Celebrating another year of impact

Hearts Together, the Plymouth-based charity providing affordable accommodation and support for patients, families and carers attending Derriford Hospital, has celebrated an incredible year of impact at its annual Thank You Day.

The event brought together donors, volunteers, fundraisers and corporate supporters to recognise their vital role in helping the charity deliver over 8,000 nights of accommodation during the past year.

Speaking on a video played at the event and available to re-watch, Chair of Trustees Nigel Roy reflected on the difference Hearts Together continues to make:

This past year, more than 1,000 people have stayed with us – patients travelling to Plymouth for appointments and treatment, and the loved ones who stand beside them. Together, they saved almost £390,000 compared to the cost of even the cheapest hotel. But the real impact isn’t in the numbers – it’s in the moments of comfort, care and kindness that our guests experience thanks to our incredible team and supporters.

Over the last 12 months, Hearts Together has also provided over 5,400 free breakfasts, £42,000 of free parking, and more than 560 hours of counselling and welfare support to guests navigating challenging hospital journeys. The charity’s 32 volunteers gave 950 hours of their time, while fundraisers and corporate partners helped raise more than £85,000 through community events, challenges and sponsorships.

Adding a personal touch to the event, guest speakers Josh Chauhan, a Partner at Wolferstans Solicitors and Trustee for the charity, and Diana Manning, Hearts Together’s Community Champion, each spoke on the theme “What Hearts Together Means to Me.” Their heartfelt reflections offered a moving insight into how the charity touches lives – both for those who stay and those who serve.

Throughout the afternoon, a number of awards were presented to celebrate the incredible individuals and organisations who have gone above and beyond in support of Hearts Together. Among the recipients were two students from the Brook Green Centre for Learning, who were jointly named Young Volunteers of the Year in recognition of their enthusiasm, kindness, and commitment to helping guests feel welcome at the Hearts Together Hospital Hotel. Their award, along with others given on the day, highlighted the power of community and the difference that people of all ages can make when they give their time to help others.

Looking ahead, Nigel shared exciting plans for the charity’s 25th anniversary year in 2026, which will include new fundraising events, volunteering opportunities and the launch of a new merchandise range. He also spoke about the charity’s ambitious Big Build Project, which will expand the current Hospital Hotel to meet growing demand.

We’re taking brave, exciting steps into the future. Our vision is that no one travelling to Plymouth for hospital care will ever have to wonder where they’ll stay. Together, we’re building a future where compassion and community are always at the heart of healthcare.

Hearts Together would like to thank everyone who continues to support its work, ensuring no one faces their hospital journey alone.