How your used stamps help us to raise funds

As we mark our 40th anniversary, let’s take a moment to celebrate one of the very special ways in which people have raised funds for us over the years.

Did you know that our volunteers have been collecting and selling used stamps since before the Hospice opened its doors, raising an estimated £100,000. Stamps and albums that have been donated to us, are resold to raise vital funds to support patient care. Despite all the modern ways of communicating, many people still love to send and receive a letter or a card in the mail.

We interviewed Ken, a long-standing volunteer who has served the Hospice for 42 years as a philatelic specialist. Given his extensive knowledge, he has been an invaluable source of wisdom and expertise. He recently donated the incredible amount of £3,150 to the Hospice, all from the sale of stamps collected over the past four months.

He says: “The Hospice collects commemorative stamps, albums, sets and worldwide collections to resell on eBay, either individually or in job lots. If you happen to be clearing out a house and there’s a stamp collection that you would like to donate, please contact us and we will be happy to take a look. Some of the stamps may be very valuable and it could mean a great deal of money for Willen Hospice.

“Next time you receive a card or letter in the post, please ‘Think Willen’. All stamps are welcome, whether they are used or unused. Carefully tear off the area holding the stamp, and keep it aside for us. Once you have collected a batch, post them to: eBay Department, Willen Hospice Clearance Outlet, 1 Grafton Gate East, Milton Keynes, MK9 1A. We could even collect it if you are local”.

Willen Hospice would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has diligently saved up their stamps over the years, and to all the volunteers who have spent countless hours sifting carefully through the albums and collections to get them ready for resale.

Without you, the community, this vital source of fundraising would not be possible.