Play our lottery Shop Make a referral Donate

Theme: Blogs

Global Recycling Day blog by Ryan Perkins

March 17, 2022 | 9:20pm

The 18th March marks Global Recycling Day – an annual day to help recognise, and celebrate, the importance recycling plays in securing the future of our planet.

I don’t think the environmental benefits of charity retail are a surprise to anyone anymore but the numbers are still shocking. At least £31 million each year is saved by charity shops for councils in waste disposal charges by diverting 339,000 tonnes of textiles away from landfill or incineration. This reduction in landfill not only saves money but it also makes a positive difference to the UK’s carbon footprint. 

The charity retail sector is not only built on sustainable principles but it provides clothing to people at a price they can afford. We offer people the opportunity to live more sustainably with the clothes, shoes, books and furniture that we sell and the message of re-use and recycle is at the core or what we do. 

Did you know charity shops re-use or recycle more than 90% of all items donated? If our shops cannot re-use or sell an item, they will seek to recycle it via a textile recycler.

Here are our top 3 tips for maximising your recycling and how our shops can help you:

  • Re-use – we have charity shops all over Greater Manchester where you can find some fantastic second hand bargains from clothes to books, to toys and games, and we even have a wedding dress shop located in Stockport where you can find your dream dress.

Christina Green shop manager

  • Repair or up-cycle – we have specialist furniture shops where you can find a treasure trove of items, including second hand beds, chairs, tables, lamps, sofas and sideboards which could make great projects to up-cycle. Plus, if you no longer need an item of furniture then donate it to our charity shops and book a free collection.

  • Reduce – one way you can reduce your plastic waste is by using our plastic-free ECOLEAF refills for a range of household products at our Heald Green charity shop. Simply bring your containers, fill them up with your chosen products and pay at the till.

By shopping with St Ann’s, you’re not only helping the planet and bagging a bargain, but your purchase helps fund the care and support we offer our patients and their families.

Has this inspired you to recycle more?

For more information about our shops and our items that we sell or how you can donate click the button below.

Click here




Rachel McMillan’s latest blog – Making a Will

March 16, 2022 | 10:15am
Rachel McMillan sat in the hospice gardenholding a metal forget-me-not

At the hospice, we always encourage open, honest conversations about advance planning for the future. Whether that’s what is most important to a person in terms of their current goals or priorities, or what they would like to happen as they approach the end of their life and when they die. 

Conversations about death and dying aren’t always easy.  People often instinctively want to shy away from talking about it. But, if we want to make sure that people receive the same high quality of care and support at the end of their life as they do when they are born, then it’s really important that we have those conversations. It’s also important that people have those conversations with those closest to them too. 

One very practical part of that process is making a Will. Many people don’t have one, but it’s a much simpler process than people think, and gives real peace of mind too. 

To help local people get their affairs in order, this March, we’re joining forces with local solicitors who have kindly agreed to waive their usual fee and provide a free Will writing service, in return for a donation to St Ann’s.   

Our Will Month is really easy to take part in and you can sign up now – simply choose a solicitor from our list, make an appointment to turn your wishes into a Will, and make your donation to the hospice.   

We’re really privileged that many people choose to remember us as part of their lasting legacy in their Will.  Just 1% of a person’s estate left to a charity like ours makes a big difference, and around a third of the care we provide is funded by the kind gifts we receive from Wills. You don’t need to leave St Ann’s a gift to take part in Will Month, but we’re always very appreciative to anyone who does think of us in this way. 

A few minutes taken putting your Will together can make a huge difference to those around you.  And, by taking part in Will Month and making a donation in lieu of the usual solicitor fees, you’ll be making a huge difference to the lives of the people we support at the hospice too.  Thank you. 

Have you made your Will?

You can find details of how to make a Will this Will Month by clicking below or by calling the Fundraising Team on 0161 498 3631. 

Click here




Rachel McMillan’s latest blog – the Manchester Midnight Walk

February 17, 2022 | 2:46pm

There’s been a lot of talk in the press and online recently about the valuable role charities have played during the pandemic. It’s amazing to read all about how people have come together in support of their local communities, even when they’ve been going through challenging times themselves.

At St Ann’s we couldn’t be more grateful to everyone from across Greater Manchester that has supported us, especially during the pandemic.

Our teams have been working really hard on the front line to ensure care could continue for people who need our specialist palliative and end of life care. We’ve had to be brave and bold, following advice and guidance to keep staff, volunteers, patients and visitors safe, whilst also taking decisions to evolve and adapt quickly to ensure our care could continue in a way that was accessible to as many people as possible.

But, we simply couldn’t have achieved what we have, or kept our doors open to provide that specialist care, without everyone who has donated and thought of us during this challenging time for all of us.


Our city is amazing. People are always ready and willing to think of others. It makes me so proud to be part of this community, and also proud that St Ann’s continues to play such an important part in serving the people of that same community too.


This year, we’re hoping we can say thank you to as many people from our local community as possible, as we’re excited that our flagship fundraising event the Manchester Midnight Walk is returning to the city centre where it belongs.

It’s the first time we’ll be able to get together to hit the city’s streets in the moonlight since 2019, and we’d love as many people to join us as possible.

The walk has raised more than £2million for our patients since it launched and the money raised really does make a huge difference to their lives.

We offer care both from our hospice sites, but also out in the community, wherever people need us. We’re also proud of some of our newer services which have enabled us to support people experiencing homelessness and those with learning disabilities; it’s so important to us that we try to reach out to everyone who needs end of life or palliative care, whatever community they are from.


The Manchester Midnight Walk is such an important flagship moment in our annual calendar, and raises much-needed funds so we can continue providing that specialist care to local people.

It’s also a really fun night, with many people taking part to celebrate the life of someone special, whilst others simply take part to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy seeing our fabulous city in a new light.


We’d love as many people as possible to join us on the evening of Friday 20th May and celebrate the walk returning to the city centre – back where it belongs. Please visit www.mmwalk.org.uk now to sign up or for more information.

Thanks again, we couldn’t do what we do without your kind support.

Don’t miss out!

Take advantage of the launch release tickets at a very special offer. This offer is only running for a limited time, so don’t delay sign up now!

Sign up now!




Celebrating our recent ‘outstanding’ CQC report

January 25, 2022 | 4:06pm

“Everyone is aware of the huge challenges that have been facing the healthcare sector during the pandemic. Media and social media channels have been full of stories of people working tirelessly on the frontline ensuring vital care can continue for those who need it.

“It’s not always easy, and that’s something we’re aware of here at St Ann’s too. Teams across the organisation have really dug deep, being brave and also bold when needed to ensure that as many people who need palliative and end of life care as possible can access it. We’ve had to be quick to respond to changing guidance, and have had to be responsive to the changing needs of our patients and those closest to them too.


Despite those challenges, I’ve been blown away by the ways teams across the hospice have pulled together to ensure we’ve been able to keep our doors open throughout the pandemic. The ways staff have collaborated with others across Greater Manchester, Cheshire and beyond. And the ways people have always kept our patients and their needs and wishes at the centre of every decision they’ve made.


Emma Dixon, Director of Clinical Services

“As Director of Clinical Services, I shout from the rooftops about our amazing care and services, and how proud I am of the team here at St Ann’s. But, you don’t just need to take my word for it.

“Last week we were so pleased to receive our latest CQC report from their independent assessors, following their inspection at our Little Hulton hospice. I’m pleased to report that the CQC team has rated us ‘outstanding’, and their report gives incredible feedback on the care and support we give to patients. You can read the full report here.

Quotes from the QCQ report and inspection

“Staff demonstrated the highest levels of compassion.” CQC

“…never come across such dedicated staff as I have in here, I have full confidence which makes me feel comfortable.” Patient contributing to CQC inspection

“Services were delivered in a way to ensure flexibility, choice and continuity of care and were tailored to meet patients’ individual needs and wishes.” CQC

“Patients consistently said staff treated them well and with kindness.” CQC

“I feel in control and I’ve not had that before.” Patient accessing the hospice’s Homeless Palliative Care Service

“Leaders ran services well, led innovations and supported staff to develop their skills.” CQC

“Staff were motivated to provide the best care they could for their patients.” CQC

“These are just a few of the comments made in the report about our care, and reading them makes me so proud. But, we’ve only been able to deliver that care, and to continue to do so despite the challenges of the pandemic, thanks to everyone in the community that supports us.

“Fundraising has been difficult, with many events and activities cancelled due to Covid restrictions. But, thanks to the amazing support of everyone who has made a donation, attended a virtual event, carried out their own fundraising, bought an item from our shops, or played our lottery, we’ve been able to continue providing care to people who need us. That’s a huge achievement, and we’re extremely grateful to everyone who has thought of us – and indeed continues to think of us.

“Your support means we can continue to provide outstanding care at a time which, for many of our patients, is one of the most vulnerable of their life.”

Thank you so much. We couldn’t do it without you.

Our services

We help people from across Greater Manchester who are over the age of 18 and affected by life-limiting illnesses, and we support their loved ones and carers too.

All our services are free of charge, and the sooner we’re involved, the more we can help.

Take a look at our services




Rachel McMillan reflects on 2021

December 23, 2021 | 10:30am

“As we approach the end of 2021, I look back and reflect on the year we’ve had. We have coped through another year living and working during a global pandemic – something none of us could have imagined we would be doing.

“Yet despite the challenges we have all faced, it’s important not to lose sight of everything we have accomplished this year too. We can also focus on the positives, celebrate our achievements and recognise how we have been resilient, adapted to change and supported each other.”


I’m so proud of the whole team at St Ann’s Hospice, who have continued to work together on the frontline throughout this year to deliver first-class care to those who need it across Greater Manchester.


As one of the oldest and largest hospices in the UK, we have celebrated our 50th anniversary during 2021: a real milestone in our history. It was an honour to welcome HRH Princess Royal to the hospice, for the second time in our history, on 7th December to meet staff, volunteers and patients and celebrate our milestone anniversary.


So many staff, volunteers, local businesses and the community have also helped us mark such a special birthday year. Your generosity and commitment by taking part in so many different events has been remarkable. Whether that’s by sharing our social media posts, visiting our shops, playing our hospice lottery, making a donation, or organise your own fundraiser – we are hugely grateful.


As many of you will know, as a charity we need to raise £20,000 a day to provide specialist care from our two hospice sites and our range of community and outreach services. We simply wouldn’t have been able to continue providing that care without the support and generosity of our local communities.

As we approach 2022, we’re looking ahead to another exciting year in our history and starting to build our new hospice facility in Heald Green. This new hospice will enable us to continue to develop our world-class care delivery, and be at the forefront of innovative specialist palliative and end of life care for the next 50 years and beyond.

I am so proud to stand side by side with so many amazing people; our staff, volunteers, supporters, local community, local businesses and other colleagues across health and social care, who I know are ready to enter the next chapter with us. Every member of the community make St Ann’s what it is – thank you for your support.

As we say farewell to 2021, we welcome 2022 with energy, excitement and positivity. Thank you again to everyone who has supported us this year, or who is thinking of making a donation over the festive period. It makes such a difference.

I’d like to wish you all a very happy, healthy and peaceful Christmas.

Rachel McMillan

Chief Executive, St Ann’s Hospice

5 minutes with… Lisa Corbett, Safeguarding Lead at St Ann’s Hospice

November 12, 2021 | 2:58pm

What attracted you to work at St Ann’s? 

My first experience of St Ann’s was as a community Social Worker. I visited several times to support with discharge planning. The depth of compassion and dedication shown by all the staff always struck me, and the welcoming atmosphere.         

I also have a personal connection to St Ann’s, as my brother was cared for at St Ann’s Hospice. It was truly comforting to know that he and his family were so well cared for at the end of his life.      

When an opportunity to work at the hospice arose, I instantly knew it was a place I wanted to work. I have been extremely fortunate to work at the hospice for nearly 9 years. I’m Team Leader of the Patient and Family Support Team and also Safeguarding Lead at the Hospice. 

What does safeguarding mean? 

Safeguarding is about keeping people safe from harm, abuse and neglect. It is about supporting individuals to make their own choices and promoting the wellbeing of the person, making sure we treat people as individuals and take into account their thoughts, feelings, wishes and beliefs. 

What does your role as Safeguarding Lead involve? 

St Ann’s Hospice takes its safeguarding responsibilities very seriously. We make every effort to make sure we provide safe and effective care. My role as the Safeguarding Lead is to help ensure the Hospice continues to provide excellent care and is a safe setting for patients, families, staff and volunteers. 

My role includes:         

  • Ensuring our safeguarding policies and procedures are up to date. 
  • Making sure patients and their families, staff and volunteers know what to do if they have a safeguarding concern. 
  • Training all staff to understand the signs and symptoms of abuse and neglect 
  • Providing support and advice to all staff and volunteers regarding policy, procedure and their responsibilities in safeguarding.    
  • Managing safeguarding concerns and liaising with partner agencies such as Social Services and the NHS.   
  • Maintaining and reviewing St Ann’s strategic plan for safeguarding. 
  • Supporting an honest and open culture at the hospice.  

What’s one thing that most people don’t know about you?  

I have a degree in Fine Art and before training to become a Social Worker I worked as an Artist. I gained grant sponsorship from North West Arts to provide Art sessions in the community and discovered that I had a passion for working with people.   

What do you like to do when you’re not at work? 

I love taking my dog Isla on long walks, especially if there is opportunity for a pint of the local brew in a cosy country pub…however we invariably only get to sit outside the pub as she’s a bit of mucky pup!  

How we help

Find out more




One year as Chief Executive

October 5, 2021 | 9:26am

There are many significant dates in our diaries that we celebrate, reflect on or cherish throughout our lives. The fifth of October 2020 is one date that I will be marking this year, and I hope for many years to come. That was the day I started my journey as CEO of St Ann’s.

Today I celebrate one year in post and what a year it has been! This time last year we were just about to go into another national lockdown due the coronavirus pandemic. The whole hospice team were working tirelessly to ensure we kept our services going to meet the needs of our patients and their families.


I look back to that time and feel immensely proud of how resilient, hardworking and compassionate everyone was and still are, as we continue to live alongside COVID-19 and the other challenges we face as a charitable organisation. The sense of camaraderie has been overwhelming and remarkable.


Rachel McMillan sat in the hospice gardenholding a metal forget-me-not

I reflect on how quickly this last year has flown by yet packed with so many things to celebrate. The 50th anniversary has been a real milestone in our history. Despite what has been happening around us, we have received so much support and generosity from our community, staff, volunteers and supporters taking part in lots of activities, celebrating the last 50 years and in turn looking to the future. The fundraising team and the trading company have been exceptional, acting with innovation and courage to try new things to generate income.

We have so much to look forward to as we continue with our ambitious strategy to build a new purpose-built hospice adjacent to our existing building in Heald Green. This will enable us to continue to develop our world-class care and be at the forefront of innovative specialist palliative and end of life care for the next 50 years and beyond.

Over the last year we have also made a significant improvement to our Little Hulton hospice to modernise our reception and café area so that it is welcoming and inclusive to all.

Only just last week we announced our Gold accreditation for Investors in People, gold in our golden year! This is a fantastic achievement and something to be proud of.

The teams have also shown a real drive for success in developing and implementing a clinical roadmap to recovery. Everyone across the whole organisation has been adaptable and accountable in how they contribute to delivering our purpose.


The transition into the role of Chief Executive has been seamless and I work with an amazing team. I am grateful to all of you who inspire me, who challenge me to be my best self. Every day there is something new, something more to consider, something else to learn. It’s exciting and rewarding and fills me with energy. I still have to pinch myself each day as I feel so lucky to be able to lead the hospice into the next chapter.


Where there’s a Will, there’s a way…

September 24, 2021 | 2:37pm

Death isn’t something any of us want to think about, but it’s something that has sadly been in the minds of many of us over the last year. 

At the hospice, we encourage honest conversations about death and dying.  Whilst end of life care is only a small part of what we do at St Ann’s, talking to patients about their own personal wishes is extremely important. 

Our teams support each individual to achieve their goals as much as we can.  Everyone is different, and for some they may wish to spend time at home with those closest to them.  For others, they may want to arrange a get-together with loved ones, or to make sure that all of their affairs are in order for their family. 

Making a Will is just one part of that process, and it’s humbling that many of our patients also choose to remember us as part of their lasting legacy.

  • Around a third of the care we provide is funded by people leaving a gift in their Will, and however large or small it really does make a huge difference to the care of future patients.   

Just 1% of a person’s estate left to a charity makes a big difference, and means that 99% remains for those closest to the individual.  It’s a way of giving that doesn’t cost a penny now, but means the future sustainability of good causes like ours. 

People often put off writing a Will, and whether you choose to remember a charity or not, it’s something that is easy to do and that gives real peace of mind.  It’s much simpler to support a charity in this way than many people think too.  To do so, you simply need to give your solicitor the organisation’s name and registered charity number and they will do the rest. 

A few simple minutes; a hugely kind gesture; an incredible difference to the lives of the people those charities support in the future; and a lasting legacy – what an amazing thing to do.


What happens to our estate when we die may not be something at the top of the list of things we want to think about, but it is something which can make a huge difference not only to future generations of those closest to us, but to others in our community too.


Rachel McMillan, Chief Executive of St Ann’s

Find out more

Click the link below to find out more or speak to Lisa Ball in the Fundraising Team on 0161 498 3631

Click here