Tag: Anniversaries

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Celebrating one year of our Clearance Outlet

What a year it has been! Just twelve months ago, our Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre opened its doors, transforming a warehouse into a vibrant retail hub – not just a place to donate and shop, but a place with heart.

From our Opening Day on 12th October to the launch of our branded vans and improved collection and delivery service, every milestone has helped the team grow stronger together.

Highlights included a Family Fun Day, filled with laughter and music, and the unveiling of our community garden – now a welcoming green space for everyone.

Behind the scenes, success has been powered by our staff and volunteers, including young people from the Tameside YES scheme. We’ve also welcomed many new faces – individuals and corporate volunteers – whose energy and commitment have made a huge difference.

“We’ve all learned so much this past year – and we’re still learning every day,” said Paul King, Warehouse and Logistics Manager. “Shopping or donating here isn’t like your typical charity shop. There’s always something happening, plenty of space to browse, and a real buzz thanks to our customers, staff, and volunteers.”

Most importantly, thank you to everyone who has donated, shopped, or supported this multi-faceted retail hub. You’ve helped make this outlet truly special.

Here’s to another year of growth, community, and making a difference TOGETHER.

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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.

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Tracy Minshull reflects on first year as CEO

Tracy Minshull says she feels “both proud and humbled to lead such an incredible organisation” as she marks a year in charge of Willow Wood Hospice.

Tracy officially took over the reins as Chief Executive Officer from Karen Houlston on 1st May 2024.

It has been a busy and rewarding first 12 months in the role for Tracy, who has worked in the health and social care sector for over 25 years.

Reflecting on her time at the Hospice so far, she said: “One early moment stood out to me: a patient’s husband said: ‘Even the smallest things, you do really well’. It’s a simple statement that perfectly captures the care we provide.

“This year has been all about relationships. It’s been a privilege to connect with our staff, volunteers, trustees, patrons, and the families we serve. I’ve spent time in our hospice, across the community, and at our retail shops, gaining insight into the vital roles everyone plays.

“I’ve also focused on building strategic partnerships, including becoming Deputy Chair for the Palliative and End of Life Care Improvement Group. These connections help ensure our services remain accessible across Tameside and Glossop.

“I also joined fellow Greater Manchester hospice leaders to lobby MPs in Parliament to raise awareness for the funding plight of hospices, and to keep hospice care at the forefront of the minds of our elected representatives.

“We’ve welcomed four new trustees, launched quarterly engagement sessions, and co-designed our Five-Year Strategy, which will be published in June. A big thank you to all who contributed — your input has shaped our future.

“Looking ahead, we’ll continue building strong relationships, delivering exceptional care, and ensuring Willow Wood thrives for years to come. Thank you for being part of our journey.”