Chichester care home raises £110 for Sussex hospital charity
A Chichester care home has raised £110 for myCharity after welcoming a special visitor who shared an insight into the charity’s work supporting patients and families across Sussex.
John Price, from myCharity visited Marriott House and Lodge to meet staff, learn more about its community activities and encourage further fundraising for the charity, which supports University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust.
During his visit, John joined the Marriott House and Lodge team in supporting a 100-mile walking challenge, covering the distance between all seven University Hospitals Sussex hospitals to raise money for the cause.
The home also organised a charity raffle, helping bring the total raised to £110.
John took the opportunity to speak with the home’s administration assistant, Clara, about the work carried out by myCharity and the difference fundraising makes to patients and their families.
The charity funds projects that go beyond essential NHS provision, helping to provide additional equipment, facilities and services to improve patients’ experiences.
Its work ranges from supporting specialist surgical facilities and upgrading medical equipment to providing toys for children receiving hospital treatment.
John also explained some of the charity’s community-focused initiatives, including its First 50 Club, which encourages local businesses to get involved in fundraising.
The scheme gives participating businesses £50 to use as a starting point before challenging them to grow the money through their own creative fundraising activities.
The initiative was initially piloted in the Chichester area, involving around 12 or 13 businesses, which collectively raised more than £16,000. The charity is now looking to expand the scheme across Sussex.
Another initiative, Small Acts of Friendship, aims to improve the wellbeing and dignity of patients facing longer hospital stays, particularly those receiving stroke care or neurorehabilitation.
Activities such as haircuts, manicures and music therapy can make a significant difference to patients, while volunteers, including dementia buddies, provide companionship through games, puzzles and conversation.
One project has seen myCharity support the creation of a dedicated space at Worthing Hospital for parents who have experienced the loss of a baby.
The private space allows families time together to create precious memories and memory boxes without feeling rushed. The provision has since been extended across the Trust.
John encouraged individuals, businesses and community groups to get involved in supporting their local hospitals, highlighting that fundraising could take many forms, from cake sales and raffles to sponsored challenges and music events.
Janyce Wilkes, general manager at Marriott House and Lodge, said: “We were delighted to welcome John to Marriott House and Lodge and learn more about the fantastic work myCharity does to support patients and families across Sussex.
“As a home, we are passionate about supporting our local community, and it was wonderful to have the opportunity to contribute to such a worthwhile cause.
“Raising £110 through our fundraising efforts is something we’re really proud of, and we hope it will help make a positive difference to those who need it most.”
The home is now looking forward to welcoming John back later this month, when he will take on the role of quizmaster at a fundraising quiz night in aid of myCharity.
The event will bring residents, staff and supporters together for an evening of fun and fundraising, continuing the home’s efforts to support the charity and the patients and families it helps across Sussex.