A BASINGSTOKE hospice has launched an appeal to raise funds for vital equipment and care.

The patient comfort appeal has been launched by St Michael’s Hospice, which provides free compassionate care for patients across North Hampshire who have life-limiting illnesses.

More and more families are turning to the hospice for end-of-life care and pain management – not just in the hospice, but in homes across North Hampshire.

Increased demand for services means the hospice is needing more equipment, such as syringe drivers and pain-relieving mattresses to make sure patients are as comfortable and as pain-free as possible.

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The hospice said they are crucial in ensuring people have the best quality of life, regardless of how many hours, days or weeks they have left.

But unfortunately, they are expensive, and with more families needing help, the hospice is raising money to buy these items.

Natalie Welch, whose mum was cared for by St Michael’s Hospice, said: “Hospices really are the most underrated service. It’s not until you get into a life-limiting situation that you realise the full range of services they offer.

“They cared for my mum and my family when we needed it most, and as a community, we need to help ensure the hospice’s services are there for more families when they need it too. Please help by donating to this appeal if you can.”

With the rise in the cost of living, energy and food bills, it's now costing £1,150 more a day to run the hospice’s services.

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Hospice’s director of income generation, Lorraine Pink said: “With the rising cost of living, and increased demand for our services, we’re calling on our local community for help.

“We’re only 16 per cent funded by the government, so rely on the generosity of our supporters to help us provide vital care. Every pound donated to our appeal will really help make a huge difference for the people and families we care for.

“I also want to say a big thank you to Natalie for sharing her story and highlighting the importance of hospice care.

To support the hospice, or find out more, visit stmichaelshospice.org.uk/appeal-letter