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Teesside Hospice’s Tree of Life was established in 1996 and is Middlesbrough’s original giving tree. Every year throughout the Christmas period the tree stands proudly in The Mall Middlesbrough and allows people to remember loved ones by placing a dedication on the tree.

The annual appeal makes a significant contribution towards the cost of continuing specialist palliative care, free of charge in the local community.

Maureen Thompson was appointed as the charity's Chief Executive in 2004 but has been working at Teesside Hospice since May 2002.

She explains how the hospice has a real connection and bond with Teesside people.

The back of Teesside Hospice

"I was aware of Teesside Hospice long before I joined the organisation.Ìý My background is in nursing and senior healthcare management. Six years ago I decided I needed a change in career and noticed an advert for the position of General Manager at Teesside Hospice.

"Our Hospice is a very special place, all of our staff and volunteers are committed to delivering the very best specialist palliative care services they can, which is rewarding."

Working in an environment where everyone contributes in such positive ways can be very uplifting.Ìý

Uplifting and positive

She says, "The really fulfilling part of this role is meeting up with so many different supporters. I get tremendous satisfaction from seeing first-hand how the hospice makes a difference to our patients and guests.Ìý

"My day could have me thanking a group of ladies for participating in our ‘Starlight Stroll’ or visiting one of our shops and meeting customers.

"I consider myself very lucky to have such a rewarding job."

Debbie Coulson is another member of the Teesside Hospice team and is responsible for increasing awareness of the Hospice in the local area.Ìý

Debbie Coulson

After working in London within the marketing industry, Debbie relocated back to the North East in 2003 and took up the position of Marketing Manager at the hospice.

Debbie explains what she enjoys about working at the hospice: “The people definitely. The Hospice is such a special place and it really is because of the unique team of staff and volunteers and the chemistry they have with guests.

"I feel privileged and proud to be part of the team that delivers specialist palliative care to local people.�

Participate and celebrate

If you would like to participate and celebrate the life and love of someone special, please visit Teesside Hospice’s Tree of Life at The Mall Middlesbrough between the 24th November and 13th December.

You can be part of the blessing of the tree on Sunday 14th December for the ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Tees' annual ‘Carols for Christmas’ event at Middlesbrough Town Hall.

If you would like to attend the event tickets cost £2 and are available now from -

³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Tees
Newport Road
Middlesbrough

Tel: 01642 225211
Open: Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm

Town Hall
Box Office
Middlesbrough

Teesside Hospice shop
Linthorpe Road
Middlesbrough