Prospect Hospice has a strong local reputation for its specialist end-of-life care services in North Wiltshire. Now, they’ve just made the unfortunate announcement that they’re closing their store on Marlborough High Street. The shop will close its doors for good on Saturday, September 6. This decision is a welcome answer to years of fiscal crisis. Sadly, these pressures have cut deep into the charity’s bottom line, with tragic results.
Her Majesty The Queen Camilla became president of Prospect Hospice in 2013. Story via the AP This year, she got to celebrate the charity’s 45th anniversary. The occasion celebrated thirty years of the hospice having its present home in Wroughton. During her visit, Queen Camilla expressed her admiration for the hospice, stating, “Every time I come here, I come away feeling so impressed and feeling so lucky actually that Wiltshire has something like this to look after people who are at the end of their life.”
The shop’s closure underscores the difficult position Prospect Hospice is in, trying to keep their essential services alive. Stuart Necrews, Head of Commercial Income at Prospect Hospice realized it was a tough decision to make.
“We are so thankful to the staff, volunteers, donors and customers who have supported this shop over the years. Closing the doors is not a decision we wanted to make, but it is a necessary one to ensure we can continue providing outstanding care to local people at the end of their lives.” – Stuart Necrews, Head of Commercial Income at Prospect Hospice
The hospice is largely dependent on donations and community support to operate its programs. During her visit, Queen Camilla emphasized the importance of such facilities, remarking, “As I’ve said time and time again, I wish we could clone these places because there aren’t nearly enough.” She further noted, “We just have to keep them going. I know a lot of people help out but we need a lot more help than that.”
Prospect Hospice needs every mile driven by its amazing team of staff, volunteers and fundraising supporters. Their passion is the lifeblood of the organization’s services, outreach, and fundraising initiatives. This small charity pours all of its energy and heart into fulfilling its mission. It is dedicated to bringing outstanding care to people at the end of their lives.
During the recent anniversary celebration, a commemorative plaque was unveiled in honor of Queen Camilla’s visit, symbolizing her ongoing support for the hospice and its mission. Dame Sarah Troughton, Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire, was with the Duke on this visit, stressing the royal interest in what was happening at this local charitable effort.
