LEWIS-Manning Hospice Care in Poole is preparing to deliver ‘Bags of Kindness’ to their patients and families in East Dorset.

This initiative was devised by a member of the hospice's fundraising team, with the charity’s Director of Clinical Services, Ruth Burnhill keen for it to occur as a result of the difficulties people have faced recently.

She said: "We know how difficult lockdown has been for so many of our patients. It’s been a very isolating experience for them. Not only are they living with the challenges of a life-limiting illness but many are living alone and have hugely missed the social interaction and care that they usually receive by coming in to Day Care at Lewis- Manning Hospice Care.

"We wanted to spread some happiness, cheer them up and offer a distraction to their days."

Local businesses have wholeheartedly supported this initiative as the hospice received donations from Lush, chocolates from The Chocolate Boutique Hotel in Bournemouth, copies of Dorset Magazine, Dorset Tea, Jimmy’s Iced Coffee, bottles from the Dorset Ginger company, a selection of jams from Cherry Tree Preserves and some Moores Biscuits.

A group of friends decided to sponsor the cost of the bags after hearing about the initiative.

Ruth added: "We have been overwhelmed by the gratitude shown by local companies and volunteer groups during this difficult time."

The bags also feature a poem and tongue twisters written by the hospice’s Arts Co-ordinator, Karen England.

By including these in the bags, Karen wanted to spread positivity while keeping people's brains active during lockdown.

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care CEO, Clare Gallie said: "The work and vital services that Lewis-Manning Hospice Care provides is priceless to the patients dealing with life-limiting illnesses across East Dorset and the charity plans to help battle their loneliness and put smiles on their faces, one bag of kindness at a time.

"This project is something the charity would like to expand on in the future, so if any local volunteer groups or businesses would like to get involved in this initiative please speak to a member of our fundraising team on fundraisingteam@lewis-manning.org.uk or call 01202 708470."