Bolton Hospice revealed this summer that it is facing huge financial pressures and could be forced to make deep cuts. This prompted The Bolton News to launch the Save Bolton Hospice campaign which has so far proven to be a major success. In the third of a three part special report we look at the challenge the hospice still faces.

More needs to be done to save Bolton Hospice despite the “incredible kindness” people have shown already, a meeting has heard.

Around £450,000 has already been raised by the Save Bolton Hospice campaign, launched in partnership with The Bolton News.

But a patrons’ lunch hosted by the Deane Road based University of Bolton heard the much-loved Chorley New Road hospice’s finances are still “unsustainable” unless more is done.

Addressing the gathering, Bolton Hospice chair Judith Bromley said: “The challenge we’re currently facing is unlike any other we’ve experienced in our 30-year history.

“But I know that with your support we can ensure we’re here for another 30 years, and beyond.

The Bolton News: Bolton Hospice chair Judith Bromley with Mayor and Mayoress of Bolton Mohammed and Zaibun Nisa AyubBolton Hospice chair Judith Bromley with Mayor and Mayoress of Bolton Mohammed and Zaibun Nisa Ayub (Image: Henry Lisowski)

“We must, because the people of Bolton deserve the very best palliative and end of life care, and we won’t settle for anything less.”

Guests were welcomed by Dr Greg Walker, Pro Vice Chancellor, Academic Strategy, of the University of Bolton, and then watched a video highlighting the work of the hospice.

The Bolton News: The campaign was launched this summerThe campaign was launched this summer (Image: Newsquest)

Ms Bromley also thanked University of Bolton Vice Chancellor George Holmes for the support his intuition gives as “diamond patrons.”

he Patrons’ Scheme, originally set up 20 years ago, has recently been relaunched and new Emerald and Diamond levels introduced for those patrons who are able to contribute at the £2,500 and £10,000 level.

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But after revelations earlier this year about what cuts could mean if the funding gap is not plugged, including the loss of up to six beds, hospice staff and volunteers have appealed for people to continue giving generously and carrying out fundraising events.

Together with donors from all over Bolton, they have helped to bring the total funds raised to an incredible £450,000.

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Ms Bromley said: “Whilst this is a huge step forward in reducing this year’s deficit, which we now anticipate to be in the region of £750,000, this is still clearly unsustainable in the long term.

“We are of course desperate to avoid any reduction in our services, so alongside our funding negotiations we are continuing to do everything possible to grow income even further.”

Donations can be made by going to Save Bolton Hospice on Go Fund Me.