Claire’s Year of Hell for the Hospice

St Mary’s Hospice have some truly amazing supporters – but Claire Noble from Barrow is prepared to go to put herself though (some peoples’ idea of) hell in order to raise money for a cause close to her heart. In her own words, Claire shares her remarkable story here: “St Mary’s hospice is an awesome …

Hospice announces the temporary suspension of inpatient admissions

Hospice announces the temporary suspension of inpatient admissions THE chief executive of St Mary’s Hospice in Ulverston, Cumbria, has today announced a temporary suspension of admissions to inpatient beds. Val Stangoe delivered the news to staff this morning, explaining the reason for the decision, which was driven by a shortage of specialist doctors. The hospice …

Royal visit for St Mary’s Living Well Centre

HRH The Earl of Wessex visited staff, volunteers and community groups on Thursday 13th June at St Mary’s Living Well Centre, Barrow-in-Furness to officially open the vital centre. St Mary’s Living Well Centre provides a space for the hospice and other local organisations to provide a range of free activities and services, enabling more people …

Every grain of sand

Read below our CEO Val Stangoe’s thoughts on today’s Dying Matters Theme ‘Diversity and Inclusion at end of life’.   Death comes to everyone. You read it here. No, you won’t be spared because of religion or race, there is no different option depending on income, sex or sexuality. You can’t halt progress and you can’t …

Grieving for a pet

My family role is a proud wife, mum to two teenagers and two Cairn terriers. Working for a hospice I understand life and these times are so precious. In October 2018 our family changed forever when our naughty and loving Cairn Maggie died. It has hurt so much. This character who was a huge part …

Advanced Care Planning

Read below our Legacy and individual giving Fundraiser Geoff Steele’s thoughts on today’s Dying Matters Theme ‘Funeral costs’.    The financial and emotional stress involved in planning a funeral can never be underestimated. Thinking and talking openly about the issues involved along with your personal preferences is essential in ensuring your wishes are met and …