You may or may not know that Hampshire Hospitals has a registered charity that works alongside the trust, providing valuable resources for patients and staff. Here Mark Hainy, their Head of Charity, explains a little more about the impact the charity has across our hospitals and how you can get involved…
When someone you love is unwell, the difference that compassionate care and the right facilities can make is immeasurable. At the heart of our local healthcare community, Hampshire Hospitals Charity works tirelessly to enhance the experience of patients, their families, and the dedicated NHS staff who care for them every day.
Who we are
Hampshire Hospitals Charity is the official charity for Hampshire Hospitals, supporting hospitals in Basingstoke, Winchester and Andover, along with community services across the local area. While the NHS provides core treatment and services, the charity goes a step further, funding projects, equipment, environments, and initiatives that make a real difference to patients and staff every day.
From creating calming spaces for families, to supporting pioneering research and purchasing medical equipment, every project funded by the charity has one goal: to transform hospital experiences for everyone from good to exceptional.
How your support helps: Jasmine and Matt’s story
Jasmine Wheaton and Matt Snook from Basingstoke experienced unimaginable grief last year, welcoming twins, Evie and Noah, into the world under heartbreaking circumstances. Before their arrival, they were informed that Evie had Edwards syndrome and wasn’t expected to survive long. After just 99 minutes, little Evie passed away. Two weeks later, Noah fell ill with Group B Strep and sepsis, and then the devastating news came that he had suffered severe, irreversible brain damage and was unlikely to recover. In the compassionate butterfly suit at Basingstoke, a nurturing, private space created by the hospital, they said goodbye to Noah at just 21 days old.
During this dark time, the hospital and the charity lifted the family with practical and emotional support. Matt said, “We didn’t expect it at all. The whole team was just perfect. I’ve even joined a football team supported by the charity for bereaved dads. Because of all this, we wanted to thank them and provide something that other parents would find useful.”
When Jasmine and Matt organised the twins’ funerals, they asked well-wishers to donate to the fund to help others navigating baby loss. They were astounded by the generosity and support they received.
Thanks to these donations, a serene memory garden was created at Old Basing House in memory of Evie and Noah. Featuring a graceful cherry tree and a comforting bench, it offers bereaved parents a tranquil space to reflect and remember. The charity has also committed to providing annual membership for bereaved parents, so they may visit whenever they need a peaceful haven.
How we spend your valued donations
Thanks to the generosity of donors, fundraisers, and corporate partners, in recent years Hampshire Hospitals Charity has been able to:
- Fund medical equipment that enables faster diagnoses and better treatment.
- Improve hospital environments, making wards and waiting areas more welcoming and comfortable.
- Support staff wellbeing, ensuring the people who care for us have the help and resources they need.
- Back innovative projects and research, helping to shape the future of healthcare in our community.
Every gift has a direct impact on local people when they need it most.
How you can get involved
If you feel inspired to help enhance our hospitals even further, there are so many ways you can support Hampshire Hospitals Charity and be part of our work:
- Make a donation – You can make a one-off donation or set up a regular gift to help fund vital projects.
- Fundraise your way – Take on a challenge, organise an event, or create your own fundraiser in support of the charity. Our team is here to help.
- Join an event – From community fun runs to family days out, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.
- Corporate partnerships – Local businesses can support through sponsorship, staff fundraising, or charity of the year programmes.
- Leave a legacy – A gift in your will can help future generations benefit from excellent care.
- Join our lottery – From £1 a week, you have the chance to win up to £25,000, as well as helping to fund future projects.
Together, we really can make a difference
Hampshire Hospitals Charity belongs to the community and is powered by the kindness and generosity of local people, for the benefit of local people. By supporting the charity, you’re helping to ensure that patients and staff across your local area continue to have access to the very best care, facilities, and support.
If you’d like to find out more, get involved, or start fundraising, visit hampshirehospitalscharity.org
Thank you!
Mark Hainy
Head of Charity
