MP and Councillor Visit Willow Wood Hospice to Witness Its Vital Community Impact

Willow Wood Hospice has welcomed High Peak MP Jon Pearce and Councillor Damien Greenhalgh for their first official visit, giving them a first-hand look at the Hospice’s crucial work supporting patients and families in Tameside and Glossop.

Located in Ashton-under-Lyne, Willow Wood provides compassionate, specialist care to people with life-limiting illnesses — both at the hospice and in their own homes — and offers holistic support to their families and carers.

Jon and Damien with SMT and Chairman in gardens

A First-Hand Insight into Hospice Services

During their visit, the MP and councillor met with members of the Senior Management Team, including CEO Tracy Minshull and Chair of the Board of Trustees Timothy Jackson, and toured the facility with Clinical Director Nicola Cheetham. They also spent time talking to staff and volunteers who deliver and support services across the hospice and its eight charity shops.

At a round-table discussion, Tracy Minshull thanked the government for a recent £181,350 capital funding grant, earmarked for refurbishing the Inpatient Unit. However, she also outlined the ongoing challenge of securing long-term, sustainable funding, noting that it costs £3.6 million annually to operate the hospice — a growing concern as public donations are under increasing strain.

Jon and Damien on tour of Hospice with Nicola and Tim

Nicola Cheetham highlighted the scale and scope of services provided, explaining that 70% of patient care is delivered by the hospice’s Community Services team, helping individuals live as fully and comfortably as possible in their own homes.

Sam Duncan, Director of Fundraising and Communications, spoke about the hospice’s reliance on local generosity, its expanding fundraising events, and the recent move of the Glossop charity shop to a larger location. She also noted the hospice’s growing recognition in the retail sector through awards.

Gill Egerton, Head of HR and Workforce, praised the efforts of around 500 volunteers who support every aspect of Willow Wood’s work. She also highlighted successful collaborations with local colleges and employers, including the Youth Employment Support (YES) scheme for 16–24-year-olds.

Jon and Damien speaking with SMT and Chairman in Garden Room

Leaders Reflect on the Visit

Tracy Minshull, CEO, said:

“It was a pleasure to welcome Jon and Damien to Willow Wood and to show them the depth and breadth of what we do. Their engagement and understanding of our sector were clear, and we hope to have their continued support as we respond to growing demand and financial pressures.”

Jon Pearce MP described the visit as “moving and inspiring”:

“Willow Wood offers far more than medical care — it provides dignity, compassion, and vital support to families during the most difficult times. I was especially touched by their dementia outreach, which resonates with my own family’s experience. I’ll continue to push for greater recognition and support for hospices like this.”

Cllr Damien Greenhalgh added:

“This visit was truly heartwarming. The dedication of the volunteers shone through — whether in the beautifully kept gardens, the welcoming atmosphere, or the shops raising vital funds. Willow Wood is a local treasure and a testament to the power of community.”

To support or learn more about the hospice’s work, visit www.willowwood.org.uk