College and Hospice join forces for good

Hartlepool College of Further Education students and staff are helping to build a brighter future for Alice House Hospice by contributing time, skills and funding to support the essential care it provides across Hartlepool, Tees Valley and East Durham.

Alice House Hospice has thanked the College for its continued support through practical restoration work and a series of fundraising initiatives that have made a real impact. One recent project saw construction students and lecturers from the College give the external tunnel at the rear of the Hospice a much-needed uplift. The tunnel, which connects the main building with the Hospice’s Wellbeing Centre, now offers a more welcoming environment for patients, families and staff.

Greg Hildreth, Business and Communications Senior Manager at Alice House, said: “We are so grateful to Hartlepool College for everything they do in support of local Hospice care. The restoration of the tunnel is just one example of the fantastic support we receive from their talented students and committed staff. Their efforts make a real difference to the Hospice and those accessing our services.”

Health and Social Care students have also been leading the way in fundraising. Over 30 students, supported by five staff members, took part in a sponsored walk from the College to Seaton Carew and back, raising £562. This was part of their vocational programme and contributed to the “Contributing to the Community” unit of their course.

Gil Parker from Alice House joined the students for the walk and later presented participation certificates and framed awards to fundraising champions from each of the three groups involved. Alongside the walk, the students raised additional funds through an Easter Fair and a Dragons’ Den-inspired project. Combined, these efforts generated over £1,000 for Alice House. A formal cheque presentation took place earlier in June, where students presented Gil with the full amount raised.

Throughout the year, the College continues to support the Hospice in other ways too, offering help with design, media production and various projects as part of its patronage.

The Hospice provides vital care and support to people affected by life-limiting illness and bereavement. With the cost of services exceeding £3.7 million annually and only 34 per cent funded by the Government, Alice House relies heavily on community support to meet a daily shortfall of more than £6,500.

To find out more or to make a donation, visit www.alicehousehospice.co.uk.