The Cheltenham office of Bishop Fleming has exceeded its target of raising £7,500 for a local hospice.

The audit, accounting, tax and advisory firm has raised nearly £12,000 for Longfield Community Hospice, as part of the firm's 1% for Communities initiative.

Through the initiative, which pledges to give back the equivalent of 1% of the firm's turnover through community-focused volunteering, fundraising and related activities, Bishop Fleming partnered with the Gloucestershire charity to organise joint fundraising activities throughout the year.

Longfield Community Hospice provides free care for adults in Gloucestershire with a life-limiting illness and support for their loved ones and carers.

In addition to volunteering at the charity, Bishop Fleming's fundraising initiatives included a skydive, a netball tournament, the Ale Amble walk in Stroud and a quiz night. The funds raised will directly support Longfield Community Hospice's efforts to make a real difference to someone living with a life-limiting illness.

William Robinson, interim CEO of Longfield Community Hospice, said: "A massive thank you to all at Bishop Fleming Cheltenham for raising an incredible amount of money for us in the last year. As an example of the difference these funds could make, they could go towards 193 hours of bereavement counselling or 176 hours of hospice at home care.

"It has been amazing to work with a company who understand social value and the importance of engaging not just in fundraising for a good local cause, but in conversations about hospice care."

Launched in July 2024, the 1% for Communities commitment aims to support local communities, develop employee engagement and contribute to meaningful causes.

In total, Bishop Fleming contributed 1,889 volunteer hours and raised over £70,000 in funds across its offices in the South West and Midlands, reaching a total community contribution of £514,325 through fundraising, volunteering and support for charitable causes.

David Butler, partner at Bishop Fleming, said: "We're incredibly proud to support the vital work of Longfield Community Hospice, whose compassionate team provides care, comfort and support to patients and their loved ones during the most difficult times.

"It's been a real privilege to work alongside such a dedicated organisation, and we're thrilled to have raised a significant amount to help them continue their essential services in our local community."

Looking ahead, the 1% for Communities programme has an ambitious new fundraising target of £100,000 across Bishop Fleming's offices. The Cheltenham branch will partner with Cheltenham & Gloucester Hospitals Charity for the next year of the initiative.