Chesterfield’s Labour county councillors and its MP have rallied behind Ashgate Hospicecare to help it survive the Covid-19 crisis.
The hospice’s fundraising – including through its shops and events – has been severely curtailed by the lockdowns. This has left the charity with a £2.4m reduction in its income while demand for its service has increased.
Councillors responded by contributing over £35,000 from Derbyshire County Council’s Community Leadership Scheme, with every Chesterfield Labour county councillor providing support.
Toby Perkins MP also raised the need for financial help to protect the vital service with ministers and health service commissioners.
County Councillor Mick Wall said: “When I saw the news about the financial impact that the Covid pandemic was having on Ashgate Hospicecare, I contacted the charity to see how we – as local councillors – could help.
“We had to help because of how much Ashgate Hospicecare does for our communities.”
Barbara-Anne Walker, Ashgate Hospicecare’s chief executive, said: “We are incredibly grateful for the support offered to us by the members of the Community Leadership Scheme.
“This donation will help us to continue delivering our care over the coming winter months and allow our patients and their families to make the most of the time they have together.”