Police in Salford have launched an appeal among officers and staff to raise £3,700 to buy a new bed for St Ann’s Hospice.
The 12-month campaign has already got off to a flying start with almost £1,000 donated in the first few weeks.
The 582-workforce across Salford division are holding monthly fundraising initiatives including a quiz, fitness class, soup day and ‘station donations.’
This involves staff taking used clothes to stations at Swinton, Eccles, Little Hulton and Pendleton for sale in the hospice charity shops.
Superintendent Mark Kenny said: “We’re delighted to support St Ann’s Hospice which has strong links with the local community in Salford and surrounding areas. They provide a fantastic service and this is our way of supporting their vital work with patients and their families.
“Hopefully, we’ll receive enough donations to buy a new bed and can therefore see something tangible from our efforts. We’ve had a terrific response so far and I’m sure everyone will rally round for such a good cause.”
Donations of bread and soup from Heinz and Morrisons prepared by police staff in their own time allowed staff at the GMP Salford headquarters to serve a warming lunch to colleagues in lieu of a donation.
Clinical Services Manager Sian Burgess said: “We have a programme to replace our beds over the next few years, as the specialist beds we have at the hospice only last a certain amount of time with constant use before they cost more in repairs.
“It’s important our patients are as comfortable as possible during their stay and we’re extremely grateful for the kind support of GMP Salford in helping us towards the cost of a new bed.”
From left: St Ann’s Hospice Clinical Services Manager Sian Burgess, PCSO Janet Cassidy, hospice community fundraiser Jill Kirkham and Superintendent Mark Kenny.
