The construction industry luncheon society based in North London
Founded in 1984
A Visit to the North London Hospice - July 2017
On Thursday 6th July a group representing the POETS' Luncheon Society dropped in on the North London Hospice at Winchmore Hill.
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Jenny Thiou, the Fundraising Campaign Manager for the hospice extended a warm welcome and arranged for Angie Pymm to take us on a tour around the facilities. It was a truly uplifting experience to observe at close hand the amazing work carried out by the staff and an army of dedicated volunteers.
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During the visit we were introduced to Campbell Findlay, the Communications Officer, who furnished us with the following information.
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North London Hospice has been caring for the people of Barnet, Enfield and Haringey since 1984, providing specialist end-of-life care to people living with a terminal illness. At present we treat over 2,200 patients a year. Our specially trained multi-disciplinary teams provide emotional, practical and spiritual support to patients as well as their families, friends and carers. We also work extensively within the wider community.
As we receive only around 1/3 of our funding from government sources we rely on fundraising and other charitable activities to raise the rest.
And some quick facts?
• This year the Hospice will cost 7.34 million to fund our care.
• We cared for 2274 patients in 16-17
• we currently have 750 active volunteers working with us
• We have 18 retail shops
• We operate from three sites across three boroughs
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It is a tough task raising over £4.5 million to generate the remaining 2/3 funding required to cover the hospice's costs, but that is what the fundraisers have to do on a yearly basis.
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Hopefully in the future the POETS will be able to play their part in supporting this most worthwhile of causes.
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THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Community groups already play a major role in supporting the North London Hospice. Various groups and clubs, including Scouts, Youth Groups, Masonic Lodges, Rotarians and the Lions Club actively support the hospice in their fundraising. The POETS are proud to say that they have now joined their ranks.
If you would like to learn more about the North London Hospice and their work, or if you want to know about upcoming events just follow the link. Maybe even sign up for their newsletter.