How do I set up a JustGiving page in aid of Weldmar?

It’s quick and easy to get a JustGiving page set up for your Weldmar Fundraiser! Log into, or create, your account on the JustGiving website and select ‘Start Fundraising’ on the top menu bar. When asked “What are you raising money for?”, select ‘A Charity’. Search for ‘Weldmar Hospicecare’. You can either select a pre-existing event we have created from the list (for example, our Overseas Trek), or if you are doing your own fundraising challenge or event select ‘Doing your own thing’ at the bottom of the page. Choose your fundraising page URL – this is the link you’ll... Learn more

Do I need to be an existing Weldmar patient in order to be referred to Weldmar at Home?

Usually, patients that are seen at home by a member of the Weldmar at Home team will be known to us, most often having been referred earlier and seen at home by a Weldmar Community Nurse. However, we are absolutely committed to ensuring that care can be provided in the home to anyone who has a wish to die in their familiar and comfortable surroundings, so a referral may come to us for patients who, for example, are about to leave hospital without a package of care being in place.

Do you use ‘Macmillan nurses’?

No, we do not use Macmillan nurses. Macmillan is a very separate charity to Weldmar, and do not have community specialist palliative care nurses working in West Dorset.

How can I be referred for complementary therapy?

You can be referred for Complementary Therapy by any member of the Weldmar team who supports you.

How do I change my contact preferences with you?

We like to make it as straightforward as possible to change the way that we contact you as a supporter of Weldmar Hospicecare. Please fill out this form if you would like to change how we contact you, or end communication. You can also read our privacy policy.

How do I make a complaint?

All Weldmar staff are here to help you, and are pleased to receive any ideas, comments, or suggestions you may have for improving our services. We are also anxious to hear if you are unhappy about any aspect of our services so we can make improvements. When a matter is raised, we will try to deal with it promptly. If you would like to make a complaint, please read our complaints procedure.

How long will I stay at the Inpatient Unit?

The average length of stay for patients admitted for symptom control is two weeks, however this is determined by individual need.

I have items to donate to your charity shops – will you collect them?

Thank you for supporting Weldmar Hospicecare by donating items for our charity shops! We really appreciate it. Our charity shops do not make collections or deliveries, but our larger outlets do collect larger items such as furniture free of charge in their surrounding areas – these are based in Weymouth, Dorchester (who will collect/deliver from across the west of Dorset), Blandford, and Shaftesbury. Our outlets will also deliver items, but there is a small charge for this service. If you would like to enquire about delivery or collection, please contact your nearest Weldmar Outlet.

I would like to volunteer – what do I do?

Firstly, thank you! We couldn’t do what we do without the help and expertise of volunteers. You might like to help out in one of our shops, on reception at our Inpatient Unit, at a fundraising event, or driving patients to appointments. You can find more about becoming part of Team Weldmar here, including the current vacancies we are looking to fill with volunteers. Even if you don’t see an opportunity there that suits you, there is a form to fill in to tell us more about what you would like to do, and we’ll be in touch.

Is counselling confidential?

Yes, what is said between you and your counsellor remains confidential with some exceptions such as you being at risk of harm.

What care does Weldmar at Home provide?

The care provided by Weldmar at Home will vary from patient to patient, to fit in with their needs and requirements. Some people tell us that they value care overnight so that their family can rest. Others tell us that they would like a little bit of help during the day for example with washing, dressing or changing the bed sheets. We don’t do domestic chores such as housework or shopping, but can be there to be with the patient whilst other family members do those chores, if needed.

What is the visitor policy at your Inpatient Unit?

Patients can welcome their close family and friends to visit them whilst they are staying at the Inpatient Unit.

What items do you take in your charity shops and outlets – and what can I not donate?

Thank you for considering Weldmar Hospicecare as the charity to donate your items to. We welcome any donations of good quality items – there are only a few things we cannot take. If you would like to check whether we will accept certain items before bringing them in, please contact your nearest Weldmar charity shop or outlet, who will be more than happy to help. The whole area of recycling has changed for all charities. We can no longer dispose of any broken, damaged or unsaleable items. We no longer have anywhere to recycle these goods and, in fact, have... Learn more

Will I have to go to the hospice for my last days?

If you are being seen by one of our Weldmar Community Nurse Specialists, they will be able to have conversations with you about where you wish to be cared for towards the end of life.

How often will I be seen at home by my Weldmar Community Nurse?

Everyone’s needs are different. Following each consultation, your Weldmar Community Nurse will agree with you the date and time of the next visit.

How can I raise money for Weldmar on Facebook?

Facebook fundraisers are a fantastic way to to fundraise, and best of all they’re very simple to set up! You must set up a Facebook fundraiser on your computer. On your computer, log in to Facebook. On the left, click fundraiser heart coin Fundraisers. Tip: If you can’t see Fundraisers on the left-hand side, then click See more. On the left-hand side, click Raise money. Click Charity. You can either: Scroll to find the charity you want to raise money for Type into the search bar to find the charity you want to raise money for Once you have selected... Learn more

Why do I feel ‘abandoned’ by the hospital when they stopped seeing me and referred me to Weldmar?

Sometimes it's hard to accept that there is ‘no more hospital treatment’. However a referral to a Weldmar Community Nurse Specialist will give you chance to address some of these feelings.

Can I refer myself and ask for a visit from one of your nurses?

We are not able to accept a self referral. You would need to talk to either your GP or health care professional involved in your care.

Can Weldmar help me with posters and banners for my fundraising?

Yes we can! If you would like us to create a poster for you for your event, we can certainly do that. Please ensure you provide as much notice as you can, and all the information you would like included. TOP TIP: Whilst you want to include all of the key information about your event, it’s a good idea to keep the number of words as low as possible. Keep it concise and clear. To show that you are supporting Weldmar at your event, we can provide banners and flags, subject to availability. If you would like to find out... Learn more

Are meals provided at Wellbeing Sessions?

Light refreshments will be available throughout the sessions. If you are attending a session at the Inpatient Unit, you may wish to take advantage of our Orangery Bistro where refreshments, hot and cold meals and light bites are available between the hours of 12noon and 2pm. You could pre order a meal to enjoy after your morning session or before your afternoon session. There is a varied menu to choose from, at very reasonable prices. Please order at reception.

But many of my contacts have already been approached for donations by other fundraising campaigns – will they really want to donate to my cause?

Yes! They will not necessarily be donating for the cause itself, but simply because you have a personal connection with them and it is you who is asking! The cause is sometimes a secondary reason for donating. Perhaps they have asked you to support them in the past, and they will be happy to return the favour.

Can Gift Aid be claimed on a donation?

Yes, as long as the donor is eligible and has completed a Gift Aid declaration with us. There will be a tick box on the donation form for those that wish to apply Gift Aid to it.

Can I do a Street Collection for Weldmar Hospicecare?

Yes, you can do street collections for Weldmar. However, there are strict guidelines set in place by The Fundraising Regulator which must be followed.

Can I generate a QR code for my JustGiving page to use on posters etc?

Yes you can! Adding a QR code to your posters, leaflets etc, can enable people to quickly access your JustGiving page using the camera on their smartphone, which automatically picks up the link. We would recommend not using QR codes on social media or elsewhere digitally – people will usually be browsing on the device the would scan it from! To obtain a QR code: Set up your JustGiving page (guidance on how to do this is also in this set of common questions). View your page, and add ‘/qrcode’ to the end of the website address in your browser... Learn more

Can I just turn up to a Wellbeing Session?

No, you can’t just turn up to a Wellbeing Session, as we need to ensure we have enough support staff to assist with the sessions. It is also important that we do not exceed the capacity of the space we use. With this in mind, we ask that you call to book into a session, if possible, with at least 24 hours’ notice on 01305 215206.

Can I phone my contacts to ask them to donate?

Certainly – phone calls can be very powerful and are of course more personal.

Can I see a counsellor/supporter with my loved one/significant other?

Yes, you can see a counsellor with my loved one/significant other.

Can I see my counsellor/supporter in person?

Yes, you can meet in person in a room at the Inpatient Unit in Dorchester, or Trimar House in Weymouth.

Can I smoke at the Inpatient Unit?

A designated smoking area is available at the Inpatient Unit site for patients only, who are able to use it safely and independently.

Can I use cloakroom tickets for a raffle in advance of an event date?

Unfortunately not, you can't use cloakroom tickets for a raffle in advanced of an event date.

Can dogs come to the Summer Fete?

Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads. We will be providing some shaded areas and water for them.

Can my partner attend a Wellbeing Session with me?

Attending our Wellbeing Support Sessions gives you an opportunity to have some time to yourself, to make new friends, and have experiences that are just for you. If you feel anxious about attending alone, you are welcome to bring your partner or carer with you for a coffee visit for your first session (where capacity allows), but after that, we encourage you to come alone, as it is a day specifically for you.

Can my pet visit the Inpatient Unit?

Yes, pets are very welcome to visit you on the Inpatient Unit

Can people also donate with cash, cheques, charity vouchers or bank transfer or is it only via the Charity Extra website?

Yes, you can accept cash, cheques, charity vouchers and bank transfers from people. These are called ‘offline donations’ and you will need to contact one of the team (this must be done during the campaign itself – contact details found at the top of this document) in order to have them added to your page. For bank transfers, please contact the fundraising team. Cheques/vouchers should be addressed to ‘Weldmar Hospicecare’ and sent to the following address with a covering letter to state the donation is for the Making Every Moment Matter Campaign: Weldmar Hospicecare Fundraising Team Weldmar Offices, Hammick House... Learn more

Can relatives stay overnight at the Inpatient Unit?

Marion’s Room We have one family room, Marion’s Room, which features a dining area, a large television and sofas, its own kitchen facilities, bathroom, and will allow family members to stay with loved ones in more comfort. It includes both a patient and visitor bed which can be connected together to create a double bed to allow for a couple and families to be even closer together if needed and the room also has a sofa bed so additional family members can stay too. Double doors lead out onto a patio, and access to the gardens outside our Orangery restaurant. Some... Learn more

Can you help me with my mobility and accessing the toilet at a Wellbeing Session?

We can assist with your mobility, whether it be walking alongside you to provide support, or using a wheelchair to help you get around the building. We have plenty of support workers available to assist. In some sites, we have access to hoisting facilities too. An assessment would be carried out by your Weldmar Community Nurse prior to attending, to ensure we could safely meet your mobility needs.

Do I need to do anything in order to set up my page?

No. Your page will be set up for you, so you do not need to do anything unless you want to add any personalisation – such as videos/pictures or any personal message/blurb about why this cause is important to you.

Do I need to get undressed for complementary therapy?

Your dignity will be maintained at all times, however therapists are able to adapt or offer other therapies that allow you to remain dressed.

Do I need to pay for the services of a physio or occupational therapist?

The services of a physio or occupational therapist, including equipment provision, are completely free of charge.

Do you collect/deliver donations at Dorchester Clearance at Poundbury?

We do not accept or collect donations at this outlet. We do however deliver furniture within the postcodes of DT1/DT2/DT6/DT7/DT8. A small charge is made for this service payable when you buy your furniture. Our Dorchester Outlet, just round the corner on the Marabout Trading Estate, does collect and accept donations of items.

Do you collect/deliver donations from your charity shops?

Thank you for supporting Weldmar Hospicecare by donating items for us to sell! We really appreciate it. Our shops do not make collections or deliveries, but our larger outlets do collect larger items such as furniture free of charge in their surrounding areas – these are based in Weymouth, Dorchester (who will collect/deliver from across the west of Dorset), Blandford, and Shaftesbury. Our outlets will also deliver items, but there is a small charge for this service. If you would like to enquire about delivery or collection, please contact your nearest Weldmar Outlet.

Do you collect/deliver donations from your outlet in Blandford?

We will come out and look at your items for sell, and if they are in good, clean, sellable condition with the correct fire labels on soft furnishings we will take the items away that day.

Do you collect/deliver donations from your outlet in Shaftesbury?

We will collect furniture donations subject to inspection in Shaftesbury and our area covered extends to Sherborne, Tisbury, Mere, Zeals and Wincanton.

Do you collect/deliver donations from your outlet on the Granby in Weymouth?

We can collect and deliver items from our outlet on the Granby in Weymouth.

Do you collect/deliver donations from your outlet on the Marabout in Dorchester?

We collect items of furniture from DT1/DT2/Dt6/DT7/DT8.

Do you work with my oncologist?

If you are still being seen by your oncologist, then our nurses do liaise with both them and your hospital clinical nurse specialist

How can I access the service for input from a Physiotherapist or an Occupational Therapist?

You should talk to your Weldmar Community Nurse or GP about being referred to our team for an assessment.

How can I promote my event online?

Facebook groups are a great way to promote your event online.

How do I get in touch to arrange a counselling session?

You can contact Weldmar Hospicecare directly, via our Inpatient Unit reception.

How do I prepare for writing or updating a Will?

Before visiting your solicitor, or making your Will online, it’s a good idea to prepare. Think about: What it is you own Who you want to remember in your Will The two people (executors) who will carry out the wishes in your Will How you would like to leave a gift to a charity, such as Weldmar Hospicecare. If you have already written your Will, it’s a good idea to review it every five to ten years to ensure it still reflects your wishes.

Each individual or team (Champions!) will have a personalised page on the Charity Extra website, which feeds into the wider campaign. You will get your own link to your personal page, which you can forward to your contacts/potential donors via Text Message, WhatsApp, social media, or email, making it super-easy for them to donate to your cause at the click of a button! As you contact your list of potential donors, you should hopefully start to raise some money and you can view your incoming donations in real time on your page! The main campaign page displays the overall information... Learn more

As excitement builds for Stampede by the Sea, Ponty the elephant prepares for a week of family bus rides with First Wessex

12th August 2024

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Fundraising News

Weldmar Hospicecare’s Stampede by the Sea art trail may be a number of months away, but anticipation is already building locally.

The trail, in partnership with Wild in Art, will see around fifty vibrantly decorated elephants around Bridport, West Bay and Lyme Regis for eight weeks in spring 2025, to raise vital funds for Weldmar Hospicecare, as well as awareness for the charity in the west of Dorset.

Transport Partners, First Wessex buses, are helping Ponty enjoy his summer holidays with some trips on the Jurassic Coaster, and offering special offers and prizes for families getting involved with finding Ponty on his travels.

They are offering a special discounted Group Day Dorset Ticket for up to five people for £10, rather than £25. Tickets can be purchased on the First Bus app or via the driver, cash or contactless.

Maps to help follow Ponty can be found at the First Wessex Information Kiosk by Kings Statue in Weymouth, as well as Ponty stickers if he is successfully spotted. Passengers also have the chance to follow Ponty on social media and if they post a picture, with the hashtag #pontyonthebus they can come to the kiosk to get a free bus ticket for future use.

Here’s which bus you can find Ponty on each day:

X52 Weymouth to Bridport Monday 12 August
Portland Coaster Weymouth to Portland Bill Tuesday 13 August
X50 Weymouth to Swanage Wednesday 14 August
Portland Coaster Weymouth to Portland Bill Thursday 15 August
X50 Weymouth to Swanage Friday 16 August
X52 Weymouth to Bridport Saturday 17 August
X50 Weymouth to Swanage Sunday 18 August

Excitement builds for Stampede by the Sea - ponty the elephant on a First Wessex Bus in Portland overlooking Chesil Beach and Weymouth

First Wessex’s excitement for Stampede by the Sea

James Eustace, First Bus South’s Commercial Director, said: “We’re excited to help Ponty on his bus holiday, showing people the beautiful elephant sculpture that will be part of Weldmar Hospicecare’s Stampede by the Sea art trail.

“As Transport Partners for the trail, we wanted to help people see that getting out by bus is a brilliant way to travel. We hope next spring when the trail is in full swing that we can encourage people to choose the bus to access Stampede by the Sea.”

Caroline Hamblett, Weldmar Hospicecare CEO, said: “Stampede by the Sea is going to be a brilliant way to raise not just much needed funds, but awareness of the specialist care Weldmar provides to local adults with a life limiting illness, and support for their loved ones.”

“It’s so good to see, even with a few months to go before the trail goes live, that the excitement is building and thank you to First Wessex for getting people talking about what will be a fantastic event. I’m absolutely sure Ponty is going to love his week on holiday, enjoying the iconic views from the Jurassic Coaster, and no doubt getting lots of attention from travellers of all ages.”

Pictured top: Leane from First Wessex joins Fiona and Eden from Weldmar Hospicecare to launch ‘Ponty on the Bus’

We’re looking for support from the local business community to become sponsors and partners for Stampede by the Sea, and encouraging local artists to submit designs for the elephant sculptures.

Visit the Stampede by the Sea wesite

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As excitement builds for Stampede by the Sea, Ponty the elephant prepares for a week of family bus rides with First Wessex

Here’s which bus you can find Ponty on each day:

First Wessex’s excitement for Stampede by the Sea

Stampede by the Sea

Remember a loved one with a dedication on our Memory Elephant

Calling all artists! It’s time to get creative for Weldmar’s Stampede by the Sea