Pilgrims Hospices Summer Fair raises over £15,000 at Sandyacres
On Sunday 28 July 2024, hundreds of community members gathered at Sandyacres Sports and Social Club for the annual Pilgrims Hospices Summer Fair, raising over £15,000 for our charity.
Visitors delighted in browsing a variety of stalls offering puzzles, crafts, children’s toys, and gifts. The children’s craft area was particularly popular, with youngsters creating beautiful artwork using various media.
Delicious treats, including cream teas and cakes, were served at our refreshment stall, while the BBQ was a hit among visitors.
Music filled the air with lively performances by Where’s My Thing, alongside a set by Radio Ashford’s very own Sam Griffin and Webbo.
Faversham Ices generously sold ice creams donated by Consort, ensuring that 100% of the proceeds went to the hospice. We extend a special thanks to Richard, who donated his time and van to make this possible.
We are deeply grateful to the many local companies and our media partners who supported the event by donating prizes for the Grand Draw, tombolas, and stalls.
We are immensely grateful for the unwavering support of our wonderful community. Your generosity enables us to continue making a difference in the lives of those facing life-limiting illnesses, ensuring that they and their families remain at the heart of everything we do.
Pilgrims Community Fundraising Manager for Ashford, Louise Newman, said:
“We are incredibly grateful to all our wonderful supporters and volunteers for making our ‘sunny’ Summer Fair a success. As a local hospice, we are continually moved by the generosity of our community. Every donated item, every helping hand — together, they make a significant difference to our patients and their families.”
Special thanks to AnnMarie Fuggle from Sandyacres Sports and Social Club who donated the use of the venue and supported the event from start to finish.
Over 90 volunteers came together before, during, and after the event to ensure its success. We are especially grateful for their continued support.
From one community to another, thank you. Your support ensures that our families continue to receive the care, compassion, and dignity they deserve during challenging times.
Pilgrims Christmas Fair Saturday 16 November 2024 at Grosvenor Hall, Ashford
Pilgrims Hospices is a local charity dedicated to providing compassionate end-of-life care and support to patients and their families across East Kent. Through their various programs and events, they strive to create a supportive and caring environment for all those they serve.
18th March 2024
Finding purpose and fulfilment: Lizzie’s journey at Pilgrims Hospices
Within the embrace of Pilgrims Hospices in Ashford, amidst the corridors, therapy rooms, and family areas, a beacon of warmth and compassion shines through the dedicated efforts of individuals like Lizzie Threlfall.
Lizzie, a vibrant and empathetic 25-year-old, is not just another student on placement; she’s a testament to the transformative power of heartfelt care and genuine dedication.
With a Psychology First Class Honours Degree already under her belt and now pursuing a Master’s in Social Work at the University of Kent, Lizzie found herself drawn to Pilgrims Hospices for her first placement.
Hailing from Maidstone, the opportunity to immerse herself in the hospice’s social work team felt like fate knocking at her door.
“I was a little apprehensive at first,” Lizzie admits, reflecting on her initial impressions. “You have your own image of a hospice before you’ve been involved with one. It was totally new to me. But I thought, why not give it a go?”
From the moment she stepped through the doors, Lizzie was enveloped by a sense of belonging. The warmth of the team and the genuine welcome she received dispelled any doubts she had.
“I was taken by surprise, very much so,” she shares. “I never expected to feel so drawn to working here. In fact, I don’t want my placement to end.”
“Each day is different,” she says with a smile. “You never know what each new day will bring, and I love that.”
What struck Lizzie most was the stark contrast between Pilgrims Hospices and other environments she had encountered.
“Most areas are very procedural,” she explains, “but here, it’s much softer. You have the real opportunity to become a genuine social worker, putting the person at the centre of all you do.”
The diversity of experiences at Pilgrims Hospices has been a revelation for Lizzie.
“Each day is different,” she says with a smile. “You never know what each new day will bring, and I love that.”
Lizzie’s enthusiasm for her work is contagious, spreading even to her fellow students. “I’ve been sharing my experiences with them,” she says, “and they’re amazed at the depth of learning and emotional connection we foster here.”
Indeed, Lizzie’s journey at Pilgrims Hospices has been one of growth and enlightenment. She speaks passionately about the invaluable tools she’s gained, particularly in communication.
“Patients have so many different issues to deal with,” she explains. “Being able to effectively communicate and advocate for them is crucial.”
“I never considered palliative social work before,” she admits, “but now I can’t imagine being anywhere else.”
But beyond the skills and knowledge acquired, it’s the sense of purpose and fulfilment that resonates most deeply with Lizzie.
“Working here has reaffirmed my passion for helping others,” she reflects. “It’s not a depressing place, as some may assume. It’s a happy and safe environment, where everyone is supported.”
As Lizzie looks ahead to completing her Master’s and embarking on her career as a qualified social worker, her heart remains with Pilgrims Hospices.
“I never considered palliative social work before,” she admits, “but now I can’t imagine being anywhere else.”
With gratitude in her heart and determination in her stride, Lizzie Threlfall is not just a social work placement student; she’s a shining example of the profound impact one individual can have in the lives of others.
And as she dreams of joining the Pilgrims’ team permanently, there’s no doubt that her journey has only just begun.
If you’re interested in learning more about the many roles on offer at Pilgrims Hospices, check out our current vacanciesand volunteer roles.
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to thousands of people in east Kent each year who are living with life-limiting conditions. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Canterbury, Thanet and Ashford. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
4th July 2023
Sunflower Memories appeal to bloom again in hospice gardens
Pilgrims Hospices launch Sunflower Memories Appeal 2023, supporters are welcome to attend the remembrance events on 22 July, to celebrate the lives of loved ones and relive memories, with music and refreshments in the hospice gardens at Canterbury, Ashford and Thanet.
The leading provider of end-of-life care services in east Kent, is delighted to announce the appeal has now reached its 10th year of raising funds and awareness; it serves as a poignant tribute to cherished memories, while celebrating the spirit of compassion and care.
Pilgrims Hospices Nurse, Simone with Sunflower art
Each year the hospices offer individuals and communities an opportunity to visit the hospice gardens; to come together, and remember their loved ones, while making a positive difference in the lives of others. This year’s appeal is set to be even more remarkable, as the appeal donations over the past 10 years will reach in excess of £380,000, providing exceptional end-of-life care for thousands of people in the local community. All are welcome to donate to dedicate a sunflower in memory of a cherished person. Each sunflower represents a heartfelt tribute to those who are no longer with us, but whose memories continue to shine brightly. Each participant will have a sunflower marker dedicated and personalised, symbolising their support for Pilgrims Hospices and the meaningful impact they are making.
The hospices’ Supporter Relations team will transcribe the names of those to be remembered, on to each sunflower, thereafter they will be prominently displayed in the hospice garden of choice, creating a vibrant display for people to visit on the Sunflower days. The Sunflowers will remain in the gardens through to the end of August, or can be collected on the days as a keepsake.
To take part in Sunflower Memories this year, simply call Pilgrims Supporter Relations team on 01227 782066 and let them know you would like to remember with a sunflower. By making a donation for your sunflower you will be helping others who need our care and their families.
Ellie Cane, Pilgrims Individual Giving Manager said: “This appeal provides a special opportunity for people to honour and remember their loved ones, while helping Pilgrims continue to deliver outstanding care for patients and their families.
This beautiful event allows us to spend time with supporters, old and new, sharing news on Pilgrims Hospices care and services, as we move forward, continue to expand, and improve our facilities to help even more people.”
This year these very special days will take place on Saturday 22 July from 10am – 2pm; Pilgrims staff and volunteers will welcome visitors to share memories, and celebrate in the sunshine. To help celebrate this special 10 years of Sunflower Memoires, the Wellbeing Team will be attending, displaying some of the beautiful sunflower themed artwork created by patients in the Therapy Centres.
Billy Williams, Wellbeing Lead, said: “When patients attend groups such as ‘Time to Create’, they can relax in a friendly supportive environment, talk to like-mined people openly, and discuss the concerns freely. Trying something new or rekindling some skills that have been forgotten can be excellent therapy, we know this, the chatter and laughter that can be heard at the groups is fantastic, and we encourage staff from all areas of the charity to come and get involved, chat with our patients, and enjoy doing something creative.
Wellbeing Sunflowers 7
Wellbeing Sunflowers 6
Wellbeing Sunflowers 4
Wellbeing Sunflower 12
“Some of our ‘Time to Create’ patients have also been growing Sunflowers from seed, that will form part of the displays for everyone to enjoy on the day.
Pilgrims rely heavily on the generosity of their supporters to continue delivering exceptional care to patients, and their families. Your donations will directly impact lives, ensuring they can provide comfort, dignity, and support when it is needed most.
To find out more or get involved, visit pilgrimshospices.org/sunflowers, e-mail: [email protected], or call our friendly Supporter Relations team on 01227 782 062
Pilgrims Hospices is a leading charity dedicated to providing outstanding end-of-life care, and support to individuals with life-limiting illnesses. With a team of compassionate professionals, Pilgrims ensures that patients and their families receive exceptional physical, emotional, and spiritual care, throughout their journey. Funds raised through the Sunflower Memories Appeal will directly support the wide range of services offered by the charity, including specialised nursing care, emotional support, and practical assistance. These vital resources enable patients to live their lives to the fullest, surrounded by love, dignity, and compassion, until the end.
With your support, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of those facing life-limiting illnesses and their families.
11th April 2023
UNFRAMED mural festival and art trail arrives in Ashford
Follow the Ashford UNFRAMED 2023 art trail this April half term, and be amazed by the murals created by national and local artists, who have transformed blank walls in Ashford town centre, into a sea of colour and creativity.
Kate Duddell from Pilgrims’ fundraising team with Chris Dixon from Ashford Borough Council / Mural art by Will Redgrove on Pilgrims’ Ashford General shop
Sue Sharp with artist Will Redgrove
At the UNFRAMED launch, Sue Sharp, Pilgrims Hospices Director of Income Generation and Marketing, met mural artist Will Redgrove, painter of Pilgrims Hospices shop on Castle Street with his interpretation of the work of Pilgrims. The masterpiece depicts three blue tits representing the three Pilgrims Hospices; a ribbon in flight within a field of bluebells, forget-me-nots and sunflowers. A meaningful and peaceful representation of everlasting love, memory and care, which, is at the heart of Pilgrims Hospices’ vision.
Visitors to the festival can download a map, scan a QR code at each site, or pick up a physical map from Coachworks, Low Key Tap Room, Picturehouse or Made in Ashford and wander around the town centre immersing themselves in the street art and learning more about each piece.
The mural festival is running from Saturday 1 April to Sunday 16 April 2023, with arts workshops, street dance and film screenings available to all visitors.
Keep up with all the latest updates as they happen and watch the progress of the artwork being created by following @ashfordunframedon Instagram.
Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of local people each year, free of charge, during the most challenging time in their lives. They offer care and support in people’s own homes, in the community and in their inpatient units as well as running a 24-hour advice line.
24th March 2023
Penny praises Pilgrims Hospices as “a place to live, a caring community”
Penny Murphy from Tenterden was diagnosed with colon and liver cancer in 2020 and given 18 months to live; she began treatment and surpassed her initial prognosis.
In January 2023, Penny decided to stop treatment to focus on her quality of life and make the most of the time she has.
Pilgrims Hospices is now supporting Penny to live well in each moment and plan for her future, enabling her to spend more time making precious memories with loved ones.
A former nanny, Penny is described by friends as “beautiful, incredibly funny, silly, adorable, and an absolute ‘one-in-a-million’ lady”. They are currently running a GoFundMe campaign to help Penny tick important goals off her bucket list, including a trip to Italy with her husband, John.
Penny said: “I’d been living with cancer for two and half years before I was referred to Pilgrims. I was so isolated at home. I dreaded the idea of hospice care, but when I arrived for my first holistic assessment, it didn’t feel like a place to die – it is a place to live, a caring community. I was greeted so warmly. The reception staff knew who I was and who I was there to see.
“Pilgrims sorted everything for me, they are so helpful and compassionate. I was able to speak with someone immediately; the whole team is efficient. I met Alison Wiltshire, Community Nursing Team Leader and Palliative Specialist Nurse (PSN), and we discussed my history and sorted out my disability badge, benefits, pain medication and future wishes. It’s the first time since being diagnosed that I’ve felt in control and empowered to make decisions about my care, which is phenomenal.”
Alison Wiltshire, Community Nursing Team Leader and PSN, with Penny
A common perception of palliative care is that it takes place only on hospice wards, but the majority of Pilgrims patients are cared for within the east Kent community. In 2022-23, 2,426 patients have had input from the clinical team – PSNs, doctors and Advanced Clinical Practitioners (ACPs) – in the community, including in patients’ own homes.
Penny
Alison added: “Bringing patients into clinic allows them to discover what a hospice feels like, and can allay fears and anxiety about what hospices are. Having someone like Penny experience our community services and be willing to spread the word to encourage others is just what we need. It helps to dispel myths about hospice care.”
Penny is currently accessing Pilgrims’ spiritual care and complementary therapy services. Her dogs, Ruger and Elsa, can also come to the hospice with her.
She continued: “I’m dying – I’m under no illusion about that – but Pilgrims gives me peace of mind; it’s so reassuring knowing that my future care will be on my terms. I think this is really important.
“To anyone being offered hospice care, I would say: “Go for a visit, talk to team, try it out”. You’ll be surprised how positive it is; it’s nothing at all to be scared of.”
Pilgrims Hospices cares for thousands of local people each year, free of charge, during the most challenging time in their lives. They offer care and support in people’s own homes, in the community and in their inpatient units as well as running a 24-hour advice line.
15th March 2023
Fantastic fundraiser Eleanor raises over £5,000 for Pilgrims Hospices
Eleanor Davies from Ashford hopes to inspire other children to fundraise for charity. Aged just 7-years-old, Eleanor recently raised an incredible £5,401.01 for local hospice care.
Eleanor raised funds over the festive period in 2022 and also took part in Santas on the Harbour! in December 2022 with her mum, Charlotte, who is a Trainee Advanced Clinical Practitioner at Pilgrims Hospices.
Eleanor and Charlotte at Santas on the Harbour! 2022 in Folkestone
Young fundraiser Eleanor said: “I wanted to fundraise for Pilgrims because it’s kind and thoughtful to raise money for people who help others who are poorly. It means they can buy some new equipment for people to use. My mummy works at the Ashford hospice and she tries to help people feel a little bit better. I think everyone who works at Pilgrims is fantastic!”
Eleanor continued: “I was so proud that I wore my medal to school! I have just joined Brownies, and the fundraising goes towards my Charities badge, which is very exciting.”
“I want to say an enormous thank you to all my family and friends who donated and sponsored me and came to Folkestone on the day of the run, to cheer me on! It was really tiring, but so much fun and I would love to do a Pilgrims run again. I would also like to say thank you to Pilgrims for all the amazing work they do and for letting me run for them. I am very proud of my mummy for what she does.”
Charlotte added: “I’m so proud of Eleanor; I see first-hand how the money can help people. At 7-years-old, to have raised £5,401.01 is absolutely fantastic and for Eleanor to want to fundraise again is just amazing. She is already asking about her next challenge! Thank you to her sponsors for their generosity. We hope that her story inspires others to fundraise for charity.”
Pilgrims Hospices cares for thousands of local people each year, free of charge, during the most challenging time in their lives. They offer care and support in people’s own homes, in the community and in their inpatient units as well as running a 24-hour advice line.
