Rowans Hospice launches Christmas Appeal to fund cuddle beds for the Hospice
Rowans Hospice has launched the “Gift a Cuddle This Christmas” Appeal to raise funds to provide additional cuddle beds for the Hospice, so every patient has the chance of being close to their loved ones in their final moments.
Rowans Hospice’s newest Christmas Campaign, appeals to the community to help raise money to fund additional cuddle beds for the Hospice.
A cuddle bed is a specially designed bed that expands from a single to a double size, allowing patients and their loved ones to lie side by side, hold each other close, and share precious moments that would otherwise be impossible. Each bed costs £15,000, including the mattress and bedding.
At the end of 2024, Rowans Hospice was grateful to receive generous grants from The Grace Trust, The Mark Benevolent Fund and Hampshire, IOW Masonic Charitable Foundation, and an anonymous funder, to fund three Cuddle Beds for the In-patient Unit. However, with 16 rooms in total, the Hospice’s goal is to ensure that every family has the opportunity to share a cuddle during the most difficult of times.
With Christmas approaching a special atmosphere begins to fill the Hospice and gently extends beyond its walls. It reaches into the Hospice at Home service and across our wider care, bringing comfort, warmth, and connection to all those we support. Everyone at the Hospice does everything possible to make this time of year feel festive with twinkling lights,
Christmas trees, music, even a brass band or a visit from a donkey. Families add their own decorations, favourite treats, and traditions, making each bedroom feel more like their own homes.
Sally Woodroffe, Senior Staff Nurse said “I will never forget sitting with a mother and daughter in matching Christmas pyjamas, sharing stories and laughter late into the night. Or the young woman who adored Christmas, determined to wrap gifts for her children and write a letter to her husband, reminders that even in the hardest times, love shines bright.”
Jo Fricker, Deputy Chief Executive and Clinical Director says “Every cuddle bed represents a moment of comfort and connection. This Christmas, we’re asking our community to help make this dream a reality for every family in our care.”
The Hospice now appeals to its community to help this dream come true, giving every family the chance of a cuddle. To donate simply visit the Rowans Hospice website - www.rowanshospice.co.uk/donate/