Regular Donors Make a Big Difference for Francis House Children’s Hospice
Manchester, UK – Francis House Children’s Hospice relies on the generosity of people from across Greater Manchester to provide round-the-clock care for families of children and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions. The charity has received support from more than 625 individuals and businesses who donate on a regular basis, contributing an average of £87,000 (including Gift Aid from UK taxpayers) every year.
Among these regular donors is Howells Railway Products Ltd, a third-generation manufacturer of railway signalling products with clients around the world. The company, which employs 42 people, has been supporting Francis House for over 25 years. The relationship began when Managing Director Mike Howells was moved by a talk from Father Thomas Mulheran about the need for a children’s hospice in Manchester. Since then, the company has been committed to making regular donations, including a monthly donation of £500.
Mike’s daughter Rebecca Howells and son David Howells, along with Jennifer Dudley, who joined the firm at 18, are Directors of the company. Rebecca shared, “It rubbed off on us and because dad was so passionate, we became passionate. Making a regular donation to Francis House is an easy and convenient way to show your support and we are happy knowing that our donation is making a real difference to local children and their families. We will continue to support Francis House and would encourage others to do the same.”
In recognition of Howells’ outstanding support, Rebecca and Jennifer were presented with a special award on Mike’s behalf.
According to Rachel Nasiri, fundraising officer of Francis House, regular donations have a tremendous impact on the charity’s ability to provide essential services for children and families. She stated, “Donations come to us in a variety of ways, from a sporting challenge to a gift made in memory of a loved one. But it’s the regular donations made every month that help us to plan ahead and keep our vital services running.”
The running cost of Francis House is £4.8 million per year, and out of every £1 spent, 89p goes towards charitable work. The hospice offers care for children and young adults with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions, as well as support for their families. Services include respite care, homecare, day care, sibling support, parental support, end-of-life care, and emotional and bereavement support. Francis House has no upper age limit and continues to care for young adults into their twenties and thirties.
As inflation and costs continue to rise, charities like Francis House rely on regular donations to cover core running costs. Nasiri added, “To all our regular givers, we are profoundly grateful for your support. You are funding the expansion and development of our services, enabling us to meet the growing need for homecare and emotional support. If you are considering becoming a regular giver, you will be making an ongoing difference in the lives of the children and families we support. Please consider setting up a charity direct debit or a standing order and join more than 600 others supporting Francis House on a regular basis.”
Those interested in making a donation can visit www.francishouse.org.uk/donate-online.
