Community Fundraising Continues for Hospice Cuddle Beds

Community Fundraising Continues as Our Cuddle Beds Offer Comfort in Life’s Final Moments

For families at Saint Catherine’s Hospice, saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy. But the introduction of cuddle beds has offered comfort, closeness, and precious final moments together. These have all been supported by the generosity of the local community.

The hospice currently has two cuddle beds which are specially designed clinical beds that allow patients and their loved ones to rest together comfortably. The beds have quickly become an emotional and practical lifeline for families.

Julie Veitch experienced the impact of a cuddle bed first-hand when her husband, John, was cared for at Saint Catherine’s before he passed away earlier this year.

“We only had three nights in the bed, but to be able to just be next to John was amazing,” Julie said. “The first night we laid and listened to music from John’s playlist and there were so many memories that we could share together. The third night I was there next to him cuddling him when he passed away. Knowing I was holding him, and he wasn’t on his own was so comforting. I cannot thank the staff enough for the way they looked after John and myself. They are like family.”

 

The beds have already captured the hearts of the local community. Last year, the Saint Catherine’s Driffield Support Group set out to raise £15,000 to fund the second cuddle bed for the hospice. Over the course of the year, the appeal was supported by a wide range of community events and donations from local organisations.

The fundraising target was reached following a festive community evening hosted by Alec W G Hall, where the final £740 was raised through carol singing, refreshments and a raffle. The event brought together volunteers, local businesses and community figures, reflecting the strong local support behind the appeal.

Gill Ullyott, from the Driffield Support Group, said the generosity of the community had exceeded expectations.

“When we started the Cuddle Bed Appeal, we really thought it would be an uphill struggle, but the generosity of the people of Driffield and the surrounding villages has been incredible. They have just got behind everything we have done. The work now starts to raise enough for the second cuddle bed, which will be so invaluable for Saint Catherine’s.”

This week, Saint Catherine’s invited members of the Driffield Support Group to the hospice, giving them the opportunity to see first-hand where their fundraising efforts have made a difference, including a tour of the Castle Suite In-Patient Unit, where they were shown one of the hospice’s cuddle beds.

Ms Ullyott said the visit brought home the impact of their efforts.

“It was wonderful to be given the opportunity to tour the unit and see the cuddle bed in situ,” she said. “The experience was both thought-provoking and deeply reassuring, as it brought to life how our fundraising is being used in such a meaningful way. Knowing that our support will help families spend precious time closer to their loved ones truly underlines the difference it makes.”

 

Encouraged by the response to their fundraising so far, the group is now raising funds for a third cuddle bed this year. Their next major event will be Posh Frocks & Flat Caps – a Charity Dinner, featuring Bangers and Cash star Derek Mathewson.

The event will take place on Friday 24th April 2026 at The Rix Pavilion, Driffield, with doors opening at 6pm for a 6.30pm sit-down, concluding at 10.30pm.

Tickets can be purchased from Chris by either calling 07885514336 or emailing chrismorris261048@gmail.com

Lyn Morris, a member of the Driffield Support Group, says her husband Chris Morris has been the driving force behind the event, bringing his experience as a former Driffield Lion and wide local connections to support the cause.

Louise Gravestock, fundraiser at Saint Catherine’s, said:

“Our hope is that, with continued fundraising, more cuddle beds can be added to ensure that every patient and their loved ones have the opportunity to share those vital final moments together. For families like Julie and John, the beds have been more than just furniture — they’ve been a source of comfort, dignity, and connection in life’s most emotional moments.”