A HOSPICE in Lilliput has received a generous donation of £1,000 to purchase equipment to enable them to provide overnight care.

Lewis-Manning Hospice, on Crichel Mount Road, were given the money by J.P Morgan to use in the 15 ensuite bedrooms which provide respite, rehabilitation and end-of-life care for people with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses.

Richard Scotson, a member of the community relations committee at JP Morgan, visited the hospice to see the new building work, which has enhanced the facilities that Lewis-Manning Hospice is able to offer.

He said: "We appreciated the opportunity to visit and have been delighted to offer some help and support."

The hospice has been running for 23 years and provides free care and support for around 700 patients each year, with running costs currently totalling £1.2million annually. Around 80-per-cent of those funds come from the hospice's charity shops, legacies, fundraising and donations from the public, with the rest coming from the hospices contract with Dorset CCG. This amount will reach £2.8million once the bedrooms are fully opened as each opens its doors on a phased basis.

Facilities at Lewis-Manning Hospice include a day hospice, lymphoedema clinic, better breathing clinic, education service for healthcare professionals new view programme and carers support group.

Kevin Mounce, trusts and grants relationship officer, said: "The donation we have received from J.P. Morgan has allowed us to buy some equipment for the bedrooms which will benefit the patients.

"We aim to give our patients the best possible care and treatment that can be provided."

J.P. Morgan employs 4,000 people at its technology and operations centre in Bournemouth and Mr Scotson says that it has a strong history of community engagement.

For more information on the work of the hospice or to find out about fundraising, go to lewis-manning.co.uk or call 01202 701000.