. The boys shared a laugh and joke with patients and their families, as well as signing some autographs.
Throughout 2023, the Ayrshire Hospice
Community team assisted over 1300 patients in their own homes, managing complex symptoms and providing much-needed support and reassurance. The Ayrshire Hospice’s Community team is comprised of specialist nurses, care assistants and
The Ayrshire Hospice Living Well team run twice weekly Tai Chi classes to support patients’ physical and mental wellness. These classes are designed for people known to the Ayrshire Hospice. Team members Fiona Brodlie and Christine McLean will welcome you to the online class on Fridays at 11 am, while Claire looks forward to seeing you in person at the Kyle Ward, Ailsa Hospital, on Tuesdays at 10 am. Discover the ancient art of Tai Chi, a vibrant journey towards holistic well-being. Immerse yourself in slow, flowing movements and embrace the power of deep, controlled breathing. With each session, Tai Chi brings harmony to your mind and body, enhancing balance, flexibility, and muscle strength. Suitable for all fitness levels and ages, our virtual and in-person Tai Chi classes are your gateway to a gentle yet effective path to physical and mental wellness. Join us for the rejuvenating experience, followed by a cuppa and friendly chat. Living Well delivers Tai Chi
IT ALL ADDS UP
By Emily Janes, Fundraiser
Donations from loose change raised an impressive £14,752.60 for the Hospice last year! These contributions help support the delivery of exceptional palliative and end- of-life care throughout the Ayrshire and Arran community While times have changed in the world with ‘contactless’ payments, the annual collection can round-up has proven that cash is still around. The Fundraising team recently visited some of our long-running collection can venues to say thank you. A huge shout out to Andrew Peden, Dee Dees Cutz and Keystore (Mount Oliphant) who raised some of the biggest totals from collection cans for last year. Every penny counts, so thank you to everyone who pops their spare change into our collection cans around Ayrshire and Arran. If your business or organisation would like to help add to the total for 2024 and take one of the collection cans, please contact the Fundraising team on 01292 288 488 or email community@ ayrshirehospice.org
Ready to embark on this uplifting Tai Chi adventure? Then, please get in touch with any staff member of the Hospice team or email livingwell@ayrshirehospice.org
April 2024 | EDITION 36
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Thanking Living Well Hub volunteers
Milestone Marvels £50,000 and Counting!
By Claire Stuart-Paulin, Senior Fundraiser
By Heather Hardie, Lead Practitioner
And Helen’s daughter and son-in-law, Maria and John, joined in the fun. Helen took charge of baking, while Maria and John were the top sellers at local gala days. Sadly, John died from pancreatic cancer, but the awe-inspiring duo continued fundraising in his memory. ....................... For years, Maria was a regular at car boot sales, but when Covid struck, she changed her approach,
In 2019, Jamie was diagnosed with bowel cancer, discovered after he submitted his bowel screening kit. However, with a quick diagnosis and treatment, he received the all-clear. This has motivated John to encourage everyone use their screening kits, as it saved his life.
The Living Well team recently gathered to express gratitude to its collective of volunteers, who play a vital role in helping deliver the Living Well Hubs across various locations in Ayrshire. This marked the first time the volunteers had been together since before the Covid pandemic, making it a delightful afternoon of catching up and reacquainting with old friends. Volunteers support staff at the Hubs in various ways, including providing transport, contributing their skills and hobbies to the groups, and simply lending an ear for a chat with patients.
Helen, Maria, and John are continuing their incredible
fundraising efforts this year. With their local community’s support, we are confident they will continue to achieve their personal annual target of £3,000. Thank you, Helen, Maria, and Jamie, for your ongoing hard work and dedication to the Ayrshire Hospice.
If you can spare a couple of hours a week and are interested, you too can support our Living Well Hubs. To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Heather via email at heather.hardie@ayrshirehospice.org
Helen Flanagan and her daughter Maria Slaven have been on a fundraising journey for the Hospice since 2000, and in December they reached a major milestone in raising over £50,000 for the Ayrshire Hospice.
Occupations Matter to Living Well
and began selling on Ebay to raise money for the Hospice. Helen also embraced Shoppix, converting everyday shopping receipts into vouchers. Every pound Maria saves with these vouchers is generously donated to the Hospice. ....................... When Maria remarried, her second husband, Jamie, wanted to get involved. He started making his famous tablet and this year recruited local business, The New Cafe Royale in Girvan, to sell it for them.
The Occupational Therapy service enjoyed a magical day at the Ayrshire Hospice Winter Fair, showcasing beautiful creative occupations that had been handmade and kindly donated by patients attending Living Well Services, raising an amazing £515. You might be wondering, ‘What are occupations to live well?’ In the context of Occupational Therapy, ‘occupations’ are the core building blocks of life. They encompass more than just work or paid employment; occupations include any activities that are important to us, things that we need, want or enjoy doing.
Occupational deprivation or disruption to living well is often experienced due to life-changing circumstances, illness, or disability, which can, in turn, impact physical and mental health and well-being. Occupational Therapy practice is centred on your well-being, extending beyond mere diagnosis and limitations to focus on your ability to achieve hopes and aspirations by engaging in activities that matter to you. This involves looking at the relationship between your daily activities, alongside the challenges you experience and your environment, to create goals, activities and a realistic plan. The aim is to support you to experience living well in the way that aligns with your individual values and preferences.
When they popped into our Fundraising Office to hand over their annual donation in December, it was a special
Jamie also hosts an amazing model Christmas Village which he sets up in their home every December. The lights, moving elements and festive music make it a magical experience for everyone who visits, and donations are generously handed over.
occasion as it brought their total fundraising to a whopping £51,070! Helen inherited her passion for fundraising from her mum. When Helen’s mother passed away, she carried on the family tradition, commencing her fundraising efforts for the Hospice.
April 2024 | EDITION 36
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Special Christmas Visitors to the In-Patient Uni t
Since 1983, when a small group of locals from the Ayrshire community first united with a goal of establishing a hospice for Ayrshire, the Ayrshire Hospice has consistently had the support of its people. With that help from the community, the Hospice has been at the forefront of providing palliative and end-of-life care for those in need across Ayrshire and Arran ever since. A legacy for generations to come...
Alpacas from Little Peru near Crosshill
Six years after that inaugural meeting in 1983 , the Hospice opened its doors at 35 Racecourse Road in Ayr and has continued to expand to meet the needs of its community. Families from across Ayrshire and Arran have benefitted from the care and services provided both in the In-Patient Unit and throughout the community, ensuring comfort and support for their loved ones. The Ayrshire Hospice is more than just a building. When families are touched by a life-limiting illness and are supported by the Ayrshire Hospice care team, they will tell you about the level of care their loved ones received, the support and counselling offered to them during an extremely challenging time, and the profoundly positive, lasting impact it had on them. ....................... Emma’s story serves as a touching reminder of the lasting impact of the care that the Hospice provides to its patients and their families.
Sixteen years after her Gran died within the care of the Ayrshire Hospice in 2008, Emma can still recall in great detail her time visiting her Gran in the In- Patient Unit, the staff who took the time to speak with her and make her feel valued, and the support provided to help her cope with grief as a young child. In delivering palliative and end- of-life care, the Ayrshire Hospice care team understands that there is only one chance to get it right. The Hospice care team are privileged to be invited by patients and families into their lives to support them during the most challenging of times. When children are involved in the encompassing care that the Ayrshire Hospice team delivers, there is a real opportunity to positively shape young lives. The value of grief work alone can be felt for days, months, and years afterwards, and the impact can be both formative and life changing. Read more about Emma’s story overleaf.
Today, in 2024, the Ayrshire Hospice is undergoing a redevelopment costing in excess of £18 million, which will deliver a facility which sets a new standard of excellence, and one that the community of Ayrshire and Arran will be proud to call their own. Your help and support are contributing to ensuring these facilities endure for the next 35 years and beyond, enabling families like Emma’s to experience the same lasting impact of compassionate palliative and end-of-life care for their family and friends. Please turn to the donation form at the back of this newsletter, go to ayrshirehospice.org, or simply scan the QR code below to support.
The Ayrshire Hospice In-Patient Unit was delighted to welcome some visitors at Christmas time. Some small and furry, some big and fluffy, and some from the world of football came to visit patients, their families and staff in the run-up to Christmas.
Bunny Luv
Scan to support
Kilmarnock FC first-team players Gary Mackay-Steven, Brad Lyons and Innes Cameron. Photo by Jamie Williamson
April 2024 | EDITION 36
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Emma’s story
“The way our family was cared for and treated by the Ayrshire Hospice really made those memories such a foundation, I just remember them so well even today, sixteen years later.” Palliative and end of life care is unique in that it not only supports the patient but also the patient’s family. As special as that care is for the patient, it can have a lasting impact on loved ones who also receive care and support to cope with watching someone special in their life approach the end of life. In October 2008, the Ayrshire Hospice cared for Christine Blair, a devoted mother and grandmother. The care she received brought comfort to her family, but the support the family received had a lasting impact in particular on Christine’s then 7-year-old granddaughter, Emma. Sixteen years on, Emma has run the Edinburgh Marathon (with more to come!) to raise money for the Ayrshire Hospice in memory of her gran. She has never forgotten the Ayrshire Hospice and how the team cared for her gran, as well as helping her cope with loss at such a young age.
My sister Holly, who is two years younger than me, became part of our routine when my mum returned to work. Our gran would pick me up from school and then collect Holly from nursery. She would then look after us for a few hours in the afternoon until my parents got back from work. This continued through my first few years at primary school before my gran just got too ill to come up and look after us. As a result, we had to go into after-school care at Eaglesham. I didn’t like the after- school care much and just wanted for my gran to look after me again. In the Ayrshire Hospice One of the first visits to see my gran in the Hospice’s In-Patient Unit left a lasting impression. Her nurses were all so lovely, and after obtaining consent from our parents, they gave me, my sister, and my two cousins books on how to deal with grief as a child, together with lots of other information that really simplified what was going on. Being told a loved one is going to die pretty soon, as a child, it’s difficult to process that. However, I held onto these resources for a long time. Having them was comforting, allowing us to understand what was happening in a simplified manner . So, having the ability to prepare for it, as a seven-year-old, when you’re not emotionally mature and can’t process all these emotions properly, knowing what
was going to happen before it occurred made the process a lot easier. I was able to understand it much more. When you’re told someone has died or passed away, you don’t actually know what that means, and the books helped explain the significance. I felt like I was processing those emotions in advance because I knew it was going to happen; it was such a valuable resource. It helped put me at ease, these nurses had given me this information and it was done in a way to help me understand. Death isn’t an easy subject but it was done in a way that was relatable, with pictures and stories about other children and that sort of thing, and I still remember them so clearly. I think it speaks volumes for the Ayrshire Hospice team. If I had a question they would answer it and answer it in a way I could understand at the age I was at the time. I believe that if they had started saying, ‘Oh, it doesn’t involve you, that’s okay,’ in an attempt to shelter me from what was happening, it probably would have made the situation worse. As a result, I might not have these valuable memories sixteen years later. My grandpa was in and out of the hospital in my childhood, so I was never afraid of a clinical environment. There was definitely something different about the Ayrshire Hospice, it didn’t have that typical hospital smell, there were no overly bright lights, and it didn’t feel clinical. It’s hard to describe, but it just didn’t feel “hospitally.” I know
a lot of people do connect hospices with death and illness, but the Ayrshire Hospice didn’t have that atmosphere, and I think that put me at ease. Although everything wasn’t going to be okay, I did feel that it was a comforting environment. There are lots of things that I can remember
Emma shared with the Hospice: “I believe that having lost a grandparent quite young and being provided with the resources from the Ayrshire Hospice gave me a solid foundation for processing grief. This is because I knew at a young age what I might feel, how to deal with those feelings, and that it was okay to feel like that. I truly believe that I am better equipped now to deal with loss and grief due to the experience I had at seven years old.” ....................... My Gran died in October of 2008 when I was only seven years old. Today, I find it challenging to remember the duration of her illness and how long she spent in hospital as well as the Hospice’s In-Patient Unit. However, it’s a testament to the Hospice that while I have no memories of my gran in the hospital, I remember so much from her during her time with the Hospice. The way our family was cared for and treated by the Ayrshire Hospice really made those memories such a foundation, I just remember them so well even today, sixteen years later I was the first grandchild of four in the family and I spent a lot of time when I was young being looked after by my Gran and Grandpa. I have so many fond memories of going for days out and baking in the kitchen with my gran, which we did a lot. We would do all sorts – we would go to Culzean Castle, basically any castle in the area, any beach, anything. Blair Castle was a favourite of mine, and being a Blair, I was hoping that one day I would say I was a Blair that they would say “this castle is yours!”
to the hard work of the nurses, doctors and all the other staff. Supporting the Ayrshire Hospice means that more individuals and families, like mine, can receive the care they deserve. I wanted to say thank you to the Ayrshire Hospice by fundraising, and did so by running the Edinburgh Marathon. ....................... To my younger self,
and connect with the Ayrshire Hospice, and the Fairy Garden is the one I remember so clearly from that time. My gran would watch my sister and I from her room as we hunted the garden for the fairies. When you found them, the nurses would give us a wee certificate afterwards. You felt like you had achieved something. It was all the little things that made a big difference, that’s what I remember. They had this little drawer they would bring out and would say “Pick your chocolate bar” every time we came. Staff have probably thought nothing of it giving me a chocolate bar but sixteen years later I still remember it so fondly. ....................... Losing my gran was probably one of the hardest things I have been through. Despite being so young, I can vividly recall these memories, and not a day passes without thoughts of my grandparents, many of which are centred around the Ayrshire Hospice. It is truly a testament
I would tell her to experience all the feelings; it’s okay.
There are so many things you will do in life that you know would make Granny proud, even if she’s not here to them herself. To someone else in this situation, it’s not going to feel like this forever. Think of all the happy memories you shared and hold them close!” Donations are so vital in order for the Ayrshire Hospice to continue their work. Donating enables more families to create cherished memories even after their loved one is gone, like I did.
April 2024 | EDITION 36
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2024 Events!
This year, the Ayrshire Hospice is gearing up for a thrilling lineup of both new and established events that promise excitement and unforgettable experiences!
A Night at the Euros Final Friday 26th April, Ayr Racecourse Can’t get tickets to Germany? We’ve got the next best thing! Join us for an evening of fantastic sporting entertainment with iconic footballing legends who will be split into two teams to battle it out as Scotland V The Rest of The World. Our special guests will face thrilling quiz rounds, with both teams hoping to come out top! Refereed by award winning journalist and experienced broadcaster Mark Guidi, the two teams will then participate in an off-the-cuff, unscripted question and answer session.
The James Bond Ball
Colour Dash Sunday 23rd June, Eglinton Country Park, 9.30am We are partnering with Ayrshire Cancer Support to present the most colourful event of the year : a vibrant 5km fun run around Eglinton Park! Raise funds for the Ayrshire Hospice or Ayrshire Cancer Support as you walk, jog, or run through showers of coloured powder. Conclude the experience by sliding across the finish line through our adrenaline-pumping 50ft assault course and slide!
Ayrshire Hospice Golf Day Monday 12th August, West Kilbride Golf Course
Saturday 1st June, Ayr Racecourse, 7pm Enjoy arrival drinks and immerse yourself in the full Bond experience.. . why not treat yourself to a martini, shaken not stirred of course! Expect glitz, glamour and mystery as you revel in the night’s entertainment. We have fantastic entertainment lined up for you and one of the UK’s leading event hosts will compère the evening, all will be revealed shortly.
Start the day with bacon rolls, tea, and coffee before enjoying your round in the competition. The day’s play will adopt the format of a Texas Scramble, with tee-off times spaced at ten-minute intervals. A satisfying lunch/dinner will follow your game. Only a few tee times remain, so act swiftly!
Scan the QR code to book!
Scan the QR code to book!
Scan the QR code to book!
For further details or to reserve your spot for any of the events, please contact our Fundraising Team at 01292 288488 or email events@ayrshirehospice.org
Scan the QR code to book!
April 2024 | EDITION 36
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RETAIL DETAIL
My Ayrshire Hospice Story
‘Plant smiles, grow laughter, shop pre-loved and you will blossom this Spring’ Our shops have hundreds of stylish pre-loved must-haves just waiting for you to buy. Warmer days are calling and there is no better time to schedule a visit to one or more of our beautiful high street shops. With the Spring season finally here and the need to shop more sustainably increasingly important, make sure you keep the ‘re-wear revolution’ springing its way forward this season!
Caroline Shankley Cumnock Assistant Shop Manager
My initial contact with the Ayrshire Hospice dates back to 2014 when I applied to become a volunteer within the hairdressing salon. Having previously worked in hairdressing, I was eager to contribute and help. The night before my first day, I wondered if I had made the right decision. Would everyone be sad and unhappy? However, the reality was quite the opposite. I met a lovely lady named Pauline Hepher, the stylist, who warmly welcomed me and promptly assigned me the role of Salon junior, a job I loved. I had the opportunity to meet lots of staff and patients, and I would chat away to patients while they were getting their hair done, learning all about their lives and family. Pauline also taught me how to do nails, allowing me to offer manicures while she styled their hair. Although I had to pause my involvement due to work commitments, my time at Racecourse Road allowed me to see all the hard work that is involved from all the members of staff in caring for both patients and their families. I am so excited for all the new memories that are yet to be made when the Capital Build Project is complete. Fast forward to 7th June 2021, my first day working for the Ayrshire Hospice in Retail. I’ve worked in retail for 20+ years but nothing prepares you for charity retail, it’s both physically and mentally demanding but also very rewarding. You never know what you are going to find when you open a box or a bag, every day is certainly a school day, and you’re constantly learning - thank goodness for Google Lens and eBay! .................................................................................................. I work in the Cumnock shop, where all the volunteers go above and beyond to help. We are lucky to have customers who are also very loyal and friendly, we often get home baking handed in for the staff and volunteers! .................................................................................................. I really enjoy my work, and the people I meet. Although I feel as if I’m contributing in a different way towards helping the Ayrshire Hospice – and the people it supports - I know it’s just as vital.”
Mauchline Just three years young, our beautiful Mauchline shop stands as the epitome of a hidden gem, tucked away from the main road that winds through this quaint Ayrshire town. It’s worth making a U-turn if you almost miss it! The Mauchline shop pays homage to one of its most famous residents, Robert Burns, and proudly displays a variety of quality donations, ranging from ladieswear to homeware and menswear to kidswear—there is something for everyone.
Our manager, Jillian, along with our wonderful team of volunteers, are already planning their Holy Fair celebrations on the 29th of May. They will host the ever-popular tombola, offer special deals on the day, and provide refreshments for everyone. In the words of Robert Burns himself... “ Nows the day and nows the hour’ to visit our Mauchline Belle.”
April 2024 | EDITION 36
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Spreading the Ayrshire Hospice Message: Community Talks and Engagements Over the past two months, the Ayrshire Hospice team has enjoyed giving talks in the community about our hospice services, fundraising, and the progress of our Capital Build Project. Ron Swanson, Fundraising Manager, and Emily Janes from the Fundraising team have visited the WI Tarbolton, WI Dundonald, Largs United Guild, Hurlford Church Guild and Mansefield Church Guild! Ron said: “Thanks to all the groups for having us, we love getting out in the community to speak about the Hospice.”
Recognising David’s efforts Congratulations to volunteer David Duffield, who sold over 360 diaries and notebooks in the Ayrshire Hospice Largs and Saltcoats shops, raising £1,803. David has been a volunteer for over five years. When asked why he supports the Hospice, he mentioned that he enjoys meeting and chatting with our customers, and he finds the volunteers and staff he works with to be amazing. If you want to make a difference and are interested in volunteering with Ayrshire Hospice, please ask in-store for an application today .
Elevate Your Style, Diminish Your Carbon Footprint with our Ayr Shop’s new Clearance Department
If you are a member of a local group and would like to have a visit from the Ayrshire Hospice, please call Ron on 01292 288488 or email donate@ayrshirehospice.org
The fashion industry – from material sourcing, through supply chains to washing and waste – is estimated to be responsible for 8-10% of global carbon emissions every year. Therefore, there is no greater reason to opt for pre-loved items and provide a second chance to clothes by engaging in sustainable shopping at one of our shops. Not only will you prolong the life of garments and diminish the environmental impact of your wardrobe, but you will also discover that one- of-a-kind gem that sets you apart from the rest. We can all play a part when it comes to shopping sustainably, and one of the best ways to reduce your impact is to keep clothes in circulation for longer. By keeping clothes in use for just an extra nine months, it can reduce their carbon, water, and waste footprint by 20-30%. With this in mind, a must-visit is our new Ayr Clearance department in our Crown Street shop. You are guaranteed to pick up a bargain or ten with prices ranging from just £3 to £1; these rails don’t stay full for long! Every donation matters, and we want to ensure we achieve the best value possible for each; therefore, if the item doesn’t sell in two of our shops, it will be transferred to the Ayr branch to be snapped up by those who love a bargain. We will also be selling out-of-season stock, so if you are planning a warm getaway in winter or a winter adventure in summer, make sure you pop into our Ayr clearance department before you plan those outfits. ‘Sustainability is not a trend, it’s a way of living’
Mark Special Moments with the Ayrshire Hospice’s Latest Memento
As 2024 is set to be a momentous year for the Ayrshire Hospice, it seemed fitting to mark this by adding new pin badges to our collection. Designed with various occasions in mind and popular as wedding favours, these badges will be available at numerous events throughout the year. Catch us at the Turnberry Wedding Fair on the 20th of April to get your hands on these charming mementos. The badges are also available from our fundraising office in Miller Road, Ayr. Additionally, orders can be placed by phone at 01292 288488 or through email at fundraising@ayrshirehospice.org.
Every purchase contributes directly to the provision of our specialist palliative and end-of-life care and services. So, wear your support proudly and join us in making a difference.
April 2024 | EDITION 36
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Thank you to all of our amazing Community Fundraisers
Lucy Fawcett Triathlon
Irvine Friends of the Hospice Country and Western evening 29 Oct 2023 £1,420.00 ....................... Ayr Choral Choir Ayr Choral Concert 29 Oct 2023 £271.06 ....................... Jane Lancaster Virtual swim of the English Channel 29 Oct 2023 £737.00 ....................... Truss Dental Fancy dress day at the Practice 31 Oct 2023 £153.00 ....................... Ayr Rugby Club Fireworks at Ayr Rugby Club 3 Nov 2023 £746.47 ....................... Dunlop Friends Group Craft Fair 3 Nov 2023 £3,637.05 ....................... Institue of Refrigration Dinner at Hilton Hotel
Joyce Gavin Skydive (St Andrews) 12 Nov 2023 £800.00 ....................... Graham Crawley Beard Shave 17 Nov 2023 £2,395.00 ....................... Connell family Race Night 25 Nov 2023 £3,344.70 ....................... C&C Crafts - Team McLaughlin Christmas Fayre 26 Nov 2023 £3,700.00 ....................... Marr Capella Community Choir
Beth O’Ware Surprise party for parents wedding anniversary 15 Dec 2023 £50.00
Small Talk Café Annual Christmas Raffle 21 Dec 2023 £672.00 ....................... Booth Welsh Dinner event 28 Dec 2023 £1,688.00 ....................... Girvan Dippers Dinner event
1 Aug 2023 £2,900.00
....................... Rebecca McMichael Bungee Jump 160ft 23 Sep 2023 £50.00 ....................... Bobby Keen Croonfest 23 30 Sep 2023 £4,500.00 ....................... Freddie Dawson Stall at Antiques Fair 30 Sep 2023 £41.50 ....................... Grace Coughtrie & Joe Mcpherson Golf Day at Belleisle Golf Club 1 Oct 2023 £1,655.00 ....................... Kirsty McVicar Climbed Kilimanjaro
There are so many unique ways that the local community supports the Ayrshire Hospice, and we are so grateful for all the donations we receive, whether this is in our Fundraising Office or our shops. Recently, dedicated volunteers Ian, Rowena, and Norma have been cataloguing coins from around the world that have been generously donated. Some rare coins are over 500 years old and hold real value. These treasured donations not only provide a fantastic means of supporting the Hospice but also offer an educational journey, allowing us to trace the origins of these coins. Currently, some of the coins have travelled from the Cayman Islands to here in the UK! The journey they have travelled to reach us and the impact they will have on our fundraising is a lovely story to share. If you have any rare coins or any foreign currency you wish to part with, the Fundraising team in Miller Road, Ayr, would love to hear from you! Please contact the team on 01292 288 488 or email community@ayrshirehospice.org of the world By Emily Janes, Fundraiser c ins
....................... Lorne Arcade in Ayr Xmas Fair 16 Dec 2023 £98.89 ....................... Ayr Choral Choir Ayr Choral Concert 17 Dec 2023 £572.79 .......................
1 Jan 2024 £1,000.00
The Ayrshire Hospice’s 2023 Light up a Life campaign has, to date, raised a fantastic £25,703.72 , with donations
Leo and Oliver Santa Dash 5k 17 dec 2023 £1,125.00
....................... The Smugglers Inn Guess the amount in the bottle 20 Dec 2023 £300.00 ....................... Alfred H Knight Christmas Raffle 21 Dec 2023 £277.00 ....................... Allenwest Christmas Raffle 21 Dec 2023 £600.00
25th Anniversary Christmas Choir 6 Dec 2023 £4,305.00
....................... Rotary Club of Ayr Christmas Tree of Remembrance 12 Dec 2023 £2,200.00 ....................... Glennon Brothers Christmas Jumper Day 14 Dec 2023 £1,800.00
1 Oct 2023 £2,335.00
....................... Jeanette Thomson Selling her hand- crafted sewing & quilted items at her church fair 28 Oct 2023 £1,600.00
still being received.
9 Nov 2023 £4,000.00
This contribution helped staff to provide the gift of exceptional palliative and end of life care over the Christmas period. As always, the Ayrshire Hospice is incredibly grateful to the community for their generous support in achieving this remarkable amount. A special thank you goes to Julie for sharing her story, which served as the heart of our appeal.
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.
April 2024 | EDITION 36
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Turning Ayrshire Purple
Christmas Super Draw raises over £35,000
By Ron Swanson, Fundraising Manager
Congratulations to all the lucky Christmas Super Draw Winners! We were truly delighted with the amazing response to this year’s Super Draw campaign - you have raised an incredible £38,141 Watch out for our news on the Ayrshire Hospice Summer Super Draw in the coming weeks and how to get involved.
By Claire Stuart-Paulin, Senior Fundraiser
What a day! It might have been Friday 13th but that didn’t stop our supporters joining in the purple fun last October. With Ayrshire schools, businesses and community groups coming together to celebrate Go Purple Day. Bake sales, quiz nights and dress up days were happening all over Ayrshire, the whole day was full of energy, passion and, of course, purple! There’s no time like the present to get planning for this year, so save the date for this year’s Go Purple - Friday 11th October.
If you’d like to join in the fun this year contact fundraising on 01292 288 488 or email community@ayrshirehospice. org for your free fundraising pack.
By Ron Swanson, Fundraising Manager
Congratulations to Norman Macpherson who won the top prize of £1,000 in the 1,500th Ayrshire Hospice lottery draw. Well done Norman! Since the lottery began in the mid-1990s, it has generated over £18 million in sales for the Hospice.
Thank you to the loyal lottery players who take part every week, with their support we are able to continue to provide exceptional care all year round to local patients and their families. If you’re not
in our lottery and would like to be in with a chance to win weekly, please sign up at www.ayrshirehospice.org
Gifts in Wills
A chance to win…a way to care.
In February, the Ayrshire Hospice celebrated a significant milestone, marking 35 years of dedicated support to Ayrshire and Arran.
Now, we feel more determined than ever to continue serving the community long into the future. You have the power to contribute to this legacy by leaving a gift in your will to our charity. Help us plan for the future. Make Ayrshire Hospice care your legacy.
For more information, please visit www.ayrshirehospice.org for further information or speak with Lucy Glendinning, Senior Fundraiser, on 01292 288 488.
Scan the QR code to join our Lottery
April 2024 | EDITION 36
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My own choice of £ The redeveloped home of the Ayrshire Hospice will be a facility that sets a new standard of excellence, and one that the community of Ayrshire and Arran will be proud to call their own. Support the completion of this vital project and help bring the Hospice back to its traditional home by making a donation today. £100 £50 £20 £10 My own choice of £ The redeveloped home of the Ayrshire Hospice will be a facility that sets a new standard of excellence, and one that the community of Ayrshire and Arran will be proud to call their own. Support the completion of this vital project and help bring the Hospice back to its traditional home by making a donation today. £10 £20 £50 £100
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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!
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