The shared vision of the partnership was that everyone should be able to receive the best possible care, in a place of their choice, at the end of their lives; with their families supported every step of the way. Thanks to the fundraising efforts of Morrisons colleagues, customers and suppliers, this vision has become a reality for thousands of people across the UK.

At Morrisons Ilkeston, funds have been raised by activities including the Ilkeston Lions Carnival, raffles, tombolas, bag packs, the Morrisons Communi-Tea Party and the ‘Morrisons to the Moon’ and ‘Road to Rio’ challenges.

Community Champions Tracy Davidson and Fay Stainsby said: “Raising £7.2 million in just three years is a fantastic achievement and at Ilkeston store we really showed our dedication to the cause by raising over £6,000 for Sue Ryder. I’d like to thank my colleagues for all their efforts, as well as our customers who supported the partnership. We are incredibly proud to have been involved in a partnership that is making such a lasting difference to thousands of families across the UK.”

Across the country, Sue Ryder has provided over 250,000 extra hours of incredible care a year to patients and families thanks to the Raise a Smile partnership; and increased our team of healthcare professionals by more than 100. The partnership has funded new Hospice at Home services, which involves taking the expert care offered within Sue Ryder hospices into people’s own homes, 24 hours a day. Additional community nurse specialists offer practical and emotional support to patients and families in their own homes, while Sue Ryder’s therapy, bereavement support and social work teams have also increased, bringing the charity’s care to thousands more families. Befriending services have been set up, ensuring nobody is left to face illness all alone, while Sue Ryder’s Online Community (www.sueryder.org/support) is also there to provide support and advice for people coping with loss 24 hours a day.