More than £78,000 has been left by hospital patients in wills over the last 12 months. 

The money has gone to the North West [NW] Anglia Hospitals’ Charity, which supports the work of the NW Anglia NHS Foundation Trust. 

This includes efforts to enhance the patient and visitor experience and supporting research programmes. 

Philip Fearn, charity project manager for the NW Anglia Hospitals’ Charity, said: “We are grateful for all the donations we receive from patients and their families.  

“And, of course, to those who leave a legacy to the Hospitals’ Charity in their will, which often comes as a result of having received care at one of our hospitals.” 

Figures from NHS Charities Together, which works with more than 230 NHS charities across the UK, found that more than £4 million in legacy income is expected per year by 2026. 

But while organisations, charities and welfare groups benefit from legacies, research has found that awareness of giving to an NHS charity remains low. 

In the last year, some legacy donations have benefitted Hinchingbrooke Hospital’s cancer support services and Peterborough City Hospital’s stroke ward. 

And as this year marks 75 years of the NHS, Mr Fearn feels it is a relevant time to acknowledge those who have donated to the Charity. 

“It is quite timely to acknowledge all those who donate or leave a legacy in appreciation of the work it does, as well as raising awareness locally of how people can help,” he added. 

“Leaving a legacy is not as difficult as some may think; patients and their families can be assured that every penny makes a difference.” 

Hinchingbrooke Hospital and Peterborough City Hospital are both part of the NW Anglia NHS Foundation Trust. 

For more information on how to leave a legacy to the NW Anglia Hospitals’ Charity, visit: https://www.nwangliaft.nhs.uk/north-west-anglia-hospitals-charity/how-you-can-help/.