Charity Launches New Website

University Hospital's charity has launched a new website to increase its profile across North Staffordshire and beyond. The people of North Staffordshire raised over 640,000 pounds for the Charitable Fund last year.  www.uhnscharity.org.uk will support people who want to get involved in fundraising and feature regular news about fundraisers.

Steve Rushton, charitable funds manager, said: "We raised nearly 200,000 pounds more last year than in 2007 and 2008. This can only have a fantastic impact on the standard of care that can be provided at University Hospital. I know the staff really appreciate everything that the local businesses, communities, families and individuals do for the hospital. The fundraisers are a true credit it to the region and a great many of the people cared for at the hospital will in some way have benefited from these donations."

The website will keep everyone informed about how money is raised and how it goes to helping the people of North Staffordshire. Steve said: "We’re really grateful to The Sentinel, BBC Radio Stoke and other media organisations who promote the charity. The media couldn’t possible feature everyone who has raised money for the Trust, so this new website will be our way of saying a big public thank you to the fundraisers. There are some truly amazing people who not only overcome terrible illnesses but then courageously push themselves even further to raise money for the hospital staff that have helped them."

Gayle Palmer, 28, of Newcastle-under-Lyme, is running the London Marathon for the charity after her now eight-year-old son Ethan was born prematurely at the hospital. She said: "Ethan's battle has shown me that if you really want something you can achieve it. When Ethan was born the staff were there for me providing guidance, an ear to listen and a shoulder to cry on. I want to do my bit to help the charity."

The Charitable Fund is also raising funds to buy artwork for the Cancer Centre to improve the feel of the corridors and waiting areas. Laura Warrender, directorate manager for oncology, said: "Patients have told us how much the art helps them cope with such a traumatic time. They love the paintings, these works of art are making a real difference and it will get help even more if the charity can provide paintings for other areas."

 For further information or assistance please contact Sue Pantin, Communications Manager, on 01782 555400 or Andrew Ashcroft, Communications Manager, on 01782 555061.