Why it matters: The well serves as a lasting beacon of hope, where visitors can make donations and wishes.
The details: Suffolk New College construction staff and students built the wishing well at the Suffolk Show before transporting it to the Foxhall Road hospice this week.
The project combined different construction trades, with carpenters building the roof and bricklayers constructing the well itself.
The carpentry department also raised £1,511.46 by selling handmade bird boxes and bug houses at the show.
The bigger picture: This marks the third consecutive year the college has fundraised for St Elizabeth Hospice at the Suffolk Show. Carpentry and joinery lecturer Darren Chittock said: "In that time, we have raised over £3,000 for the charity. I'm really proud. It's a big effort from the staff and students."
The personal connection: Mark Crisp, head of construction at Suffolk New College, said his mother was cared for by the hospice two years ago. "My mum was looked after here and passed away peacefully. The staff are – and were – absolutely incredible. The job they do is phenomenal. I can't thank them enough," he said.
Martin Cribb, a brickwork instructor whose father was supported by the hospice 10 years ago, added: "The care for my dad was fantastic. The students [in terms of building the well] have been amazing."
What they're saying: Ned Coles, 18, from Stowmarket, studying level two bricklaying whilst working for Greig and Mills Brickwork, said: "It's great to have the opportunity to do something like this. It's a lasting memento from the college that I have worked on, that will be here for years to come. It's nice to give something back."
Liam Airey, 17, from Ipswich, added: "We beat last year's total. Some of my family work for the hospice, so it's nice to know that we are helping them and others."
Chloe Lock, a community fundraiser at St Elizabeth Hospice, said: "I think this is really special for those at the hospice – both patients, staff and visitors. It's a lovely, striking piece. Suffolk New College have been fantastic."
The bottom line: Personal experiences of hospice care have motivated college staff and students to create a permanent tribute that will serve the hospice, its patients and their families for years to come, while raising funds to support their vital work.
