Dr Kershaw's joins groundbreaking Hospice UK TV campaign

A Royton Hospice has joined a groundbreaking TV campaign as Oldham’s aging population grows.

Dr Kershaw’s Hospice on Turf Lane, is one of 143 hospices taking part in Hospice UK’s ‘This is Hospice Care’ campaign.  

Aired across major TV channels from Monday, February 17, 2025, the national advert highlights the vital role of hospice care within local communities.  

In Oldham, the number of people aged 65 or above is set to grow by 30 per cent over the next 20 years. To cope with the increased demand, Dr Kershaw’s is inviting people to leave a gift in their will to protect hospice care for future generations. The TV advert features stories inspired by real-life patients and families. 

NHS funds cover only one-third of the costs for the hospice, and it is not exempt from the rise in national insurance contributions. 

Adele Doherty, CEO of Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, said: “Thanks to the incredible support of the Oldham community, our hospice is surviving. 

“But the financial pressure is increasing, and we cannot exist on NHS funding alone. 

“In 2024, 70 per cent of hospices were in a financial deficit. By leaving a gift in their will, people are not only funding medical staff and equipment but helping people to die with compassion and dignity. 

“We are proud to act in alliance with Hospice UK, and we stand by our fellow hospices as we highlight our impact within local communities.” 

By joining the campaign, Dr Kershaw’s hopes to help people understand how to access hospice services. It is estimated that over 100,000 people in the UK die each year needing palliative care but not receiving it. 

Over the last four years, the number of people dying in poverty has increased by 19 per cent. Many people, especially those from minorities or disadvantaged backgrounds, are unaware that hospice care is free. 

Nicola Heppenstall, Community Services Manager at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, said: “One of the perceptions we would like to challenge is that hospice care is paid for by patients and their families. 

“All of our services, including our inpatient unit and wellbeing centre activities, are free to access. To keep them free, we are heavily reliant on fundraising and donations – including gifts in wills.” 

Another misconception is that people can only benefit from onsite hospice care. In 2024, Dr Kershaw’s Hospice cared for 262 patients on its 12-bed inpatient unit. However, its work within the community extended across Oldham and beyond. 

Its Hospice at Home service, which supports people who want to die at home, included 2,513 visits by experienced nurses.

A total of 7,285 visits were completed by its Caring Hands healthcare assistants, who help with personal care, medication, toileting, diet and emotional support.

As the only hospice in Oldham, and with more people than ever needing hospice care, Dr Kershaw’s faces increasing running costs.

In 2024, the day rate for keeping the hospice open was £14,358, equating to £5.24 million per year.

To find out more about leaving a gift in your will to Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, visit ww.drkh.org.uk/giftinwill.