Some of you may know that I volunteer at The Long House in Holsworthy, North Devon Hospice’s (relatively) new building. The Long House opened in September 2015 and has provided over 1,200 sessions of care since. This ranges from one-to-one counselling and complementary therapies, to family craft and nurse consultations days.
Wellbeing days are held each month where those dealing with a life-limiting illness and their carers can come along and get their hair cut, have a facial, massage, reflexology or manicure. It’s a chance to relax and be pampered.
The Long House is a really wonderful space, totally non clinical, friendly and welcoming, decorated beautifully, exuding peace and tranquillity. The staff there, both employed and voluntary are, in my opinion, truly amazing.
So, I had the idea a while ago now, to put on a fund raiser for the Hospice to do something small to give a little bit back. I mentioned the idea to the lovely Donna Henry, of Mad Henry’s Vintage Tea Room, Riverside Cottage – my partner in the Beauty Pamper & Vintage High Tea we offer – and she, in her always generous spirit said “Why don’t we hold it here?”
So we did …….
The idea was we offered a “Taster” pamper treatment of, say, 10-15 minutes, plus tea and cakes – handmade by Donna – all for £5. This would then be donated direct to the Hospice. We didn’t want to make it too expensive as we wanted to encourage ladies to attend.
I arrived early and set up, wanting to make sure I was fully prepared and organised for the people coming through the doors (I hoped!). Donna had received many calls and enquiries about the event, and we were both a bit nervous and excited at the prospect of it being well attended.
I need not have worried; the event started at 10am and a group of ladies came through the door pretty much on the hour. I was offering a Relaxing Facial or Foot & Leg Massage as these are practical for a short “mini” treatment. Although I did end up doing some seated back, neck and shoulder massages too!
We had a small lull in attendees for about 30 minutes over lunch time (at least I could grab a sandwich!), but the rest of the day was busy and passed very quickly. Although we were busy, there was also time to chat to people and the atmosphere was calm and chilled, which was lovely for both ladies attending and Donna and I as hosts.
Everyone was very complimentary about what we were doing, and what we both offered – both individually and together – some people paying more than the £5 we were charging which was just great.
We did ask people to complete a very short survey to see, if we put on such an event again, which days people would prefer and if they would come back. They would!
We raised £155 for the Hospice from the day, which Donna & I have agreed we will make up to £200 – giving half each from our respective businesses.
Many thanks to all who attended and supported the event. Also a big thank you to Simon and Katie, who assisted on the day and who’s help was invaluable.
