I first came into contact with Primrose Hospice in 2021, after my Mum was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease I was caring for my Mum alongside my family, working as an Oncology Nurse Specialist and had two little boys depending on me. I was at breaking poin when I was referred to the Family Suppor
The world was at the height of Covid. Tha Mum’s diagnosis, produced a whirlwind of emotions. I attended face-to-face counselling sessions; that precious hour was pure relief I could talk freely, cry my heart out, be angry with the world, unpick family dynamics and walk away feeling energised, ready to tackle the week ahead.
£35 £35
Could pay for a patient to be assessed by our skilled clinical team to identify the care and support needed for the individual.
My oldest son Freddie wasn’t coping with Granny’s diagnosis; the amazing children’s team stepped in. Their time with Freddie was invaluable They created games, ideas and solutions to help with his fear of MND and the changes in Granny
My Mum sadly lost her battle with MND in January 2022. Nothing fully prepares you for the loss of a loved one. The team were immediately there for us I received more counselling, group counselling, reiki and Freddie and George have made memory boxes and attend the Explorations groups.
In January 2024 I was discharged. This day would not have come without the amazing support, guidance and belief from all the individuals who have supported me on my bereavement journey. You walk into the Coppice Centre and you are greeted with warmth from the amazing reception volunteers, smiles from behind every door and cuddles from Trevor the dog. You are never alone on this journey at Primrose
I hope that by reading this issue of the bulletin you will be able to learn more about the vital care and support Primrose provide for patients and families during extremely difficult times. Primrose relies on help and kindness of our community to raise the income needed to keep their doors open There are lots of ways you could support Primrose, from donating to their shops, making a regular donation or volunteering your time. Please do consider supporting them so they can help more families like mine.
Becky Henman
Primrose Hospice & Family Support Centre
£160 £160
Could provide a child or young person with specialised support from our expert children’s Family Support Tea
£240 £240
Could support one patient to visit our Day Hospice for two days. Including; transport, medical care, a nutritious meal and access to our support groups.
£1.95m
Is how much it costs each year to fund our services, with only 14% being received via statutory routes.
A Magnificent Mosaic
Over the last year Jackie Nash – local Mosaic artist has been creating a beautiful mosaic which is now on display at Primrose Hospice & Family Support Centre.
We spoke to Jackie about her work and what inspired the piece: “My current work is predominantly inspired by the natural world, particularly the flora and fauna I see in the fields around where I live when I’m walking my dogs
It’s with thanks to the generous sponsorship from Arts Council England, plus support from The Bromsgrove Society, Elliott Nash Ltd and Marmox UK that I have been very fortunate to work alongside Primrose Hospice to produce a Summer garden mosaic inspired by a lovely book called ‘Water bugs and Dragonflies’
This is a story told to the children and young people at the Hospice as part of their support to help them process what happens when someone they love is diagnosed with a life-limiting illness or someone they love dies It's hoped the mosaic will be a way to engage with children and patients to support their services
The Hospice patients also suggested imagery for the mosaic, such as butterflies, primroses and dragonflies, making this a personal project for everyone at the Hospice I’ve also had the opportunity to work with the children, patients and staff to teach them how to make mosaics, which was really enjoyable. Collaboratively we’ve made several mosaics which are now on display at the Hospice.
I’m genuinely grateful to have had the chance to work alongside everyone at the Hospice, as it has been an immensely fulfilling experience for me.”
Please do pop into the Hospice to see the mosaic for yourself. From everyone at Primrose Hospice we’d like to thank Jackie for her hard work and dedication in creating this beautiful mosaic which will be admired and shared for many years to come
Living Well with Primrose
“Primrose is somewhere that wouldn't work without everybody. There's no question of that. It's a people place, run by people, for people.”– Paul Whitehouse, Living Well Service Volunteer.
Do you know about our Living Well Service? This support is designed for people with a life-limiting illness and families in North East Worcestershire
Our support is aimed at enhancing your wellbeing and increasing your happiness, whilst meeting your individual needs. Whether they be physical, psychological, emotional or spiritual.
We spoke to Paul Whitehouse who kindly volunteers his time every week to run our popular art has come full circle through Primrose, from being supported as a e-changing heart surgery to then go on to become a volunteer.
ome to volunteer with Primrose through a rather unique door. I was rmerly a patient, as I had serious heart failure. I had been given three months to live and it was suggested I came to visit Primrose I wasn’t sure at first, but it was the best thing I ever did
I was at a point in my illness where my cardiologist said, there is some clever people at the QE Hospital fitting electric hearts for people, which I could have, and I thought I've got nothing to lose So I had the procedure and I now carry around a battery pack and run on electric! I always said to my family, if I get through this I’m going to come back and volunteer at Primrose – so that’s what I did!”
ted volunteering with the Art Group?
“Initially I was asked to help run a card group for a group of gentlemen, which I did for a while and then I went on to run the art group on a Tuesday with support from other volunteers. I’ve always painted even when I was a soldier I've always found the medium of art, be it a cartoon painting or sculpture so enthralling and so rewarding It doesn't really matter what it looks like, whether you can only manage a stickman or a Goya, everyone is welcome at our art group.
I’ve been a volunteer for around five years now and I look forwa coming every week It’s lovely to see people having fun and als getting something out of it For me it’s about the friendships and camaraderie the patients form from coming to the Hospice. The painting and drawing is almost secondary!
I always say we may not all be in the same boat, but we're certainly on the same stream Sometimes in the group and indeed in other groups, you can say things that you wouldn't sa to your family. I think the fact that everybody including me, hav been a patient can begin to understand what others are going through.
Living Well with Primrose
Primrose Hospice offers support groups and sessions aimed at improving your mental health and helping you find ways to cope better with your symptoms to enable you to manage and maintain your quality of life.
As well as our Art Group, our Living Well Service offers groups like: Yoga, Ta Therapeutic Singing, Breathwork and much more. We also offer one-to-one therapies such as reflexology, hypnotherapy, massage, and Reiki.
Could you pick out a favourite mome since volunteering at Primrose?
“There have been a couple of patien the group who I've seen flourish. One I remember was quite withdrawn with regarding art, but over time he becam and even does art at home now, and show me It makes me want to do bac somersaults, because you can see the It’s the fact that Primrose, myself and o wonderful volunteers create an enviro there is no criticism, they can just go w and do what they want to do ”
Helen, one of the Primrose patients wh to the art group said: “The group is ve easy and sociable Paul and Natalie, are superstars - absolutely brilliant!”
What would you say to someone who may be worried about coming to Primrose?
“You are coming into a very safe environment There are so many things you could do I'm surprised you don't do welding to be honest, because it's the only thing I can think of we don't do or you can have a great day doing diddly squat with your feet up.
If you need a bit of extra help in any particular way, regarding your illness, even down to things like applying for a blue badge The team can help with things like that, which may be worrying you at home When you come to Primrose you can just enjoy yourself – it’s wonderful.
Speaking from personal experience, patients coming to Primrose also gives their family or carers a vital break That is something that always stuck with me, because you need a break sometimes, otherwise you get stuck on the same tracks.”
Living Well with Primrose
Why do you think people should volunteer with Primrose?
“The first thing I’d say if you don't volunteer you're really missing out It doesn't matter if you nt. If you've got time could open your meet some really derful people, it's the st job I've ever had nd not been paid or I’ve done a ot of jobs!
imrose Hospice is a ace which wouldn't without everybody t's a people place
I'm a great advocate for Primrose, I personally take it as a pleasure to come here every week ”
Our Living Well Service is open to patients, family members and bereaved clients.
If you are interested in receiving support from Primrose Hospice you can refer yourself to our support services How can I access your support?
You can call us 01527 871051 or visit to find out more: www primrosehospice org
Alternatively, you can ask any healthcare professional to make a referral on your behalf
Find out more about volunteering with our team here or call: 01527 871051
Could you give a shift?
This Autumn we’re looking for amazing volunteers – just like you, to join our team and ‘give a shift’ for Primrose Hospice.
We have over 12 varied volunteer roles you could get involved with to give back to your local Hospice
We’ve recently launched a brand new way to apply to become a volunteer – making it quicker and easier than ever to give the gift of time.
T: 01527 871051
E: volunteering@primrosehospice.org
Charlie volunteers with our shops and Day Hospice teams.
asked him why do you ‘Give a shift?’
y Nan died aged 54 and my Aunt died aged 27 from cancer. mrose Hospice was a great support for my family during this vastating time. I was young when this happened but by unteering now I am helping others I love how friendly and ring everyone is – it’s a happy and supportive environment for th patients and volunteers.“
at's your favourite thing about volunteering?
ove to think that I might have made a small difference –en if it was just making someo il l h li t i t meone tell me about themse hink other teenagers like me w ferent generations and sharin
That’s Julie
Julie volunteers with her family in a variety of hospice roles.
Why do you ‘Give a shift?’
“I joined Primrose because I wanted to help, having worked for the Health Care system all my working life I felt it was a great way to give back and hopefully make a difference.“
What's your favourite thing about volunteering?
“As I have worked in many of the different departments, it's hard to pick a favourite thing. Volunteering gives me such pleasure, you all make me feel appreciated and welcome!”
Why do you think other people should volunteer for Primrose Hospice?
“Volunteering for Primrose Hospice gives a huge sense of belonging to a great team. It gives a sense of wellbeing and a feeling that you are helping to provide a vital service for the community.”
Let's hear it for our Fundraisers!
A breakfast too big for your plate
What do you get when you cross Bromsgrove Farmers Club and a fry up? The Big Breakfast of course! This year they celebrated their 20th Birthday and to date they have raised for Primrose Hospice and Cancer Research!
£64,930
Helen who is part of the organisation team said:
“Over the years it has grown into a great community get together as well as offering a fabulous breakfast and raising a considerable amount of money for two fantastic causes.
We now have a lot of youngsters coming who love to help, which is great to see. I love seeing all the helpers as well as people coming to supporting the event We look forward to seeing you on March 8th 2025!”
The 2024 Big Breakfast saw support and donations from local companies and their community raising for the two charities £5,877
National Grid Pedal for Primrose
On the 9th June 2024 a team of dedicated participants from global utilities company National Grid took to their bikes to ride an impressive 400km between their North Sea Link Interconnector in Newcastle to their Viking Link Interconnector in Lincolnshire.
Tom Smith lead cyclist said:
“The 400km ride was incredibly hard over the 3 days but the welcome party at Bicker Fen on the third day was incredible and made it all worthwhile. Having Adam there at the finish to represent Primrose Hospice was amazing, and reminded all of those who participated of the contribution that they had made to this fantastic charity Supporting all of your work in our own little way has been really rewarding ”
£20,000 They raised over split between Primrose Hospice and MASKS (Make a Special Kid Smile), two charities close to the riders’ hearts.
The Primrose Choir’s Spectacular Spring Concert
Earlier in the year The Primrose Choir performed at one of their regular concerts in Bromsgrove They showcased their best tunes and very kindly raised money for Primrose Hospice Throughout for Primrose
£4,000
Anita, a member in The Primrose Choir said:
“I have been part of The Primrose Choir for many years and made some lovely friends Singing is so good for your mental health What is better than singing, having fun and raising money for Primrose Hospice?”
Would you like to join The Primrose Choir? Contact Anita to find out more: 07737 317493
Primrose Runners Unite at Birmingham Half Maratho
On 5th May a team of Primrose runners took to the streets of a hot but inspi Birmingham City Centre to run the annual half marathon. Together our runn i f i pice & Family Support Centre. half marathon said:
£5,596
“We’ve been supported as a family for nearly 6 years following my husband’s diagnosis of motor neurone disease After a long courageous battle sadly he died in April 2023 I took up running to help me cope with it all and along with other friends and colleagues we decided to run in memory of Chris. It was a tough run but there was no way I was not completing it. At mile 12 his favourite song ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ was playing, that and the families like us who Primrose support, kept us going when it was tough ”
A shining example of support
18 years ago Phil Southall designed and built our Lights of Love display boards. Phil recently retired and handed the baton to Adam & Ollie of Total Exhibitions, who have very kindly volunteered their time and materials to create a second set of boards for a brand new display in Redditch. Phil said:
“I’ve supported Lights of Love for 18 years and it’s just as important to me today as it was back then, which is why I’m delighted Adam is continuing the tradition after my retirement. This is our way of giving back.”
Could you fundraise for us?
There are a huge variety of ways you could fundraise for Primrose Hospice, whether you prefer to do that solo or with a group of friends, we have something for everyone!
How do I get in touch with the fundraising team?
Call us: 01527 889796
Email us: enquiries@primrosehospice.org
www.primrosehospice.org
A close shave
cently Diane ma ave decision to s r head, raising a redible W r why she wante to the clippers:
£1,048!
“I knew I wanted to do something that would help others The team at TR made sure I was surrounded by people who cared about the cause, so I had a good cheer squad. I am just glad to have been able to raise money for such a great charity like Primrose Hospice You all do such an amazing job, supporting so many people ”
Dates for your diary
Join us at our events:
The Moulin Rouge Ball: 28th September
Open Day: Friday 18th October
Santa Fun Run: 1st December
Lights of Love Celebration: 7th December
Christmas Wrapping: 16th-23rd December
Treecycle: 11th - 13th January 2025
Business Breakfast: 19th February 2025
Check our website for more info: primrosehospice org/support-us/events-calendar
Bring Minecraft to life
You may have read in our last bulletin that we are using the video game Minecraft to offer alternative support to the children and young people who visit Primrose Hospice. As part of our Minecraft month earlier in the year. Our explorations group recently got together to recycle old cartons into Minecraft planters to grow their very own grass!
Take your carton and cut it into a square (be careful with the scissors!)
If you’ve written an optional messagefold this up and pop it at the bottom of the carton.
Break up your dried leaves and stick to the outside of your carton using PVA glue You can also use paper cut into squares if you don’t have any leaves.
Fill your carton with compost, leaving around 1cm at the top
Add a spoon full of grass seed to the top of your compost.
Place inside in a sunny spot and add some water. You could keep your plant or gift it to someone you know
Continue to water regularly and watch your Minecraft planter grow!
You could create multiple planters to grow your own real life Minecraft world!
What you’ll need:
An old and clean cardboard
milk or juice carton
Scissors
Dried leaves or brown/grey paper cut into squares
PVA glue
Multi purpose compost
Grass seed
Water
Optional in memory message to your loved ones, written on a piece of card
What you've said
I feel like the light has been turned on in my life! After meeting my recent counsellor, I felt she listened and she understood me completely. I was able to open up to her and in return she gave me very wise knowledge and support. The gift of getting me walking again has made a significant impact on my life. All your hard work has touched my heart, I will never forget your kindness and understanding.
You have helped me immensely with my pain issues, I don’t know what I’d do without you at Primrose.
We would love to hear your thoughts about your experience at Primrose Hospice, so we can improve services
Please take a few minutes to complete this survey Alternatively you can speak to any member of staff. Thank you
How to donate
All of our services and support which we provide at Primrose Hospice & Family Support Centre are free, which is why we heavily rely on donations from our generous public. We are really grateful for donations of any size to help us support more people in North East Worcestershire. It’s simple to donate online - scan the QR code or visit: primrosehospice.org
If you would like to donate by cheque please make it payable to: ‘Primrose Hospice Ltd’ and post to: Fundraising Department, Primrose Hospice, St Godwalds Road, Bromsgrove B60 3BW
You can also donate over the phone by calling: 01527 889796 Thank you.
How to access support
There are several ways you can access our support services.
If you would like to make a referral to our Clinical or Family support you can call: 01527 871051 or you can make a referral online for our Clinical support by scanning the QR code.
You can also talk to your GP, Consultant, District Nurse or any other health care professional involved in your care
For more information on all of our services visit: primrosehospice org
How to stay in touch
From time to time we like to keep in touch with you to tell you about the exciting updates and fundraising events we have going on throughout the year
You can now sign up to receive email updates on our website
We want to keep our communications as cost effective and environmentally friendly as possible If you would like to change the way we contact you, let us know what is the best way to contact you by getting in touch with our Fundraising Team: 01527 889796 or email: info@primrosehospice.org
