A stitch in time is raising hundreds of pounds for Tynedale Hospice at Home thanks to the creative talents of staff from Hexham-based company Dipsticks Research.
Self-taught knitters Alison Pringle, operations manager, and Karen Dodd, deputy operations manager, are knitting prolifically in a bid to meet a Christmas rush of orders for some cute and cuddly knitted toys which they are selling in aid of Tynedale Hospice at Home.
The knitted toys include snowmen in a range of outfits, including football kits (Newcastle and Sunderland!), and mini Christmas puddings containing sweet treats.
Their fundraising efforts are part of the company’s pledge to raise money by becoming a Business Ambassador for Tynedale Hospice at Home.
By signing up to become a Business Ambassador, they are helping to ensure that the services provided by Tynedale Hospice at Home are there for people who need them.
There are a range of different levels of Business Ambassador membership from as little as £35 per year, which includes a pledge to display one of the Hospice’s collection cans and encouraging staff to fundraise for the Hospice. In exchange, the Hospice will offer fundraising advice and support and businesses will receive a free listing on the Hospice’s website.
Since becoming a Business Ambassador Dipsticks Research has had a bake sale, sold raffle tickets, and hosted a Christmas hamper. They have also been selling their knitted toys to staff and their families in the run up to Christmas.
Karen Dodd, whose came up with the knitting fundraiser, said: “With Christmas approaching I wanted to think of ways of raising money with a festive twist. I tried knitting when I was a child and quite enjoyed it so decided to give it another go. I watched a knitting video on You Tube and it went from there. I made a prototype snowman and showed it to work colleagues who all said they would
like one. Before I knew it I was addicted and I now spend my evenings and lunch hours knitting to keep up with the orders that we are taking from colleagues, family and friends.”
Fellow knitter Alison Pringle added: “We are delighted to be a Business Ambassador for Tynedale Hospice at Home. Most people know someone who have experienced a life-limiting illness and we are so lucky to have a charity like the Hospice on our doorstep that can make such a difference to people who need its services.
“One of the appeals of the Business Ambassador Scheme is that you aren’t committed to fundraising in one particular way. We can pick and choose the different activities we want to get involved with and that we think staff will support.
“As we’re a local business in the heart of the Hexham community being able to support a charity that serves the local community is important to us and Tynedale Hospice at Home really does sit in the heart of our community, and makes such a difference to the lives of local people.”
Dipsticks Research have been long term supporters of Tynedale Hospice at Home and in the last year they have raised over £1,000 through various fundraising activities.
Laura Elliott, fundraising manager at Tyndale Hospice at Home, said: “We are delighted that Dipsticks Research has joined our Business Ambassador scheme. Their enthusiasm and commitment to supporting Tynedale Hospice at Home is greatly appreciated. Thanks to their involvement they are helping us to offer end of life care to around 100 patients a year as well as supporting hundreds of other people through our Hospital Transport and Family Support Services.
“Supporting a worthwhile cause can have lots of positive benefits for businesses. It provides opportunities to work together on fun activities which can contribute to positive staff moral and improved team working.”
Tynedale Hospice at Home’s Business Ambassador Scheme is open to businesses of all sizes who are passionate about making a difference in the community in which they work. Businesses can sign up for as little as £35 a year and includes:
- A listing for your business on Tynedale Hospice at Home’s website
- A fundraising pack and fundraising support to make the most of fundraising opportunities
- A collection can for your business premises
- Tynedale Hospice at Home will help you introduce Payroll Giving for your staff if they would like to donate regularly.
To find out more about becoming a Business Ambassador visit www.tynedalehospice.com/opportunities-for-businesses/