Introducing Lady Dixon, a Founder of the Frailty Service

Last November we launched an appeal to raise the £300,000 we needed to fund the first three months of the Frailty Service. One way individuals and organisations could help us was by becoming a Founder of the Frailty Service, which meant making a minimum donation of £5,000. We are extremely grateful to those who have supported us in this way, including long-term hospice supporter, Lady Dixon.

What compelled you to become a Founder?

I could see the tremendous benefits for people being looked after in the local area, in a hospice community that they have heard of, or perhaps even visited, as opposed to being stuck in a hospital.

I could see how those who aren’t in need of huge amounts of hospital treatment could benefit from having somewhere safe that they know, where their family could be around them, where they could go to get everything they need to feel better.

It just sounded like the most amazing ‘new invention’ and a wonderful next progression for hospices.

Having heard from patients who have benefitted from the Frailty Service in recent BBC coverage, how does it feel to know that you’ve contributed significantly to launching a groundbreaking new service?

It’s really nice to know that myself and other people have been able to help in setting this up. I was so pleased to hear from patients who’ve been able to come into the Hospice, and get the help they needed short-term, or even a bit longer.

Who knows, one day I may need the service, or somebody else I know - the facility is now there locally.

What is it about the Frailty Service that resonates with you most strongly?

The fact that you’re not just a number in a hospital. It’s very personalised help for patients, in a far more family-orientated situation - it’s important to know that it’s a close community.

What would you say to somebody who is considering donating to the fundraising appeal?

If you can, that would be wonderful. People are now benefitting from the service that started from 2nd January. It’s just the thing we need.