As the coronavirus crisis sweeps across Torbay and South Devon, Rowcroft Hospice’s CEO Mark Hawkins reassures the local community that Rowcroft is working around the clock to continue helping those most vulnerable. Rowcroft supports patients and families across 300 square miles of South Devon, through offering services such as specialist end-of-life nursing care, advice and emotional support.
“These are unprecedented and worrying times, but I’d like everyone to know that we are doing everything we possibly can – day and night, seven days a week – to continue caring for patients and their families living with life-limiting illnesses, and to make every day the best day possible,” says Mr Hawkins.
“I am so proud of how all our staff and volunteers are pulling together: our patients and their wellbeing remain our utmost priority. We are working hard to keep everyone safe, by taking extra precautionary measures as our experts advise. Our care continues in our Inpatient Unit in Torquay and in patients’ own homes – where we care for the majority of our patients. We are doing everything possible to protect our patients, families and our staff from exposure to the coronavirus, and we are monitoring the situation closely as it unfolds and responding appropriately. We know our community needs us more than ever, and we are there for you.”
Rowcroft’s patients are those with life-limiting illnesses and they are considered to be in the population most at risk from coronavirus. As the pandemic takes its toll on Torbay and South Devon, the demand for Rowcroft’s already-stretched services is set to sharply increase.
As a charity, Rowcroft relies heavily on the generosity and support of the local community – who fund the overwhelming majority of Rowcroft’s care. However, in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, Rowcroft’s income is being affected. Rowcroft’s shops and cafes have had to close in order to protect customers, employees and volunteers, and many of Rowcroft’s fundraising events and activities have been postponed or cancelled.
“We are trying to stay strong and keep positive,” explains Mr Hawkins. “We can and will continue to make a difference to the vulnerable people who need us. For us at Rowcroft, it means the world to know that we have the support of our community behind us. We know that many people are looking for ways to help, so please do continue to support us in any way you can during these challenging times.”For further information about Rowcroft’s work and how you can help, please call 01803 210800 or visit Rowcroft’s website at: www.rowcrofthospice.org.uk
