Month: July 2025

Posted on by

Young hero up for award after helping Willow Wood in mum’s memory

An inspirational seven-year-old from Hattersley who helped collect over 2,000 Crème Eggs for Willow Wood Hospice, where his mum died, has been shortlisted for a special award.

Frankie Chadwick was nominated by the Hospice’s Fundraising team for the BBC’s Make a Difference Awards, which celebrate the achievements of community heroes.

The Year 2 pupil is one of four finalists in a new category introduced this year – the Young Hero Award, which will be awarded to someone under 16 who has made a positive impact in their community or achieved something exceptional.

The brave youngster helped Willow Wood collect an abundance of sweet treats for the Hospice’s annual Bunny Hop appeal – which this year raised a record amount of over £50,000, as over 7,000 people across Tameside and Glossop took part from 24 schools, 19 nurseries and two community groups.

He wanted to support the Hospice in Ashton-under-Lyne, where his mum Gemma received end-of-life care in February this year. She spent 10 days in the Inpatient Unit before she died from brain cancer, aged 46.

Frankie with his mum Gemma
Frankie with his mum Gemma

Frankie said: “We had collection baskets in shops like Tesco and when the baskets got full of Crème Eggs, they were put behind customer service for us to pick up.

“Willow Wood were really good at looking after my mummy. She was really nice and she used to buy me lots of things like toys. I miss her cuddles and going on holiday with her.

“I am very happy and excited to be going to the awards.”

Frankie is looked after by his uncle and legal guardian Gavin Chadwick, who could not be prouder of his nephew and grateful for the care his family received from Willow Wood during a tough time.

“Frankie is a very unique and special boy with lots of character – he’s just a superstar and absolutely deserves to be a finalist,” said Gavin, 42.

“I cried on the phone when I found out he was up for the award. I feel so proud of Frankie and Gemma would be so proud of him too – it’s a shame she is not here to celebrate this moment with us.

Frankie speaking to Holly from BBC Radio Manchester in his classroom at school
Frankie speaking to Holly from BBC Radio Manchester in his classroom at school

“Frankie is one of the calmest people in the world, considering what he’s been through. He still goes to school with a smile on his face and plays with his friends, never mentioning all the horrible things he’s going through.

“Gemma’s cancer had spread throughout the years – she had cancer when Frankie was born so his mummy being poorly has been the norm for him. He visited her at Christie’s and at Tameside Hospital – their relationship could not have been any stronger. Gemma was an amazing sister and a tough cookie with a powerful personality but also very private.

“Willow Wood was absolutely amazing and their team looked after us all. Frankie had no fear of lying on the bed with her and taking the dog to see her – he played on the Xbox in the family lounge and became a friend of the nurses.

“It was Gemma’s idea to collect the eggs and Frankie was the ambassador of our own appeal. It was a focus for us all and we wanted to help the Hospice.”

Tracey Schofield, Events Lead who organises the Hospice’s Bunny Hop campaign, put Frankie forward for the award and gave him his own Bunny Hop pack as a reward for his magnificent efforts.

“I nominated Frankie for the award because, despite everything he was going through, he thought of others and wanted to help the Hospice,” she said.

“On behalf of everyone at Willow Wood, we are incredibly grateful for his support and we really hope he wins the Young Hero Award.”

Gemma with Frankie and Gavin
Gemma with Frankie and Gavin

For the first time this year, the Make a Difference Awards span the entire UK. Frankie will be attending BBC Radio Manchester’s awards ceremony at Rochdale Town Hall on 12th September.

Frankie’s nomination was recently revealed at his school, St James’s Primary in Hattersley, where his teachers and classmates were overjoyed for him.

Mark Woolley, head teacher at St James’s, said: “It’s been a very difficult time for Frankie and his family, so we’ve been supporting him here in school and supporting Gavin, his uncle, as well.

“We’re very proud of Frankie – he truly does deserve it. He’s really courageous and a young hero. He’s very kind and very thoughtful. It’s lovely that he has given something back to Willow Wood.”

LISTEN: Click on the play button below to listen to Frankie and Gavin speaking to BBC Radio Manchester. You will need a tissue handy. 

Posted on by

Find out more about volunteering at our Clearance Outlet

If you’re thinking of giving back and making a difference in your community, this is the perfect opportunity to come along and find out more about volunteering with Willow Wood Hospice.
Our Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre on Langham Street (off Oldham Road) in Ashton-under-Lyne is holding a Volunteer Recruitment Day on Saturday 9th August from 10am to 2pm.
There are a range of flexible roles available – from helping with eBay and sorting through donations to being a Retail Assistant or a Driver’s Mate. You’ll get a glimpse of what’s involved in the video below…
What to expect on the day:
• Tours of the premises every hour on the hour
• Meet our friendly team in a relaxed environment
• Say hello to our mascot Woody!
• Enter our raffle to win a hamper worth over £50
Whether you’re looking to learn new skills, meet new people, or simply want to support a local cause, we’d love to see you there.
Come along and see how you can make a difference!
Posted on by

MP and councillor see Willow Wood’s vital work

Willow Wood Hospice has welcomed High Peak MP Jon Pearce and Councillor Damien Greenhalgh for the first time to see and hear about its vital role in the community.

The Hospice, based in Ashton-under-Lyne, provides compassionate, specialist and dignified care to patients with any life-limiting illness and those closest to them from Tameside and Glossop.

The Labour MP, who represents Glossop residents in Parliament, and Cllr Greenhalgh met with several members of Willow Wood’s Senior Management Team and Timothy Jackson, Chair of the Board of Trustees.

They were also given a tour of the Hospice by Timothy and Clinical Director Nicola Cheetham and interacted with some staff and volunteers.

During the round-table discussion, CEO Tracy Minshull expressed her gratitude for the government’s support in providing £181,000 to the Hospice in capital funding – which will be spent on refurbishing the Inpatient Unit – but outlined the significant challenges relating to long-term sustainable funding, particularly as supporters have less money to donate and it costs at least £3.6 million a year to keep the Hospice running.

Clinical Director Nicola Cheetham showing High Peak MP Jon Pearce and Councillor Damien Greenhalgh one of our Complementary Therapy suites
Clinical Director Nicola Cheetham showing High Peak MP Jon Pearce and Councillor Damien Greenhalgh one of our Complementary Therapy suites

Nicola gave an overview of Willow Wood’s array of services and outlined that 70 per cent of the care provided is by the Community Services team, both at the Hospice and in a patient’s own home, encouraging patients to live as well as possible for as long as possible.

Sam Duncan, Director of Fundraising and Communications, emphasised how much the Hospice relies on the generosity of the local community through supporting fundraising events and the shops. She also acknowledged the success of moving the Hospice’s Glossop shop into a bigger and better location and recent awards recognition for Willow Wood, including the retail team.

Gill Egerton, Head of HR and Workforce, explained how Willow Wood’s army of around 500 volunteers support all areas of the Hospice and its eight charity shops. She also spoke about collaborations with local colleges and businesses, as well as supporting 16 to 24-year-olds into paid work placements through the Youth Employment Support (YES) scheme in Tameside.

MP Jon Pearce and Cllr Damien Greenhalgh in conversation with our Senior Management Team and Chair of the Board of Trustees
MP Jon Pearce and Cllr Damien Greenhalgh in conversation with our Senior Management Team and Chair of the Board of Trustees

CEO Tracy Minshull said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Jon and Damien to the Hospice to give them a snapshot of what we do. We are grateful for their time and engagement – we were impressed by their knowledge of the hospice and wider healthcare sector. We hope to have their continued support as we work to meet the increasing demand for our services while navigating financial challenges.”

Jon Pearce MP said: “Visiting Willow Wood Hospice was both moving and inspiring. The care provided by the organisation goes far beyond medical support – it’s about dignity, compassion, and standing alongside families during some of the most difficult times of their lives. I was especially impressed by the Hospice’s outreach to support people living with dementia and their family carers – something I have a deep personal connection to through my family’s own experience with my father’s illness.

“The professionalism and kindness shown by the entire team at Willow Wood is making a real difference to so many across Tameside and Glossop. I’ll continue to do all I can to ensure hospices like Willow Wood get the recognition and long-term support they so clearly deserve.”

Cllr Damien Greenhalgh said: “This was a truly heartwarming visit. The impact and power of volunteering came through loud and clear – from the 20-strong team lovingly tending to the beautiful gardens, to those welcoming patients and families, and the volunteers raising vital funds in community shops. Willow Wood Hospice is nothing short of remarkable – not only for the quality of care it provides, but for the dedication, heart, and generosity of the staff and volunteers who make it all possible. It’s a local treasure we must all champion.”

Mr Pearce – whose family have a working background in the medical profession – was elected as an MP for the first time last year, while his Chief of Staff, Damien Greenhalgh, is also Deputy Leader of High Peak Borough Council and represents the Glossop South division on Derbyshire County Council.

Posted on by

Healthcare Assistant building skills for compassionate care

Clinical Educator Rachael Grimwood has been supporting Ryan Rusholme, one of our dedicated Healthcare Assistants, as he works towards completing his Care Certificate.

The Care Certificate is a nationally recognised set of standards developed by Health Education England, Skills for Care, and Skills for Health, designed to equip health and social care workers with the essential knowledge and skills to provide safe, compassionate, and high-quality care.

“Since supporting Ryan with the Care Certificate, I’ve really enjoyed seeing his enthusiasm shine. Although new to care, he’s shown a genuine eagerness to learn and is already gaining confidence and demonstrating the skills needed to support our patients effectively — exactly what the Care Certificate is designed to achieve.” – Rachael Grimwood, Clinical Educator

“I’m new to care so I was keen to expand my knowledge of the sector, learn different ways of approaching personal care and add theory to practice, to better support our patients. I like to take in as much information as possible, keep up-to-date with innovative ways of providing care and see different perspectives. I’d like to thank Rachael for her support – it will be great to receive a recognised care qualification at the end of the process.” – Ryan Rusholme, Healthcare Assistant

Together, we’re wishing Ryan the very best of luck on this important step in his care journey!

Posted on by

Butterfly Memory Appeal raises record amount

Willow Wood Hospice is celebrating its most successful Butterfly Memory Appeal ever, which has raised over £27,000 to help fund its vital services.

Hundreds of supporters came together at the Hospice, based in Ashton-under-Lyne, to release a live butterfly in memory of their loved ones last Saturday (12th July).

Every summer, the Hospice invites the communities of Tameside and Glossop to dedicate a butterfly in memory of someone special to them – whether they have received care at Willow Wood or not – and make a donation which helps to provide compassionate, specialist and dignified care to patients from the local community with any life-limiting illness.

Those who made a dedication received a personalised certificate and their name, as well as that of their loved one, was included in the Butterfly Memory Book, which was available to view at the Hospice during the event.

Around 900 butterflies were released in the Hospice gardens
Around 900 butterflies were released in the Hospice gardens

This year, 900 butterflies were released – more than any other year – in the glorious sunshine in the Hospice’s tranquil gardens, at three release times which were fully booked in advance.

Bethan Creighton, Willow Wood’s Family Support Lead, and Volunteer Chaplain Mark Creighton said a few comforting words to begin each ceremony before individuals and families released their butterflies from their boxes, followed by a repertoire of songs from the Willow Wood Hospice Choir.

The event was attended by the Civic Mayor of Tameside Councillor Shibley Alam – who has chosen the Hospice as one of her charities to support during her year in office – and her Consort Mohammed Khairul Alam, as well as the Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Manchester Diane Hawkins JP LLB and Hospice patron and Vice Lord-Lieutenant Sharman Birtles MBE JP DL.

Vice Lord-Lieutenant Sharman Birtles, Lord-Lieutenant Diane Hawkins and Willow Wood Director of Fundraising and Comms Sam Duncan
Vice Lord-Lieutenant Sharman Birtles, Lord-Lieutenant Diane Hawkins and Willow Wood Director of Fundraising and Comms Sam Duncan

Staff and volunteers manned stalls and the dining room selling a variety of refreshments, cakes, crafts and plants – as well as a raffle and a tombola.

Samantha Kitch, Supporter Care Manager at Willow Wood Hospice, who led on the Butterfly Memory Appeal, said: “We are absolutely overwhelmed by the incredible success of this year’s appeal and wholeheartedly thank everyone who dedicated a butterfly and supported the event, which really was a memorable occasion.

“It’s through the generosity and compassion of our community that we can continue our vital work and ensure that memories live on.

“We’re grateful to Butterflies for Occasions for supplying the butterflies – there were lots of nice comments about the lovely boxes they were in.”

The Butterfly Memory Release is a special event in Willow Wood Hospice's fundraising calendar
The Butterfly Memory Release is a special event in Willow Wood Hospice’s fundraising calendar

The Butterfly Memory Release is one of many events Willow Wood Hospice holds throughout the year, with plenty more still to come in 2025 – including a 5k Wicked-themed Walk around Stamford Park and Chadwick Dam on 21st September.

Since 2020, the cost of delivering hospice services in Greater Manchester has risen by 33 per cent. It costs at least £3.6 million every year for Willow Wood to continue providing its services – 70 per cent of which are provided by its Community Services team at the Hospice and in a patient’s own home.

In March, Willow Wood’s CEO Tracy Minshull and Clinical Director Nicola Cheetham joined hospice leaders at the Houses of Parliament to ask MPs to support reforming the funding model for hospices.

With only 24 per cent of Willow Wood’s annual income funded by the government, the Hospice relies on the local community to cover the shortfall by making donations, organising or supporting fundraising events, donating or buying goods at its eight charity shops, leaving gifts in their Wills, joining the weekly lottery or volunteering.

To find out more about the Hospice, visit www.willowwood.org.uk

Posted on by

Spotkick success sees Mossley retain Willow Wood Hospice Cup

Mossley AFC lifted the trophy for the second successive year as the Willow Wood Hospice Cup match raised £252.17 in support of the Hospice.

After a goalless 90 minutes at a sunny Seel Park, the Lilywhites came out on top 4-2 in a penalty shootout against Droylsden FC as both teams continued their pre-season preparations last Saturday (12th July).

Supporters were able to purchase raffle tickets and make a donation in collection buckets at the ground to the Hospice, based in Ashton-under-Lyne, which cares for patients with any life-limiting illness in Tameside and Glossop.

The Willow Wood Hospice Cup was an annual fixture in the Tameside and Glossop non-league football calendar for a number of years.

After a hiatus, it was revived last year by former councillor and Civic Mayor of Tameside, Brian Wild, and fellow long-time supporter of the Hospice, Chris Smith.

Mossley hosted the occasion this year after beating Glossop North End AFC 2-0 last year at the Asgard Engineering Stadium as the cup made a triumphant return.

Brian Wild (left) and Roger Dilkes representing the Hospice at Mossley AFC.
Brian Wild (left) and Roger Dilkes representing the Hospice at Mossley AFC.

Lucy Ta’ati, Community and Events Fundraiser, said: “A huge thank you to both clubs, our patron Brian Wild and Roger Dilkes for representing the Hospice, and everyone who attended for their support.

“We’re grateful to all those who bought a raffle ticket or dropped a donation in the bucket. Every contribution helps us continue caring for our patients and those closest to them.”

Brian Wild, patron of the Hospice, commented: “We didn’t see many goals but, on a sweltering hot day in Tameside, it was a brilliant game of football. Thank you to Mossley AFC for their excellent hospitality.

“I’m so pleased to see the Willow Wood Hospice Cup growing in momentum again. It’s more than about football – it’s about the community coming together to support an important local cause.”

Stephen Porter, Mossley AFC’s chairman, added: “We were delighted to host this year’s Willow Wood Hospice Cup match and proud to continue supporting the amazing work the Hospice does for local people.

“Thank you to fans of both teams for their generosity and getting behind the occasion.”

Posted on by

Craft Group celebrate 10 years of creations and fundraising

This year marks a special milestone for the Willow Wood Hospice Craft Group as they celebrate 10 wonderful years of crafting and raising funds to support patient care.

The group, made up of Jean McGuire from Denton, Sue Dray from Stalybridge, Lynn Fielding from Dukinfield, Gwen Towell from Ashton-under-Lyne, Yvonne Davison from Denton, and their newest member Rose Dawson from Mottram, meets every Friday morning at the Hospice.

From 10am to midday, you’ll find them knitting, crocheting, sewing, and sharing stories over their latest creations.

Their talents know no bounds as they make beautiful handmade crafts and goodies for all ages.

These are sold at events held both at the Hospice and in the wider community, including at carnivals, fairs and fun days.

Over the past decade, the group has raised around £10,000 – and that’s on top of the thousands of volunteer hours they’ve gifted in the process.

Much of their materials are donated through our charity shops, but when needed, they’re happy to chip in and buy supplies themselves.

(left to right) Lynn, Rose, Yvonne and Jean had a stall at our recent Butterfly Memory Release event.
(left to right) Lynn, Rose, Yvonne and Jean had a stall at our recent Butterfly Memory Release event.

They’ve even inspired others in the community to donate homemade items for the group to sell – a true ripple effect of kindness.

For Jean, she is giving back as a thank you for the care the Hospice gave to both her mum and her husband.

“We’re all retired and crafting is a passion of ours, so we turned it into something meaningful by supporting the Hospice,” she said. “We really enjoy volunteering for a good cause which means a lot to us all. Ten years has gone so fast!”

Sue, who also makes jewellery for the group, added: “There’s a real community feel at Willow Wood and it feels like we are making a difference. The Hospice is a necessity for the area – I saw both of my parents die in hospital, and the care Willow Wood provides is so important.”

Lucy Ta’ati, Community and Events Fundraiser at Willow Wood, said: “The Craft Group are such a dedicated and talented bunch. Not only have they raised thousands of pounds, but they bring so much warmth and creativity to everything they do. We’re incredibly grateful for their ongoing support – they are a shining example of the difference volunteers can make.”

The group is always happy to welcome new members – whether you’re a seasoned needle crafter or crafter, or you’re just getting started. It’s a fantastic way to meet like-minded people, enjoy your craft, and raise vital funds for patients with a life-limiting illness across Tameside and Glossop.

Interested in joining the group? Find out more and register your interest at willowwood.org.uk/volunteering.

Posted on by

Head of Community Services recognised with award

We’re absolutely thrilled to share that our Head of Community Services, Callie Harrop, has won an award at this year’s Greater Manchester Health and Care Champion Awards.
Callie was one of three shortlisted finalists in the Rising Star category and took home the accolade at last night’s ceremony, held at Manchester’s Science and Industry Museum.
We’re also proud to be the only hospice to have been recognised with an award.
The awards are organised by the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership, celebrating outstanding individuals and teams working across health, social care and community services across the 10 boroughs of Greater Manchester.
Since becoming our Head of Community Services in May 2024, Callie has led our Community Services teams to enhance patient pathways, streamline referrals and improve care coordination.
“I was overwhelmed, honoured and humbled to be recognised and receive this award,” Callie reflected. “It was a fantastic opportunity to hear all the wonderful things happening across Greater Manchester and I’m so proud to be recognised as a part of that.”
She was nominated for her award by our Clinical Director, Nicola Cheetham, who shared: “Callie is an exceptional leader whose commitment to compassionate care shines through and has made a real impact at Willow Wood. On behalf of everyone at the Hospice, huge congratulations to Callie – we’re all really proud of her fantastic achievement.”
Posted on by

Director’s daring bungee jump for Willow Wood

Neale Samways, Sales Director at Scientific Sanitation Solutions, has taken fundraising to new heights—literally—with a heart-pounding 300ft bungee jump in support of Willow Wood Hospice.

Neale, whose company is one of our main Ball sponsors for the second year running, has already raised over £250 from the daring leap, which took place at scenic Bray Lake in Windsor on 29th June.

This isn’t his first jump for charity—in 2023, Neale completed a 150ft bungee and raised £785.

Inspired by the support he received then, he decided to go even further this year, doubling the height and pushing himself outside his comfort zone.

Speaking after the challenge, Neale said: “The bungee jump was an incredible experience – terrifying but absolutely worth it! Knowing it was for such a great cause kept me focused and made the whole thing even more meaningful. Willow Wood does amazing work, and I’m proud to support them in any way I can.”

Lucy Ta’ati, our Community and Events Fundraiser, added: “We’re so grateful to Neale for once again going above and beyond—quite literally—for Willow Wood. His energy, bravery, and continued commitment mean the world to us, and every penny raised helps us continue providing vital care for our community.”

Founded in 2023, Scientific Sanitation Solutions is based in Ashton-under-Lyne and has a growing global presence.

Some of the team also took part in our Velocity Team Challenge in north Wales last year, helping to raise over £17,000 for Willow Wood.

You can still support Neale’s fundraising efforts by donating via his JustGiving page: justgiving.com/page/scientific-sanitation-solutions-neales300ft-bungeejump

Thank you, Neale, for your continued and courageous support!