The Friends of Stratford Hospital are delighted to announce that Emma Holman-West, CEO Alscot Estate, has taken on the role of Patron of the long-standing local charity.
The formation of The Friends of Stratford Hospital, a local charity that aims to provide equipment, services and comforts to the patients and staff of Stratford Hospital, dates back to 1948 when the old hospital was replaced with new buildings after the introduction of the National Health Service. Since then, the charity has provided support and funding for vital equipment and facilities, helping to enhance the experience of everyone who uses the hospital.
Emma first worked with the Friends back in 2016, when the charity launched a major fundraising campaign to help create the hospital’s new state of the art cancer and ophthalmology wards. Emma was spurred on by the shocking statistics that showed, at the time, 30 per cent fewer people in the district refused chemotherapy compared to nearby Warwick Hospital due to the distance they had to travel, often daily. As well as fundraising, Emma’s role was to lead on the internal design ensuring it delivered the best possible experience for those spending some considerable time on the wards, during what can be very difficult times for the patients and their families. Alscot hosted several fundraising events including a clay pigeon shoot, open garden, and concert by The Orchestra of The Swan.
The hospital was formally opened by Princess Anne and in August 2017 the £22million hospital building, offering a cancer unit, ophthalmology unit and community wellbeing hub across three floors, welcomed its first patients. Since then, Emma has remained a strong supporter of the hospital and its community. Speaking about her new role, Emma said: “I’m honoured to become Patron of Friends of Stratford Hospital. The charity has been doing incredible work for almost 100 years, quietly supporting patients and staff in ways that make a real difference. I’m keen to help raise the profile of the Friends so that more local people know about the amazing volunteers and the vital work they do. Together, I believe we can increase awareness, support, and fundraising — and explore new opportunities for the future.”
Alongside her charitable commitments, Emma owns and runs the Alscot Estate, a 4,000-acre estate which has been under her leadership for more than 20 years. The Estate’s main business is property, and Emma also operates her own farming enterprise. No stranger to juggling challenges and innovation, she has been recognised for her outstanding achievements in rural enterprise and sustainability. In 2008, Emma was awarded the prestigious Bledisloe Gold Medal for Landowners by the Royal Agricultural Society of England, and more recently, she received an award for Best Green Business from the Stratford Herald for her work in sustainable farming and land management.
Chair of Friends of Stratford Hospital, Ursula Russell, welcomed Emma’s appointment, saying:
“We’re thrilled that Emma is joining us as Patron. Her enthusiasm, experience, and strong community ties will help us continue to grow and support the hospital in every way we can.”
Emma added: “I’d love to see more people and local businesses join us in supporting Stratford Hospital. Together we can make a lasting difference for everyone who depends on its care.”
Anyone wishing to support or learn more about the charity can visit https://www.friendsofstratfordhospital.org/ https://donate.justgiving.com/charity/friendsofstratfordhospital/donation-amount or follow Friends of Stratford Hospital on Instagram.