Our Supporters intro image Our Supporters intro image

07
Our
Supporters

A crucial aspect of achieving our objectives lies in the unwavering support from our generous donors, dedicated volunteers, and the success of fundraising events. The pivotal role played by our supporters in enhancing our services cannot be overstated as without them we simply would not be able to continue to fund the vital work of the hospice.

Donations are vital to St. Columba’s Hospice Care. These contributions, whether large or small, directly impact our ability to provide free, high quality clinical services to those in need.

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The importance of these contributions is overwhelming, as they enable us to continue our mission of providing compassionate care to patients and their families.

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The importance of these contributions is overwhelming, as they enable us to continue our mission of providing compassionate care to patients and their families.

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Illustration of marathon runners

Whether it be through a community event, by raising sponsorship for a challenge or physical undertaking, or by supporting us with a gift throughout the year, each and every donation we receive helps run the Hospice. The same can be said for the loyal shoppers at our charity shops across Edinburgh and East Lothian, where the purchases made help us fund our work. A special mention also to those who have donated items to our shops over the year, and without whom we would not have had such a successful year across our shops.

During the financial year ending March 2023 we saw the continued recovery of donated income (at £1.2 million), which had been badly affected as a result of the restrictions in place during COVID. When taken as a whole our total income for the year was 8.5% ahead of last year at £10.33 million inclusive of all voluntary, trading, shops, lottery, statutory and in-vestment income.

The importance of these contributions is overwhelming, as they enable us to continue our mission of providing compassionate care to patients and their families.

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Empowering the Hospice Through Volunteers

A shining example of the strength of our community lies in the dedication of our 540 volunteers. These remarkable individuals selflessly contribute their time, skills, and kindness to various departments throughout the Hospice, our community, and charity shops. Their support plays a critical role in enhancing patient experiences, assisting administrative tasks, and even aiding in research activities. By volunteering at the Hospice, these compassionate individuals demonstrate how meaningful connections can be formed by extending a helping hand to those in need.

Fundraising Events: Uniting for a Purpose

To further diversify our income streams and spread risk, St. Columba’s Hospice Care organises fundraising events that bring communities together in support of our cause. These events not only raise essential funds but also serve as a platform to raise awareness about palliative care and our mission as an organisation. With the ongoing impact of the pandemic and the cost of living crisis affecting donors, fundraising events have become more critical than ever in securing the necessary resources for our services. Whether it’s a charity run, a gala dinner, or an online campaign, each event strengthens the bond between our supporters and the Hospice.

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The Power of Building Connections

The significance of building connections cannot be overlooked. Our Compassionate Neighbours volunteers exemplify the positive impact of forming genuine, caring friendships with local people who may be socially isolated, lonely, or facing life-limiting conditions. These meaningful connections not only bring comfort and support to those in need but also foster a sense of belonging and community spirit. By connecting people based on shared hobbies, interests, and geographical location, we create an environment of compassion and under-standing, enriching the lives of both the volunteers and those they support.

The unwavering support of our donors, volunteers, and the success of fundraising events play an integral role in our ability to fulfil our mission of providing compassionate care to those with life-limiting illnesses. Donations enable us to offer free clinical services, while volunteers enhance the patient experience and contribute to research activities. Fundraising events not only raise crucial funds but also unite communities in support of our cause. Additionally, by building connections through our Compassionate Neighbours program, we foster a sense of belonging and create stronger, more connected communities.

As we look to the future, we are optimistic that with continued support, we can make an even greater impact and improve the lives of all those connected to us.

Illustration of tickets

As we look to the future, we are optimistic that with continued support, we can make an even greater impact and improve the lives of all those connected to us.

The Power of Building Connections

The significance of building connections cannot be overlooked. Our Compassionate Neighbours volunteers exemplify the positive impact of forming genuine, caring friendships with local people who may be socially isolated, lonely, or facing life-limiting conditions. These meaningful connections not only bring comfort and support to those in need but also foster a sense of belonging and community spirit. By connecting people based on shared hobbies, interests, and geographical location, we create an environment of compassion and under-standing, enriching the lives of both the volunteers and those they support.

The unwavering support of our donors, volunteers, and the success of fundraising events play an integral role in our ability to fulfil our mission of providing compassionate care to those with life-limiting illnesses. Donations enable us to offer free clinical services, while volunteers enhance the patient experience and contribute to research activities. Fundraising events not only raise crucial funds but also unite communities in support of our cause. Additionally, by building connections through our Compassionate Neighbours program, we foster a sense of belonging and create stronger, more connected communities.