Carigiet Cowen have become Business Partners with Hospice at Home with a view to supporting the vital work of the charity in Carlisle and North Cumbria. The official launch of the Business Partners took place at Carlisle Racecourse on Thursday 25 February, and was attended by representatives of 21 locally based businesses who have already pledged their support by giving direct financial aid, offer of services and goods, or other fund raising activities.

The charity has limited NHS funding and needs to raise monies to continue to provide end of life care for people with life limiting illnesses who wish to remain in their own homes. Since its foundation, Hospice at Home has cared for almost 3,000 terminally ill patients and their families. The nursing service has about 25 full and part time nurses and carers in its team providing 24 hour cover for between 20-25 patients at any one time.

The charity raises funding from its own activities throughout the year including flag days and specific events including the annual Marmalade Festival at Dalemain and the Santa Dash and Bunny Fun Runs. In addition there is a charity shop in Little Dockray in Penrith which sells good quality items of clothing, bric-a-brac and books.

Hospice at Home relies heavily on the generosity of organisations and individuals to raise cash. Further information about the Hospice at Home is available on their website www.hospiceathome.co.uk or from Sheila Thompson on 01768 720719.