A book has been written to celebrate the 750th anniversary of a charity which was set up by the Bishop of Durham.
The Hospital of God (pictured above) at the village of Greatham, near Hartlepool, has a long and fascinating history. Founded in 1273 to care for the poor and the elderly, it has survived unprecedented changes in society over the centuries.
Today, it provides care, support and housing services, particularly for older people and those living with dementia.
Philippa S
inclair, a trustee who has served as the Bishop’s nominee on the board of the organisation since 2009, has penned Greatham Hospital – A brief history of the charity as it celebrates 750 years of offering care.
Philippa (pictured left), a retired social worker, said it has been a huge privilege to serve such a valuable and effective charity.
She added: “It is a wonderful organisation which has Christian values at the base of it. This anniversary is a remarkable achievement and it really is a testament to its resilience throughout the centuries.
“From significant but modest beginnings, the charity has extended its range of services to fit modern needs. At any one time, it is serving more than 500 people in varying degrees of involvement, and this number is ever increasing.”
In his foreword to the book, the Bishop of Durham, the Rt Revd Paul Butler (pictured below right) said: “This short history not only helpfully tells us the story of this remarkable place but also inspires us to share today in caring for those in need. Seven hundred and fifty years of charitable service is an astoundingly long history. It is a story of caring for those in need rooted in Christian faith.”
The Hospital of God was established by Robert de Stichell, who was then the Bishop of Durham, in 1273. It was refounded by King James I in 1610, and survived numerous challenges leading up to the modern day, including two world wars and the coronavirus pandemic.
The charity is now
governed by a board of trustees and still owns property and land in the village of Greatham and beyond. It has a residential care home, day centres at Hartlepool and Horden, and almshouses for older people.
Other services include opportunities for those suffering from dementia or social isolation to take part in community pastimes, and to be as independent as possible. The charity also provides a dementia advisory service and family support workers for carers.
The Hospital of God, which serves those of all faiths and none, also gives grants to voluntary organisations. It continues to develop its facilities and services and adapt to the times which will ensure that this historic organisation is able to continue its work in the future.
For information on how to purchase Philippa’s book, visit https://hospitalofgod.org.uk/article/-750-years
All proceeds will go to the charity.