A HOSPICE that cares for people from Droitwich Spa has rallied support for a national campaign to raise the profile of such facilities.

St Richard’s Hospice, based in Worcester, has joined other hospices across the UK to gather messages from patients and families, supporters, volunteers and celebrities for Hospice Care Week (October 8 to 14), bringing to life how many different people get involved with and receive hospice care.

Hundreds of people have already posted pictures online of themselves holding up their word or message and saying ‘I am hospice care’, to highlight how hospices reach out to and support the many communities in their areas.

People from all over Worcestershire have joined in, pledging their support for St Richard’s by personalising ‘I am hospice care’ stickers and posters.

St Richard’s care director June Patel said: “Hospice care is not about buildings. It is about people and communities – from the people who support and work in partnership with their local hospices, to the patients, friends and families who rely on them. Together, we are all hospice care.”

More than 100 local hospices including St Richard’s are joining forces with national charity Help the Hospices to celebrate Hospice Care Week. The theme of Hospice Care Week this year is ‘Hospice care, be surprised’, aiming to dispel misconceptions and show that hospice care is for everyone.

Find out more and pledge your support at besurprised.org.uk