Severn Hospice has been caring for patients from Shropshire, Telford and Mid Wales with terminal illnesses for almost 20 years. From nursing in the home to round the clock in-patient services our team strives to provide the best possible care to every individual. Because such illnesses have a significant effect on the home life of the patient and those who love them, we also provide support and counselling to family members and carers.

Each year we receive over 1,000 new referrals in addition to providing ongoing care to those who are already Hospice patients. We never lose sight of the fact that each patient has their own needs and offer a tailored service giving personalised support to each.

Comments from patients and families include ‘Severn Hospice provided us with every little thing we needed, including compassion’, ‘Severn Hospice is a fantastic cause! It is close to our hearts because a close member of our family passed away. Her last days were spent at the Hospice in Shrewsbury where we saw what a fantastic job the people did there not only for the patient but also for the family’ and ‘I never knew such a wonderful place existed’.

There is no charge for any Hospice service and we rely on public donations and fundraising for over two thirds of our income to ensure that the best possible care is available locally when it is needed most.

The Ironbridge Gorge Brass Band Festival has become a central part of our summer calendar and is greatly anticipated both by aficionados of brass band music and by those who simply enjoy a great day out. Each year the audience has the privilege of hearing wonderful music played by talented musicians who revel in the fun, non-competitive environment. On Saturday night the grand Last Night of the Proms raises essential funds for the work of the Hospice while also providing the wonderful spectacle of two bands joining together for the finale.

2008 is an important year for the Hospice as we hope to open the first beds at the new Telford site while the existing Shrewsbury Hospice will also undergo major refurbishment work to modernise the facilities available. While the changes will allow us to offer care and support to even more patients and families they will also have a significant impact on our running costs. The support of the public will be more important than ever as we move into the next stage of Hospice care in the county.

We are proud of our continued association with the Ironbridge Gorge Brass Band Festival and would like to express our thanks not only to the bands but also to the Festival Committee and the Ironbridge and Severn Gorge Lions for their hard work and enthusiasm. They have played an important part in raising funds to get the new Hospice in Telford built and we are delighted to be working with them to secure the future of Hospice care in the region.

The calendar of Hospice fundraising events in the county this year also includes Dragon Boat Racing on the River Severn in June, a cycling festival in August and a sponsored walk in September. Information on all of these events and other ways to help such as supporting Severn Hospice Lottery, donating to your local Severn Hospice shop or organising a fundraiser of your own are available by contacting the Appeals Department on 01743 354 450 or 01952 221 351 or by emailing appeals@severnhospice.org.uk