Crawley hospice welcomes emergency Government funding for charities

Earlier this month Chancellor Rishi Sunak pledged £750million towards the charitable sector so organisations can continue their vital work during the coronavirus outbreak.

It came after charities such as St Catherine’s Hospice, which provides vital care and support to terminally ill people across Crawley, Horsham and Mid Sussex, warned of an urgent need for new funding.

The hospice’s finances have been hit by the closure of its charity shops and cancellation or postponement of fundraising events.

But it is hoped the Government cash will go some way towards plugging the significant funding shortfall.

Claire Irving, chief executive at St Catherine’s Hospice, said, “This announcement is really welcome news. We’re grateful to Hospice UK for working on behalf of all hospices to get this government deal, and we remain extremely grateful to our local community for their continued support. Support from our community sustains us year round, and it’s helping us now than ever.

“St Catherine’s can only be there for terminally ill people and their family and friends because of local people’s generosity. This is a challenging time for us all but we’ve been really humbled by the outpouring of donations and well wishes we’ve received, and continue to receive, from so many people.

“Together, with your support, we’ll navigate this uncertain time. With your help, we’ll make sure that we’re still there for people in our community, like we have been for nearly 40 years.”

You can make a donation by calling St Catherine’s supporter care team on 01293 447361 or visiting its website.

Announcing the funding, Mr Sunak said: “Our charities are playing a crucial role in the national fight against coronavirus, supporting those who are most in need.

“It’s right we do everything we can to help the sector during this difficult time, which is why we have announced this unprecedented £750 million package of extra funding.

“This will ensure our key charities can continue to deliver the services that millions of people up and down the country rely on.”

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