Compassionate Inverclyde becomes independent charity

An Inverclyde community initiative has now become a charity.

Compassionate Inverclyde, which was established under Ardgowan Hospice in 2017, is aimed at improving the quality of life for people facing life-limiting illnesses and their families in the area.

The decision to allow the project to become a charity means that it is no longer part of the hospice.

Graham Gardiner, chief executive officer of Ardgowan Hospice, said: "I'm pleased that Ardgowan Hospice was at the heart of Compassionate Inverclyde's beginnings.

“That this special project has grown to need to become a charity in its own right is a testament to the work of Alison, Doris, and the team of volunteers who have achieved so much.

“We wish Compassionate Inverclyde every success in this new guise and look forward to continuing to find ways to work in partnership for many years to come."

Ardgowan Hospice was founded in 1981, providing palliative care and specialised support for seriously ill individuals.

Seeing the need to go beyond conventional medical settings, the hospice began Compassionate Inverclyde, led and supported by Alison Bunce and Doris Woods.

The programme was launched on March 1, 2017, and aimed to build a more compassionate, connected community where no one faces sickness or loss alone.