Hospice's crisis fundraiser amid £100k shortfall

People have two days to raise £100,000 to help keep a much-loved hospice afloat.

A hospice has launched at 36-hour fundraising event in an effort to balance its budget in the wake of increasing demand and unexpected costs.

Somerset's St Margaret's Hospice, in Taunton, has launched a 36-hour fundraising event in an effort to balance its budget in the wake of increasing demand and unexpected costs. Supporters have until Friday evening, to raise the money through crowdfunding. There will also be sponsored walks and art auctions.

Joanne Hall, the hospice's fundraising manager, said: "Demand on our care is growing, costs are increasing, and funding is difficult to secure."

It is thought the charity needs about £12m a year to run its services, but Ms Hall said centres all over the UK were facing "new challenges".

She added the increase to National Insurance alone is costing an additional £300,000 this year, which was not part of the charity's initial budgets a year ago.

"That was something we didn't anticipate, and couldn't have known when we set the budgets," she said.

The other £200,000 shortfall from National Insurance can be covered by its network of shops and legacy donors.

It is hoped from Thursday to Friday evening, the public, as well as a number of corporate partners, will raise the £100,000 it needs through the charity's fundraiser, which it has called Every Moment Counts.

Ms Hall said she is "confident" the hospice can reach its fundraising target, describing it as a "real challenge".

There is also match funding available up to £50,000 which has been provided by "generous supporters".

Supporters can donate online, or head into shops across the county.

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