Earlier this year, members of the Lodge of Fortitude No. 105 were delighted to make a contribution in support of St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth, a charity that touches so many lives across our community.
Representatives from the hospice joined the Lodge to share more about the incredible work being done. Among them was Sarah Wallis, Partnership Lead at St Luke’s, along with front-line nurse Courtney Barrett – whose attendance was especially meaningful as she is the granddaughter of the Lodge’s own Director of Ceremonies, Phillip Tremayne.
St Luke’s provides vital care to patients and their families, with around 300 people being supported at any one time and more than 3,000 cared for each year. While some are admitted to the in-patient unit at Turnchapel, the vast majority – around 93% – receive care in their own homes across a wide area, not just those living in and around Plymouth.
Running such an essential service costs around £14 million each year. With only 23% of this covered by government funding, St Luke’s relies heavily on donations, legacies, its lottery, and charity shops. Community support is therefore crucial, ensuring that families receive the care they need at the most difficult of times.
The Lodge’s earlier contribution formed part of our wider community effort, which was announced earlier this year, ensuring a minimum level of support to St Luke’s from across Devonshire. This will help maximise the impact of every gift and strengthen the continued support of this much-valued charity.
The evening of the presentation was rounded off with friends, families, and Lodge members sharing a buffet and raffle in good spirits – a fitting way to celebrate the remarkable work of St Luke’s and the strong ties between the charity and our community.