Lancaster’s hospice has thanked patients and their families after it received a prestigious national award.

St John’s fought off tough competition from 18 shortlisted entrants including many national charities to receive the accolade for its Legacy Campaign of the Year, at the Smee and Ford Legacy Giving Awards.

I’ll Always Remember is an inspiring campaign led by local families who have experienced St John’s care in the hospice and in their own homes.

The campaign used film footage of families talking about what they always remembered about the hospice’s care.

Liz Edmondson (left), head of supporter engagement at the hospice; Catherine Butterworth, director of income generation and Ashley Rowthorn, executive director, Charities, Legacy Futures and Smee & Ford.

placeholder image — Liz Edmondson (left), head of supporter engagement at the hospice; Catherine Butterworth, director of income generation and Ashley Rowthorn, executive director, Charities, Legacy Futures and Smee & Ford.

It encouraged people to think about leaving a gift in their will by highlighting the profound impact a small or large donation can make to someone during one of the most difficult times they will face.

“This award for Legacy Campaign of the Year is really for the patients and families who bravely and openly shared what they'll always remember about St John’s care with such dignity and courage,” said Catherine Butterworth, director of income generation.

“The award highlights the kindness of the community who support St John's care in so many ways including gifts in their wills.

"So many people have experienced the exceptional care of their local hospice and want the loved ones of others to have this compassion at the end of their lives.

"Thank you to all our wonderful community – again, this award is for you because it's you who enable us to be there for others at one of the most difficult times in their lives.”

Liz Edmondson, head of supporter engagement, said: “We also want to thank local companies, Flex MR and McGill Productions, who gave their creativity, expertise and genuine empathy to the families and the campaign.”

Gifts in wills care for one in five hospice patients.

"When people leave a gift to St John’s they are leaving a legacy,” said Chris Heginbotham, chair of trustees.

"Such gifts have helped secure the future of our hospice for 40 years and we hope they will continue to help provide compassionate care for the next 40 years.”

Judges were appreciative of the sensitive and effective use of the campaign’s content.

“This award recognises a campaign that sets the standard for legacy messaging, demonstrating excellence in creativity, engagement, and collaboration,” they said.

“Judges agreed that this winning entry was a brilliant example of a charity that truly understands its audience and places them at the heart of the campaign.

“The organisation showed a strong ability to connect with its supporter community, delivering a message that was both engaging and inspiring.”

For further information on how to leave a gift in your will, please contact Liz Edmondson at St John’s Hospice or visit the website Leave a Gift In Your Will (I'll Always Remember) - St John's Hospice