MP Jonathan Reynolds has paid a visit to Willow Wood to express his support for the important role the Hospice plays within the local community.
Mr Reynolds, who is a steadfast ally and advocate of the Hospice, was updated on the vast array of services that Willow Wood offers to his constituents – ranging from Complementary Therapy to confidential one-to-one counselling.
The visit was also a valuable opportunity for staff at the Hospice to talk to the Stalybridge and Hyde MP about the immediate and long-term challenges Willow Wood faces.
After a stroll through the gardens, accompanied by CEO Karen Houlston, Mr Reynolds met with the Chairman of the Board, Philip Millson, and members of the Hospice’s Senior Management Team.
They engaged in an in-depth discussion about the pressing issues arising from the funding crises, which is affecting hospices across Greater Manchester.
Willow Wood Hospice, which celebrates its 25th anniversary next year, needs at least £3.3 million every year to continue providing free, high quality, multi-professional care, support and education to people from across Tameside and Glossop.
Of those costs, around 80 per cent must be raised through the generosity of our local community and support from donors.
The Hospice hopes that Mr Reynolds, who is also Shadow Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, can use his influence in the House of Commons to lobby for a sustainable funding model for hospices.
Karen Houlston, CEO of Willow Wood Hospice, said: “The backing of MPs to help address both the short-term funding deficit hospices are experiencing, and to establish a sustainable, lasting funding structure is crucial, and we are immensely appreciative of Jonathan’s consistent support.”
MP Jonathan Reynolds commented: “I am so proud of all that Willow Wood Hospice achieve and what the Hospice means to the people of our area.
“Their resilience even in the toughest financial challenges is extraordinary. Please continue to support them and their work that brings so much comfort and dignity in the toughest chapters of local lives.”