Tom Redman has signed-up to perform at the Strictly Extravaganza in January 2025 to raise funds for Forest Holme Hospice as a way of honoring his late wife Clare.
Tell us about your challenge for the hospice?
I’ve entered the Strictly Extravaganza 2025 – this is a fundraising event inspired by the popular television show ‘Strictly Come Dancing’. The event brings together entertainment and philanthropy, as participants step onto the dance floor to showcase their new skills while raising funds for Forest Holme Hospice It's an evening of glamour, excitement, and community spirit, all aimed at supporting vital local services
Stepping onto the dance floor is a whole new world for me, and the thought of performing in front of an audience is both thrilling and extremely daunting! I'll be teaming up with a professional dancer (Olivia Smorga) to learn my routine and over the coming months I'll be training hard and probably making a lot of missteps along the way. But every stumble is a reminder of why I'm doing this: to support Forest Holme Hospice
This event brings our community together in a unique way, allowing us to celebrate life, embrace new challenges, and contribute to a cause that deeply resonates with many of us
It's not just about dancing; it's about making a meaningful difference while remembering those we love
Why did you do it for Forest Holme?
My connection started when my late wife, Clare, was cared for by the incredible team at Forest Holme Hospice. I witnessed firsthand the compassion and support they provide to patients and their families. To honour her memory and give back to the place that helped us so much, I've decided to take on this challenge
But for me, the Strictly Extravaganza is more than just a fundraising event dancing has never been my strong suit in fact, I've always been the one
with two left feet at family gatherings, but that's exactly why this challenge is so meaningful to me Stepping out of my comfort zone to learn something completely new feels like a fitting tribute It's a way to celebrate life, embrace new experiences, and raise much-needed funds for the hospice
StrictlyRehearsals
What does Forest Holme mean to you?
Forest Holme Hospice holds a profoundly special place in my heart When Clare was facing her toughest days, the hospice became more than just a medical facility The staff provided exceptional care that went beyond physical needs; they offered emotional support, compassion, and genuine kindness that enveloped our entire family They were there during the most challenging moments, offering comfort and understanding that made an immeasurable difference in our lives.
To me, Forest Holme is a beacon of hope and humanity It's a place where dignity and compassion are not just ideals but daily practices The hospice gave us peace in a tumultuous time, and for that, I am very grateful
Participating in the Strictly Extravaganza is my way of giving back to an institution that helped us so much when we needed it most Forest Holme isn't just a hospice; it's a community of amazing people who make the hardest parts of life a little bit easier
What would you say to someone considering supporting the charity?
Simple really: Do it! They need all the help they can get and the cause is so much more worthy than anything else. I invite you all to join me on this journey whether by offering words of encouragement, attending the event, or contributing to the fundraising efforts. Together, we can make a difference and ensure the hospice continues to be a place of comfort and care for those who need it most
Strictly Strictly Strictly
EXTRAVAGANZA
Join us for our Strictly Extravaganza on Saturday, 25th January at the Lighthouse in Poole.
Our dancers are ready and raring to hit the dance floor to entertain you for the evening, all in support of Forest Holme Hospice Charity.
Champagne Recep Entertainm
Standard and VIP tickets available
Scan the QR code to book your tickets.
Hospice News
Au revoir to Kathy
Staff and volunteers recently said a tearful goodbye to Kathy Lett, who had been a counsellor at Forest Holme for 16 years
(see p21)
Kathy was a much-loved member of staff and highly-respected counsellor, offering hope d
Makeover surprise
The charity team surprised our team of therapists with a makeover of their complementary therapy room to create a calming and inviting space for patients at the hospice, as well as those undergoing cancer treatments in Poole Hospital.
MP visit
Forest Holme welcomed newly-elected MP, Neil Duncan-Jordan, for a tour of the hospice to showcase the important work we do across his Poole constituency
Neil took time to meet with staff, learning first-hand about both the challenges and positive outcomes of palliative care.
Going For Bust
Going for Bust generously donated £5,000, which will make a huge difference in providing complementary therapies and emotional support for women living with breast cancer
Hospice News
UHD awards
Congratulations to all our staff nominees who were presented with Highly Commended certificates at the University Hospitals Dorset Awards
Gold gong
Forest Holme scooped the top Gold Winner prize in the Community Support category at the Poole Business Awards held at Bournemouth University.
Making a splash
Corporate charity partners Lemur Attractions hosted a special event for Forest Holme staff, volunteers, family and friends at Splashdown
Alumni acknowledgement
Charity CEO, Hannah O’ Hare, received a High Commendation from Bournemouth University in the ‘Enriching Society’ category as part of their annual Alumni Awards.
Payment details
Total payable £ :
Boost your donation by 25%, at no cost to you.
Yes, I want my gift and any future gifts to go further
I am a UK taxpayer and would like Forest Holme Hospice Charity to claim gift aid on my support I confirm that I am happy to treat all donations I have made to Forest Holme Hospice Charity for the past 4 years and any future donations I make as Gift Aid donations until I notify you otherwise. I understand that if I pay less Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax than the amount of Gift Aid claimed on all my donations in that tax year, it is my responsibility to pay any difference.
Signed Date
Return completed forms to:
Meet the new Community Nurse
Helena is one of two charity-funded Community Specialist Palliative Care Nurses, who have recently joined the Community Team at Forest Holme.
Helena talks about her new role and career journey so far.
Tell us about the role of the Community Specialist Palliative Care Nurse at Forest Holme?
As Community Specialist Palliative Care Nurses, we support patients in their own environment to manage complex symptoms, above and beyond those the GP and District Nursing teams are comfortable with These symptoms could be multiple and either physical or psychological
What is the difference between care in the community and care on the ward in the hospice itself?
The community is challenging in the respect of you are working autonomously, making decisions and taking appropriate action with GPs, District Nurses, etc On the ward it is nice that patients have nursing support present 24 hours of the day; however in the community, the majority of the time they are either with family, a carer or on their own
Both areas can be unpredictable, however the community poses new challenges to me, such as what other services are available in the area and how they can also help provide support
You’ve worked at Forest Holme for 3 years – tell us more about your career journey to reach this point?
I qualified in September 2019 and began working on a Head and Neck Surgical ward; I spent just over a year there. I then jumped at the opportunity to work at Forest Holme to cover maternity leave in January 2021.
I have worked here ever since and I have loved every minute I have spent half my time on the ward and half my time in the community team in a developmental role As of October 2024, I am now a permanent member of the community team
What is your favourite part of being a Community Specialist Palliative Care Nurse?
I really enjoy seeing patients in their own home and environment; it's where they are most comfortable
I like that as a team we are able to support people in making decisions about where they would like to be for their end of life
Corporate Support
MSP Capital Ltd
MSP Capital chose Forest Holme Hospice as its Charity of the Year for 2024 and sponsored Tie A Yellow Ribbon in June, as well as volunteering at the event on the day.
The Lord Nelson
Colten Care
Colten Care generously agreed to be Headline Sponsors for the Strictly Extravaganza and organised a launch party for the newly chosen contestants.
Gallagher
Staff from the Poole office of Gallagher, who are charity partners for 2024, completed an 18 mile charity walk from Branksome Dean to Hengistbury Head and back, raising £6,040 in the process
The Lord Nelson hosted a music event on Poole Quay in support of Forest Holme and Teddy Rocks, raising £2,081 to be shared between both charities. Scan for Corporate Info
Corporate Support
Dawsongroup
Dawsongroup kindly supported our Charity Golf Day as headline sponsors, as well as participating in the event, which raised £3,000
Coles Miller
Norco Composites
Norco Composites raised £791 at their Family Afternoon event held at Lytchett Minster Rugby Club
LV=
LV= General Insurance Charity Committee (Bournemouth Branch) very generously donated £250 worth of stock in memory of Karen Last for the ward’s Jolly Trolley, which allows our patients to enjoy a little tipple with their evening meals
Corporate supporters Coles Miller Solicitors hosted a charity quiz, which saw 18 teams compete for the coverted trophy, helping to raise over £1,500.
Community Support
Ascot Ladies Night
Good Vibrations proudly represented Forest Holme Hospice Charity and sold raffle tickets at Lytchett Minster Rugby Club's Ascot Ladies Night, which raised £1,005.
Afternoon Tea
Great Hair Chop
Ryan Rawlins raised £744 through his Great Hair Chop in memory of his partner’s mum, Julie, who was cared for by our Community Team.
Jan Reynolds once again organised the annual Wimborne St Giles Tea, which raised £1,774 through delicious home-baked cakes and a tombola
Phil Fest
‘Phil Fest’, a garden festival organised by the family of Phil Ballard to honour his memory and continue his legacy, raised £1,725.
Poole Academy of Dance
Poole Academy of Dance raised £2,000 through their 'Inspirations' showcase held at Lighthouse, Poole
Lasting Powers of Attorney
Christmas season will soon be upon us, and we’ll look forward to spending it with loved ones. At this wonderful time of year, you’d be forgiven for not wanting to think about the future, when you may need someone you trust to manage your affairs on your behalf But it’s an important decision to make
Have you thought about Powers of Attorney?
Lasting powers of attorney (LPAs) enable you to appoint someone to manage your affairs if you become unable to do so They are extremely useful legal documents that can save your loved ones a great deal of time, expense and heartache if you lose the mental capacity to make important decisions. When would be the best time to put it into place?
It is vitally important that you make your LPA before you lose your mental capacity.
By creating power of attorney early, you can ensure that your attorney(s) will be able to act quickly and efficiently, while giving you peace of mind that your affairs will be managed exactly as you wish.
Will you lose control of your
life?
Not at all Powers of Attorney won’t be put in place until, legally, as stated under the Mental Capacity Act 2005, a person is considered to lack capacity if they are unable to make a specific decision for themselves’
You will have the choice as to when the document can be used by your attorneys – you may elect that it can only be used after you have lost capacity or it can be used when you are well. It is often useful to elect for the latter as should you have an extended stay in hospital you may not have lost mental capacity and require someone to assist you with your day-to-day affairs while you are not at home
Kerry Hay, Associate Solicitor at Coles Miller in the Will and Probate department, agrees that early planning is best:
“Creating lasting powers of attorney doesn’t have to mean losing autonomy – it’s an insurance policy for your health, wellbeing and assets. Creating lasting powers of attorney can provide you with peace of mind that someone you trust will be able to take important decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself
Our solicitors are here to work with you, and those close to you, to ensure that your affairs are in place for the future.
Come and speak to us at Coles Miller for specialist legal advice on setting up lasting powers of attorney (and reviewing existing enduring Powers of Attorney).”
Young Fundraisers
Ava and Molly organised a fundraising stall at ‘Phil Fest’ in memory of Ava's grandad, Phil Ballard, raising £101
Poppy hosted a fundraising stall featuring a raffle, sweet treats and handmade bracelets, which raised £500 in memory of her beloved grandmother, Dymphna.
Students from Glenmoor and Winton Academies schools participated in a Sandwalk event, walking from Boscombe Pier to Southbourne and back to raise vital funds for Forest Holme and MYTIME Young Carers, donating a total of £3,609 to the hospice
8-year-old Henry Corke took on the 10k Race for Life with his Mum, and raised £50 in memory of his grandma, Debbie.
7-year-old Bessie who made and sold bracelets and sweet cones at ‘Colleyfest’ - a family festival that friends organised –raising £45 in memory of her beloved Great Nanny, Pam
7-year-old Ellison set up his lemonade stand at home and raised £441 in memory of his beloved grandma, Lally
Kathy’s goodbye
Kathy Lett, who has been a counsellor at Forest Holme for 16 years, recently said goodbye to the hospice to enjoy semi-retirement and spend more time with friends and family.
Before she left, she took time to reflect on her time at the hospice
Can you tell us about your journey and what led you to become a counsellor working with serious illness and bereavement?
A life-changing experience that happened to me many years ago has led me down this career pathway. After the death of my first husband, I experienced a depth of pain that I had never felt before, which left me with the desire to make meaning out of it, by somehow using it in a positive way
What inspired you to work specifically in a hospice setting?
Although my husband did not die at Forest Holme, their counselling service did provide me with psychological support It was as a result of the fantastic care and the quality of the therapy that I received from the counselling service then, that showed me the potential power of personal therapy in bringing about change growth and healing As time went on, I was left with the desire to provide a similar experience, for others finding themselves going through their own difficult times.
Is it true that you used winnings from Deal or No Deal to fund your training?
Yes, this was in 2006, I saw a TV advertisement inviting people to apply for the show and thought, why not give it a try? I had already qualified as a counsellor but was still working towards my accreditation
My winnings provided the funding to enable me to continue my studies and complete the required volunteer hours I needed to work towards my accreditation
s a counsellor at Forest Holme for the past 16 years, I have also learned so much and gained so much experience from the patients and families that I have had the privilege to support through their own difficult and traumatic times
Because illness can be unpredictable, as can feelings and emotions, I certainly learned how important it was to stay open and flexible to the changing needs of the patients and families that I have provided psychological support to over the years, whether due to a cancer diagnosis, other life-limiting illnesses or bereavement.
As you reflect on 16 years at Fores Holme, what have been your stan memories?
There are so many but one of the standouts was when I got the job! a lot of blood sweat and tears
I felt immensely proud and always have, to work in this role at Forest Holme, with the patients and families connected to Forest Holme It has felt a true privilege to have been a part of their support network, and to have worked along-side many fantastic colleagues and friends I will certainly miss working at Forest Holme What would you say to someone who has recently been bereaved or diagnosed with a serious illness, who might be considering counselling?
I would encourage you to reach out and access the support People can often be shocked at how they feel, feelings through grief due to illness or bereavement can be unpredictable, overwhelming and raw Feelings can change from hour to hour - let alone day by day! Counselling may help to normalise some of your feelings, as well as to provide you with a confidential space to talk freely about whatever you need to with someone who understands
It can feel a bit daunting to make that first contact – but please don’t let that stop you! There is a quote by Martin Luther King Jnr -
“You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.”
BereavementCafé POOLE
An informal space for those navigating the
complexities of loss
Every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month 10am until 11.30am
Café @ Lighthouse, 21 Kingland Road, Poole BH15 1UG
Bereavement Café irrespective of any connection to Forest Holme everyone, is open to
Fundraising for Forest Holme
by Good Vibrations
Seven ‘wobblers’ from Good Vibrations took on a 15,000 feet skydive in memory of family and friends that have needed care at Forest Holme Hospice, with Kayliegh especially determined to fundraise in memory of her mum, who was just 55-years-old when she died. Tell us about your challenge for the hospice
Our challenge to do the skydive was a team effort from seven of us wobblers from Good Vibrations Poole We all wanted to sign up for Forest Holme Hospice our number one charity we like to support
Some of us were well up for doing it but some of us were a little nervous but we all wanted an experience in our life and to do something for others Cherry and Sharon had already done a skydive and were excited to do it again!
Why did you do it for Forest Holme?
Kayliegh particularly was even more determined to do the skydive to fundraise as she experienced the sa time of the passing of her mum, who was only 55 years old. When Kayliegh she felt even closer to her mum
What does Forest Holme mean to you?
We know th staff are sec dealing wit care Even t are taken c and after th their loved nurses are none of us do So, to d How lucky fun day wit
What would you say to someone considering supporting the charity?
Supporting the charity, you will feel so proud and by helping others is one of the best ways to make yourself happier and healthier too You feel a sense of great pride and satisfaction in the knowledge that you have helped in some small way Give it a go if you have the opportunity
My Befriender experience
Bereavement Befrienders is a service available to those who have lost a loved one under the care of Forest Holme Hospice, with dedicated trained Befriender volunteers providing a compassionate listening ear and confidential space where people can freely explore their thoughts and emotions regarding bereavement.
Josie, from Bere Regis, lost her partner Shane in November 2023 at the age of 61, describing him as a hardworking, cheeky, loving gentle man who was dearly loved by friends and family. She said, “I dearly miss him but my greatest comfort is to know that his life was not about how many breaths he took but many special moments and memories even on a bad day that take your breath away. ”
with loss and bereavement
Describe your experience of the service and has chatting to a befriender helped you?
Talking and sharing experiences helps get all those thoughts out that are a constant chatterbox voice in your head Also, as you are with like minded people who just get it, you don’t feel like at work, when you are forever talking about your loved one and you get the feeling sometimes they want you to change the record!
Josie recently used the Bereavement Befriender service and describes her experience of using the service What would you say to someone who might be considering using the befriender service?
Tell us how you found out about the befriender service
I found out about the befriender service after I attended the ‘Living with Loss’ presentation by Dania (counsellor). I heard about Dania via my colleague at work whose husband sadly died I don’t know how I would have coped without all the services of the counselling team, befrienders and bereavement cafe Of course, I guess I would have carried on, but suffering in silence trying to deal
Absolutely reach out to the befriender service, you have nothing to loose but everything to gain All the talking in the world will never bring your loved one back but to know you are not on your own but amongst people, friends, who get it, helps you to move forward
Scan for info
The Forest Holme Couch to 5k running group is open to all fitness levels Participants must be 18 and over. Every Monday 6:30pm - 7:30pm 10 week programme
Starts
Monday 13th January
Poole Park
Scan here for more info and to book your place £23.00
