Publish date: 15 April 2025
West Yorkshire-based Overgate Hospice is bringing specialist care into the heart of communities across Calderdale – thanks to funding from West Yorkshire and Harrogate Cancer Alliance.
The community hospice hubs provide services such as therapeutic activities, educational talks and social interaction. By taking them to the areas where patients are, they are addressing barriers like transportation and emotional distress.
The hubs were launched after Overgate Hospice was successful in bidding for Innovation competition funding from the Cancer Alliance.
The annual competition, run in collaboration with the Yorkshire and Humber Innovation Network, funds innovative projects that promote early cancer diagnosis and better care for patients in the region.
The hubs, located in Upper Valley, Lower Valley, Calder and Ryburn, North Halifax, Central Halifax and Todmorden, offer activities such as Thai Chi, gardening, singing for wellbeing and laughter therapy, as well as signposting to other services.
Feedback has been positive with one patient saying: “The hub has been a lifeline for me. I’ve made a few friends and feel less alone,” whilst another commented: “The hub has helped me access other services I didn’t even know existed.”
Laura Golding, Director of Income Generation at Overgate Hospice, which provides expert care, support, advice and information for patients and their families, carers and loved ones, said:
“The evaluation of the Community Hospice Hub Project demonstrates its significant impact on improving access to care and reducing isolation for patients and carers. Over the project period, the hubs achieved 743 attendances, engaging 58 new patients and 63 new carers across six locations in Calderdale.
“Feedback from attendees highlighted increased accessibility, reduced emotional distress and enhanced social connectedness. Many patients appreciated the welcoming, non-clinical environment and the opportunity to meet others in similar situations.
“Carers valued the tailored support and access to signposting for additional services, such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy and counselling.
“We are extremely grateful to the Cancer Alliance for the funding which has made all this possible.”
Helen Ryan, Programme Manager for Innovation and New Models of Care
at West Yorkshire and Harrogate Cancer Alliance, said: “This project is a terrific example of what the innovation funding is all about.
“It not only supports patients and carers but also strengthens community partnerships and referral pathways, as well as enhancing access to hospice care and supporting underserved populations.”
