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Treetops Hospice are proud to announce that it has been highly commended in the Digital Team of The Year category at the HSJ Digital Awards 2025, recognising outstanding achievements in harnessing digital technology to improve healthcare outcomes across the UK. The HSJ Digital Awards, held 26 June at The ICC in Birmingham, celebrate the power of digital initiatives to transform patient care, improve access to services, and deliver more efficient, equitable healthcare. Treetops Hospice was recognised for the Derbyshire Alliance End of Life Care Toolkit, which the charity has worked on with NHS Birmingham and Solihull and Nottingham Integrated Care Board, which impressed the judges with its impactful innovation and scalability. Sharan Harris-Christensen (pictured), Manager of Virtual Education Centre in PEOLC & Communication Skills at Treetops Hospice, said: “We’re truly delighted that our collaboration has been recognised. In hospice care, turning policy into real impact depends on working together. Co-production, partnership, and shared learning are essential. “This approach empowers a constantly evolving workforce with education and embedding national frameworks, aiming to deliver the compassionate, high-quality care that people at the end of life and those important to them need.” The judging panel – composed of influential figures from across the health and digital landscape. The HSJ awards are seen as the Oscars of health care award achievement. Treetops Hospice are unique in that this work has been led by the team at the Treetops, a third sector organisation working in collaboration with the might of the NHS system. Treetops Hospice’s Director of Clinical Services, Philippa Shreeve, added: “Through the collaboration of our three partners we’ve developed a unified, adaptable platform that supports local development priorities and enhances the quality of end-of-life care. “This initiative reflects our shared commitment to compassionate, patient-centred support for individuals and families across our systems. With intuitive navigation and a wide range of accessible resources, the platform empowers both health and social care professionals, as well as the public, with the tools and guidance needed to deliver the best possible care. This wonderful resource has been several years in the making and I am truly delighted that the dedicated efforts of all have been recognised with this award.” This national recognition underscores Treetops Hospice’s role as a digital leader within the NHS and wider healthcare community, and highlights the importance of innovation, collaboration, and patient-centric design in driving forward digital transformation. The HSJ Digital Awards received a record number of entries this year, reflecting the scale and pace of digital innovation taking place across UK health and care settings.

We are saying a fond farewell to Jennie Regan, our Wellbeing at Home Healthcare Assistant. Jennie has been with Treetops for almost 31 years so we asked her to reflect back on her career.   You’ve had a lot of different roles here at Treetops. Tell us a bit about your positions here over the last 29 years. I started in September 1994. Originally, I was a registered nurse in the Hospice at Home team. The service had literally just started that year so there were only a handful of nurses back then. Treetops has grown from an acorn into an oak tree since then! A year later, a vacancy came up in the (former) Day Care service. I did that and continued to do Hospice at Home nursing at the weekends. That lasted for ten years but then Day Care started getting really busy. They needed me to do more hours, so I stopped my Hospice at Home role. Day Care was always full of laughter and in the very early days we even did canal trips on a special boat adapted for disabled people. The patients loved it and if we had room, we'd invite carers as well. It was fun but very hard work. When I first started at Treetops, they very kindly sent me to train for complementary therapy so I could offer this to patients in Day Care. When I left Day Care, I started to deliver a complementary therapy service in the community. It was invaluable to those who couldn’t access the hospice site here in Risley. When COVID came along and affected everything, we stopped the service in the community. I asked to be transferred to the Wellbeing at Home team as a Healthcare Assistant (HCA) to care for our end-of-life and palliative care patients. I feel I've gone full circle." What is it that you enjoy the most about your current role as a Wellbeing at Home nurse?To me, the Wellbeing at Home service isn't just for patients. It's wonderful to be involved with the whole family and carers too because they need so much support." You can see the difference you make. When you first go in, you've got a very tense and anxious atmosphere. But by the time you leave, they're your best friends. It's lovely. Usually, the carer goes out when I'm there, because that's the whole point. But there's still time to chat and catch up, and for me to introduce the other Treetops services. What is it about Treetops that makes it so special for you to have worked here for nearly 31 years? The staff and volunteers were, and are, amazing. Many have become lifelong friends. I have lots of fantastic memories. Lots of laughs, and sadness, of course, but I feel I’ve made a difference. What has always been really important for me, is when you first go to someone's house; it's that first impression. And when someone dies, it's the last impression. You want their death to be a good death, the best that it can be." How does it feel to be retiring after 30 years? I get mixed emotions but I'm excited because now I can do what I want, when I want. I can see more of my family. I've got a daughter in Australia so I can go there for longer. That's what you learn at a hospice, to make the most of what you've got. Tomorrow is not guaranteed. I've carried on here because I love what I do, so obviously I'm going to miss it, but I've got something to replace it.I will always support Treetops, and I will watch very closely its growth. It's just wonderful to see how it's developed and long may it continue. I wish Treetops all the best in the future.

We're pleased to announce that midlands-based restaurant group, Berkeley Inns, is the main sponsor of this year’s Moonlight Walk. The sponsored charity night walk on Friday 5 September raises thousands of pounds for the hospice. The newly refurbished Derby Market Hall is also showing its support as the Moonlight Walk host venue. Walkers will be able to enjoy modern street food and drinks, before setting off on the 5k or 10k route. The Moonlight Walk brings together hundreds of people walking together past several iconic Derby landmarks including Derby Cathedral. Here, walkers have the opportunity to light a candle and remember a loved one. [button url="https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/event/moonlight-walk/" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]Join us on the Moonlight Walk[/button] Incredibly proud to support Treetops Fran Thacker, Marketing Director from Berkeley Inns, said:We are incredibly proud to support Treetops Hospice as our chosen charity at Berkeley Inns. The work they do for individuals and families across our local community is nothing short of extraordinary. It’s a privilege to be involved in such a meaningful event. We are looking forward to being there on the night to cheer the walkers on as they light the way for such an important cause. Vic Rocca, Treetops Relationships Manager – Key Events said: “We’re really grateful for the support of both Berkeley Inns and the Derby Market Hall for this year’s event.Their generous support ensures that every step taken during the Moonlight Walk helps us continue to care for patients and families in the local community when they need it the most. More Moonlight Walk Sponsorship Opportunities Local businesses can put their branding in front of hundreds of people on the night by sponsoring kilometre points or cheer stations along the route, or entertainment. “It costs over £5.7million a year to provide our vital care in the local community and run the hospice,” continued Vic. “We receive some statutory funding, but this covers less than 18% of the costs for delivering several of our care services. The remaining £4.7million we must raise ourselves. “We can only achieve this with the support of local people and businesses getting behind events like the Moonlight Walk. If you’re a local business keen to show support, please get in touch to hear about other sponsorship opportunities. [button url="https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/event/moonlight-walk/" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]Join us on the Moonlight Walk[/button]

Treetops Hospice has teamed up with the Derby Book Festival to offer book-lovers a special deal in all 19 hospice charity shops across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. To coincide with the launch of their Summer Festival, from Friday 23 May to Saturday 7 June, avid readers can pick up two free fiction books when they spend £10 in any Treetops charity shop. This helps celebrate the 10th anniversary of the literary festival. [button url="https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/shops/" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]Find your nearest Treetops shop here[/button] Sian Hoyle, Derby Book Festival Director said: “The Festival brings together people of all ages and interests who love books and inspires new readers.  And what better place to pick up pre-loved books of all genres than in a Treetops charity shop!“It’s great to team up with a much-loved local charity that cares for hundreds of people in the local community.” James Thomas, Treetops Head of Retail said,“We’re really pleased to be able to support such a well-established and well-loved annual event, which brings hundreds of book-lovers to Derby. “We hope our shoppers will take advantage of the opportunity. They can select from a wide range of pre-loved fiction books for adults and children in all our charity shops. From thrillers and romance to teen and science fiction, there’s something for everyone.” Derby Book Festival will be held from 23 May to 1 June in venues across the city. The Festival  includes a wide programme of events for all the family at locations across the city.  

Derby city's most feel-good event of the year is making a comeback! The Treetops Moonlight Walk is returning on Friday 5 September. It’s set to be an unforgettable evening of walking, music, laughter, and making a real difference. [button url="https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/Moonlight2025?_gl=1*3xj0c3*_ga*MTkyODkxMzgxOC4xNzQ3MDQ0ODQw*_ga_K382PJE25S*czE3NDcwNDQ4MzkkbzEkZzEkdDE3NDcwNDQ5NTUkajEyJGwwJGgw" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]Join the Moonlight Walk![/button] 5k or 10k sponsored walk Starting and ending at the newly-refurbished Derby Market Hall, the 5k or 10k sponsored route takes walkers past iconic city centre landmarks including Derby Cathedral, where walkers have the opportunity to light a candle and remember a loved one. Walkers receive an official Moonlight Walk t-shirt, and a medal as they cross the finish line. There will also be entertainment, music and a wonderful atmosphere along the fully-marshalled route. Early Bird discount entry A special Moonlight Walk Early Bird discounted entry fee of £12 (RRP £18) is available until midnight on Monday, 2 June. Fundraising is vital to enable Treetops to continue to care for local patients as Vic Rocca, Relationships Manager – Key Events, explains: Fundraising is vital for hospice care “It costs over £5.7million a year to provide our vital care in the local community and run the hospice. We receive less than 18% funding from the Integrated Care Board (ICB) to deliver our care. So, the remaining £4.7million we must raise ourselves. “We can only achieve this with the support of local people getting behind events like the Moonlight Walk. “Everyone who takes part is encouraged to raise £48 in sponsorship. This will help us provide a patient at the very end of life with four hours of nursing care in their own home. “The Moonlight Walk is more than just a walk – it’s a night to celebrate, reflect, and come together as a community. Whether you’re in it for the cause, the good company, or the fun, the Moonlight Walk is a night to remember. So grab your family and friends, and sign up today!” [button url="https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/Moonlight2025?_gl=1*1fis18p*_ga*MTkyODkxMzgxOC4xNzQ3MDQ0ODQw*_ga_K382PJE25S*czE3NDcwNDQ4MzkkbzEkZzEkdDE3NDcwNDQ4NTkkajQwJGwwJGgw" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]Register now for the Moonlight Walk![/button]

From Monday 12 to Saturday 17 May, NHS and healthcare staff will receive a discount when shopping at Treetops charity shops across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. The 20% discount is our way of celebrating International Nurses Day (Monday, 12 May) and recognising the hard work of fellow healthcare professionals. The discount is available to all NHS and private healthcare workers. [button url="https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/shops/" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]Find your nearest Treetops charity shop[/button] Showing appreciation for those who care for patients James Thomas, Treetops Head of Retail, said:“We want to show our appreciation to all those who provide care and comfort to patients at some of life’s most difficult moments. “We’re incredibly proud of our own Hospice at Home nurses and the vital role they play in the local community. They care for hundreds of patients at the very end of life, in their own homes, 365 days of the year. This means people can choose to die with their loved ones around them, and in familiar surroundings. Treetops nurses provide vital care and support “Our nurses provide pain relief and help with a patient’s physical comfort. They also provide invaluable emotional support to family members and carers. They listen to concerns, provide reassurance, and can explain what’s happening to their loved one. “We can care for someone for a whole night or respond to an urgent request for assistance. Carers can get a good night’s sleep or a few hours’ rest during the day, knowing their loved one is being looked after. "Our nurses are a lifeline for families at a very difficult time.” The 20% discount is available on all products, including furniture items, in all 19 Treetops Hospice charity shops. Healthcare staff will need to show their ID at time of purchase, with a minimum spend of £10. [button url="https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/shops/" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]Our charity shop locations[/button]

Treetops is seeking adventurous businesses to tackle their unique team-building charity treks which combine breathtaking views with the opportunity to support a vital local cause. Every step taken raises essential funds to help care for local patients and families facing life-limiting illnesses. [button url="https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/get-involved/fundraising-with-treetops/events-and-challenges/" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]Trek for Treetops and support local patients[/button] Bespoke challenge events for businesses Relationship Manager for Challenge Events, Claire Mathias, creates bespoke challenge events for businesses, suited to their interests and team’s abilities. Last year, Claire supported HW Martin Waste Ltd on a trek through the Peak District, which raised over £8,000 for the hospice. Stacey Parry, Social Value Manager at HW Martin Waste Ltd, said of their team challenge: “We wanted to do a charity challenge as a team, but we’d never done anything like this before. “Claire was so helpful. She suggested that we work together to create our own bespoke trek, led by experienced guides. This meant we could create something seasoned and that inexperienced walkers could achieve.” Helping to care for local patients and families The money the team raised helped Treetops provide 74 local people at the very end of life with a night of nursing care. Hospice at Homes nurses are a lifeline for patients and families as Claire explained: “Many people want to die in their own homes with their loved ones by their side. We know it can be very challenging for families to care for someone at home, physically and emotionally. “Our nurses help provide patients with pain relief, symptom management and help patients feel as comfortable as possible as they reach the end of their life. It means families and carers can get a good night’s sleep or a few hours break during the day, knowing their loved one is being looked after. “It costs £108 for a patient to receive a night of Hospice at Home care. So, we’re so grateful to businesses, like HW Martin Waste Ltd, who raise money for Treetops by taking part in treks, bike rides, runs, and other challenges. Thanks to them we can continue to care in the local community.” [button url="https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/get-involved/fundraising-with-treetops/events-and-challenges/" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]Trek for Treetops and support local patients[/button]  

Julie Heath has announced her plans to retire in August 2025. Julie became Chief Executive of Treetops in 2018, after serving on the board of trustees for 22 years. She said: “During my time at Treetops, I’ve seen the hospice grow from an organisation that provided 20 hours of nursing care to patients each week, to one that provides over 22,000 hours every year. “We’ve developed vital services to meet the needs of local people, including establishing our counselling and emotional support service for children and adults, a service that is a recognised centre of excellence for bereavement support.It’s been a real privilege to lead a team of such dedicated, skilled, and compassionate staff and volunteers. Every day, I’ve seen the impact they make on the lives of patients and families. “Treetops has an exciting future ahead, and I look forward to seeing it continue to grow and lead the way in the hospice sector. “ Recruitment for Julie’s replacement is underway. Treetops Senior Leadership Team is committed to ensuring a smooth transition later this year.  

Treetops has awarded Long Eaton View Care Home with an End-of-Life Care Achievement Award, reflecting the best practice care and support staff are providing to their residents. The award for ‘Excellence in Care with Dignity’ reflects several months of care home staff training and mentorship provided by Treetops nurses, Faye Thrasivoulou and Laura Slack. [button url="https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/care/for-professionals/education-and-development/" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]Our education and training for professionals[/button] Faye, explained more about the award: “We provide specialist end-of-life training to residential care homes like Long Eaton View, across the whole of Erewash. It helps staff recognise the early signs and symptoms when a resident’s health starts to decline, and how to best care for them.“This award recognises how the team at Long Eaton View came up with an innovative way of communicating the level of care required for each of their residents. This is done discreetly by having small symbols on the resident’s bedroom door, which only the care home staff understand. This helps everyone to work together to support that person whilst maintaining privacy and dignity.” Staff training to support residents at the end of life Debbie Rhodes, Registered Manager at Long Eaton View, received the achievement award on behalf of her staff team. “We’re thrilled to get this award. It really reflects all the hard work and commitment of our staff to want to give the best quality end-of-life care to our residents. “When a resident’s health is deteriorating, everyone can be made aware in a discreet way, and we work together to best care and support them as they reach the very end of life.“The support from Treetops Hospice has been an absolute Godsend with Laura and Faye almost becoming part of our team, as though they’ve always been here.’’ The training includes how to have sensitive conversations with residents to identify and record their final wishes in advance. Faye and Laura also offer ongoing peer support. Since the project began, Treetops nurses have trained 444 staff from 16 care homes within Erewash. The two-year project is funded by The Sir Jules Thorn Charitable Trust. Faye Thrasivoulou and Laura Slack

Over 30 members of a Secondary Breast Cancer Support Group have enjoyed a ‘Look Good Feel Better’ Masterclass hosted by Treetops. The University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS support group meet bi-monthly in our Wellbeing Space. The group brings together women and men with a breast cancer diagnosis to meet others in a similar situation. They can seek advice from nurse specialists and psychologists, and enjoy wellbeing opportunities. On Tuesday 1 April, volunteers from the cancer charity ‘Look Good Feel Better’ provided a practical skincare and make-up masterclass and demonstration. Volunteers then gave advice on how attendees can use their own personal products in the best way. Enhancing life and wellbeing “Today has been wonderful,” said Dr. Kirsty Williams, who leads the support group.“Processing a cancer diagnosis and managing the physical and emotional side effects of cancer treatment can be challenging. So, what’s important to our group is for them to come here and have a relaxed and enjoyable time. “We focus on the ways we can enhance your life and wellbeing. It’s lovely to see everyone enjoy themselves.” “I’ve really enjoyed today,” said Marie, from the group. “I’ve learned a lot, and it’s made me feel a lot better too. "Having secondary breast cancer can make you feel quite alone but coming here I get to meet other people, and I don’t feel so lonely.” Treetops is a safe and welcoming space Ali Jordan, Treetops Wellbeing Manager, explained that the hospice ‘provides a safe and welcoming space’.“There is a common misconception that hospices are sombre or depressing places but that’s just not true! Treetops is a place of warmth and comfort and provides hope for hundreds of local people every year. “You’re greeted with a smile and support from the moment you step through our doors. Our Wellbeing Space looks out on 12.5 acres of beautiful grounds and gardens. It’s not at all what people imagine. “Hosting groups like the Secondary Breast Cancer Support Group helps us break down some of those barriers and encourage more people to come to us for care and support when they need it.” The ‘Look Good Feel Better’ charity aims to help people face cancer with confidence, to regain their sense of normality, to make friends and most of all to look good and feel better. To find out more about the Secondary Breast Cancer Support Group, call 01332 788798. [button url="https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/our-services/support-and-information/" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]Find out more about our care[/button]

Head to the annual Easter egg hunt at Swarkestone Nursery and Garden Centre to spot a stork sculpture created by our volunteer gardeners. The handcrafted wire sculpture includes a wire ‘cloth bundle’ dangling from its beak with a decorated egg laid inside. The stork is one of several egg-laying animals created from recycled materials by local charities and schools. The family-run garden centre store will hide sculptures around the premises for its alternative egg hunt. Thank you to our volunteer gardeners Nat Goodrich, Treetops Relationship Manager - Community Engagement, said the hospice was ‘thrilled to be involved with the egg hunt this year’. “We absolutely love the stork that our volunteer gardeners Steve Mills and David Driver have created. It’s very eye-catching and we’re sure it will be a big hit with children and families.“Getting involved with local community events like the egg hunt is a great way for us to raise awareness of the hospice and our care for local patients and families.” Stork to return to Treetops after Egg Hunt After the Easter egg hunt has ended, the stork will be returning to our 12.5-acre hospice grounds and gardens for everyone to enjoy. The egg hunt runs at Swarkestone Nursery and Garden Centre from Saturday, 5 April to Saturday, 19 April. Children collect brass rubbings on their way around to gain a chocolate treat. Afterwards they can vote for their favourite sculpture. The winning sculpture team will receive a fantastic prize of a gardening bundle worth £250. [button url="https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/get-involved/fundraising-with-treetops/fundraise/" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]Fundraise for your local hospice[/button]

Mother’s Day on Sunday 30 March can be an especially challenging time for those who have lost their mother or a child. Whether the death is recent or occurred many years ago, the days leading up to Mother’s Day - and the day itself - can be difficult when others are celebrating. Mother's Day can be challenging for those grieving Our Therapeutic Services Senior Counsellor, Julie Wright, explains that even the days leading up to Mother’s Day itself can be challenging: “Anniversaries and celebratory days can be hard for someone who’s experiencing grief. For example, there are cards and gifts in the shops and people are making plans to celebrate. “It is not always possible to avoid these things. But even just talking this through with a family member or friend can be helpful and can help alleviate those fears.  In fact, letting people know how you are feeling and what you might need can make a big difference to how you cope.” Acknowledge Mother’s Day and its impact on you If you know Mother’s Day is likely to be a difficult day, it’s important to do what feels right for you. You may want to be on your own, being quiet and reflective. Or you may prefer company and to share memories with family or friends. Others around you may also be grieving. It’s important to remember that everyone grieves differently and at their own pace. Talking to others might help you negotiate how you manage the day together, according to what you all need and how you all feel. For example, time to be together, and time for space apart, if you need it. Be kind to yourself Give yourself permission to put yourself first and be compassionate with your own feelings. It is okay to not be okay. Don’t expect too much of yourself. Feelings associated with your bereavement are a natural, normal part of the grieving process and individual to you. It’s okay to allow yourself to feel those emotions.   Remembering the person who has died Consider what you might like to do to either think about your mum, or celebrate your mum, on Mother’s Day. This might be connected to places that you’ve been or things you’ve done together. Find ways to connect with their memory that feel special to you There are many ways to remember your loved one. You could light a candle, plant something in the garden, play some music, write your feelings down in a card, or do something you used to enjoy doing together Online tributes can also be a helpful way of reflecting on how much your loved one meant to you. You could post a message or photo on social media, or share a video with family and friends “Everyone feels emotion and grief when they’ve experienced the loss of a loved one and that’s normal. However, Treetops is here if you are one of those people that feels like you need a bit of extra help. Please do contact us.” [button url="https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/our-services/therapeutic-services/counselling-and-emotional-support-service/counselling-and-emotional-support-service-for-adults-dealing-with-bereavement/" template="block" class="btn-block--red"]More information about our counselling support for adults and children[/button]