East Cheshire Hospice has launched a 'once in a decade' appeal.

The Macclesfield-based charity is hoping the community will respond to their plea to purchase 16 new specialist beds at a total cost of £95,648.

 Clinical staff who care for patients on a day-to-day basis say these are more than just a place to sleep.

Claire Barber, the hospice's clinical services manager, said: "I'm making a heartfelt appeal – one that lies at the very core of the care we provide. 

"After 10 years of constant use, our specialist beds and mattresses, despite regular servicing, are no longer as safe and comfortable as we want them to be.

"We desperately need to replace them to continue offering the first-class compassionate care that every person deserves."

Claire continued: "These beds are the most vital piece of equipment in end-of-life care. They bring comfort, dignity and safety to those at their most vulnerable. The specialist mattresses help prevent bedsores by reducing pressure points. The adjustable bed helps patients find the most comfortable and supportive position and helps nurses reposition patients to relieve pain and manage breathlessness. But they also do so much more than that.

"These beds make it possible for patients to feel more at home and more connected with their loved ones. A fully adjustable bed means patients can chat face-to-face with their loved ones. Lowering the side rails makes it easier to hold hands with someone dear. The beds are also easy to move and steer so patients in bed can still enjoy being in the garden or spending time in the Family Room. They truly are so much more than just a bed."

The Brady family are among those supporting the appeal (Credit: ECH)

Among those supporting the East Cheshire Hospice Bed Appeal are the Brady family.

The late Elaine Brady benefited from such a specialist bed as hospice inpatient last year.

Pippa Williams, the inpatient unit ward manager, said: "Elaine's experience shows just how vital specialist beds are to the care we provide. They're not just pieces of equipment – they offer dignity, comfort, and precious moments of connection in someone's final weeks.

"Elaine and her family were immediately comforted by the calm, homely environment we work so hard to create. We were able to gently wheel Elaine into the heart of our family room to spend time with the people she loved, ensuring she stayed comfortable and didn't have to miss a moment – Elaine was part of every laugh, every cuddle, every memory."

Elaine's sister Tina added: "It was the worst time of our lives to see Elaine paralysed and bed bound. But she stayed so positive and upbeat, and I believe the care she received – and the comfort of the bed – made that possible.

"We wheeled Elaine's bed outside through the doors of her private room, so she and her grandson, Ned, could plant flowers in the garden together, just like they used to. Elaine felt the breeze, the sunshine on her face, and the joy of being grandma again. Elaine's greatest joy was Ned, so to be outside with him was just wonderful."

Elaine's daughter Sophie said: "We will forever be grateful for the memories the hospice provided for her and our family."

Elaine and family enjoying time together in the garden (Credit: ECH)

All 15 beds in the Inpatient unit need to be replaced, along with another in the Sunflower Living Well Centre. Each bed costs £5,978.

Claire added: "We simply can't do this without you.

"Your support today will help us ensure every person we care for can feel safe, comfortable, and surrounded by love.

"Whatever you're able to give will make a meaningful difference."

To find out how to support the appeal or to donate, visit www.echospice.org.uk/bed-appeal.