Support our Yorkshire hospices appeal

The Gazette and sister titles across the region are to raise money for the three Yorkshire children’s hospices over the next 12 months.

For the first time, Martin House near Wetherby, Bluebell Wood in Sheffield and Forget-Me-Not in Huddersfield are teaming up to jointly benefit.

And we need the help of our readers to reach our £30,000 target so the hospices can continue their excellent work supporting the families of nearly 1,000 children and young people with life-shortening conditions.

Every year the hospices need to raise more than £13 million in total because only 10 per cent of their funding comes from the Government. Our appeal could make a huge difference by providing nursing care, a vital break or support at home for families in the most difficult situations.

Editor Ed Asquith said: “Martin House Hospice provides an exceptional service for families facing the most heart-rending experiences.

“What could be better than helping a family whose children face life-shortening conditions? The hospice provides respite, support and practical help that is hugely supportive.”

Every single pound raised through the appeal will make a big difference – and to start the appeal, we’re asking readers to show they care by holding a cake sale.

Simply holding a coffee morning could raise enough to send a family on a day trip or allow a member of a hospice’s community team to pay a much-needed home visit.

Are you supporting the appeal? Tell us about it via social media using #ychappeal or email [email protected] with the details of your activities.

Click here to make a donation to the appeal online or here to download a fundraising pack.

What could the hospice buy with your donation?

£2 – could buy plenty of bubbles for a lovely warm, cosy and fun bath or whirlpool experience.£5 – could pay for a 10 minute telephone conversation for a parent who “just wants to talk”.£10 – could pay for a child’s meals each day they stay at a Yorkshire children’s hospice.£20 – could pay for materials, including creation of a memory book, for a sibling being supported through a bereavement.£100 – could pay for a community team member to offer emotional support in a family’s own home.£240 – could pay for six one-hour counselling support sessions.£1,000 – could pay for the neonatal care we provide for a family who has a baby with a life limiting diagnosis.