News release
10 December 2019

Halton Haven’s Christmas wish comes true with generous car donation

Halton Haven has had its Christmas wish come true with a generous donation of a much-needed car by merseyflow.

The Hospice, which provides specialist palliative care to people from Halton and surrounding areas who are living with life-limiting conditions, was faced with a cruel blow earlier this year when told that the repairs needed for the Hospice’s only car would cost more than it was worth. In response to the upsetting news, staff launched a fundraising campaign to replace the vehicle, which was getting closer to breaking down every day.

When long-term supporters of Halton Hospice, Mersey Gateway bridge tolling-operator merseyflow, heard the news, its team decided to help by donating £13,000 to purchase a new vehicle.

Chris Andrews, Senior Fundraising Manager at Halton Haven, said: “The Hospice car is essential for our nursing team to visit patients in the community, transport patients to and from the Hospice for treatment and pick up medication for our patients. We couldn’t be happier about the generous donation from merseyflow, meaning that we can finally put away our old Peugeot 308SW for good – and just in time for Christmas!”

The car, a Ford Tourneo Connect, was selected by Halton Haven staff for its low mileage, modern features and large size.

Kevin Matthews, Grants Trust and Gift Aid Manager at Halton Haven, said: “The car is extremely spacious and drives very smoothly - this will be such an improvement for our patients in terms of comfort, disability access and storage of walking aids. We cannot put into words the kind support and help merseyflow have shown to Halton Haven Hospice and those that use our services.”

Neil Conway, Chief Executive of merseyflow, said: “When we found out about the Hospice’s need for a new car, we knew we wanted to help. The Hospice provides a vital service for the community and we know how important it is for the Hospice’s staff to have access to a vehicle to continue providing the best possible care and support for its patients and their families.”