Thanks to George for this update from the Friends of St Mary’s. Ed
The ability of the Friends of St Mary’s Hospital to purchase future much-appreciated additional facilities for the NHS on the Island has been significantly boosted through the charity receiving legacies totalling £103,500 over recent months.
“It is very heartening that people should recognise the good work we do when drawing up their wills,” said the Friends’ chairman, Geoff Banks. “They probably see it as a tangible way of showing their gratitude for the care they have received during what could have been quite traumatic personal experiences.
“Although we derive income from our hospital shop and cafeterias, together with donations and money-raising events, it is bequests that make the biggest difference to our balance sheet. As a result we have been able to meet all approved bids made to us by various sectors of the local NHS, both in the hospital and elsewhere on the Island.”
Quarter of a million pounds spent on equipment
Over the past three years the Friends have paid out over £250,000 for equipment and services that are beyond the limitations of the NHS budget. Among the many items were a blood analyser, an intensive care monitor, an emergency care vehicle, and seats in the hospital grounds.
The £103,500 was made up of three separate bequests, of £70,000, £21,000 and £12,500. To underline the value of such generosity the Friends have produced a special legacy leaflet, available in the hospital foyer.
Image: CJ Isherwood under CC BY 2.0
