When temperatures soared in June, Saint Francis Hospice needed scrubs to not only keep staff and patients safe throughout the pandemic, but also the nurses cool.

Two of the Hospice’s most ardent supporters, Jim and Anne Bender, leaped into action. As commercial denim jean manufacturers and over 45 years’ experience in the textile industry, the couple called upon their partners and sourced local factories and quality fabrics.

‘We’d been working non-stop for months and had just delivered over 175,000 gowns and scrub sets to the NHS, but the chance to help Saint Francis Hospice was an easy decision for us all,’ Anne revealed. 

Anne and Jim’s connection with the Hospice began in 2002. Anne started as a volunteer and then became a nurse on the ward and for the Hospice at Home service. After Anne retired, the couple became founding members of the Patrons Circle, a group of local philanthropists who have come together to support the services the Hospice provides.

‘We cannot thank Anne, Jim, and her partners enough for coming to our aid,’ said Tes Smith, Saint Francis Hospice’s Director of Quality and Care. ‘The generosity and speed of their work has been incredible. Many thanks to everyone who helped.’ 

The scrubs are water-resistant, antiviral, and cool to wear. The Domestic team are now proudly donning sky blue, and the nurses royal blue.

You can also help the Hospice’s nurses as they work tirelessly to halt the spread of COVID-19 by supporting the Urgent Appeal. You can find out how you can make a difference here.