AN appeal for funds to double the number of special cuddle beds at a local hospice has surpassed all expectations.

The fundraising appeal at St Margaret’s Hospice to double the number of these special beds on their In-Patient Unit (IPU) raised £6,000 above their target of £20,000.

Combined with funds raised by supporters through swimming challenges, half marathons, and fundraising pages in memory of loved ones, and contributions from the IPU team, the total cuddle bed fund has now exceeded £36,000.

Cuddle beds are specially designed hospital beds that allow patients to lie side-by-side with loved ones, offering precious moments of closeness and comfort at the end of life.

Each bed costs £14,995, with the appeal enabling the hospice to purchase two new beds.

Additional funds raised will go directly towards supporting patient care on the IPU.

The appeal received an outpouring of support from the local community, with donors sharing personal messages about the importance of being close to loved ones during difficult times.

One supporter wrote on the dedication page: “Sometimes it’s hard to find the right words, but a cuddle says so much. This is such a special cause.”

Head of Fundraising at St Margaret’s Hospice, Hannah Roberts, said: “We are incredibly moved by the response to our Cuddle Bed Appeal.

“Thanks to the kindness and generosity of our supporters, we’ve not only reached but exceeded our goal.

“These beds will make a real difference - giving more patients and their families the chance to share meaningful moments together in the most difficult of times.”

The hospice plans to install the new beds in the coming months and anticipates that they will make a meaningful difference to many patients and their loved ones on the IPU.

St Margaret’s Hospice extends its genuine thanks to everyone who donated, fundraised, and shared the appeal.