This page provides answers to frequently asked questions about the proposed merger to help keep you informed as plans develop.
Why are you exploring a merger?
The two charities are exploring a merger to ensure their charitable support is aligned with the way NHS services in Bristol and Weston may be organised in future. By working more closely together, we believe we could deliver even greater impact for patients, families and NHS staff across the region, while continuing to respect supporter wishes and local priorities.
Will the merger definitely go ahead?
No. At this stage, the charities are exploring the potential for a merger, but no final decision has been made. Any merger would be subject to formal approvals by the relevant charity and NHS boards. We will keep supporters, partners and colleagues informed as the process progresses.
How is this linked to the proposed merger of University Hospitals of Bristol & Weston (UHBW) and North Bristol NHS Trust (NBT)?
The charities’ discussions are linked to the proposed merger of the NHS Trusts in Bristol and Weston. As the NHS organisations explore coming together, it is important that their charitable support is aligned in a way that best serves patients, staff and supporters. However, the charity merger is a separate decision and will follow its own governance process.
Can I still support Southmead/Cossham/BCE/my chosen hospital?
Yes. Supporters will continue to be able to support specific hospitals, services or causes they care about. This will not change as a result of exploring a merger. As ever, where possible, we’d encourage you to consider an unrestricted donation, helping us direct support to where it is needed most.
I’ve already donated/pledged a legacy to Southmead Hospital Charity. Will my donation still support the hospital I chose?
Yes. We want to support donor wishes as far as possible and exploring a merger will not change that. All existing legacies, donations and gifts will continue to be managed in line with donor wishes.
I recently made a donation to Southmead Hospital Charity’s Walkerbot appeal. What’s happening now?
All existing donations to the Walkerbot appeal will be used to support this appeal and exploring a merger will not change that. The appeal is still underway with exciting announcements to follow soon!
What will change if the merger is approved?
It is too early to say what specific changes might occur. If a merger is approved, we will provide clear information about what it means for supporters, including what will change and what will not. We are working in collaboration to explore all the options and potential impact, and will share updates when we have them.
When will a final decision be made?
The timing of decisions will depend on formal governance processes. A decision will be released by us and Bristol & Weston Hospitals Charity in May 2026. This will then be subject to final approval as part of the wider decisions about the Trust merger at the end of June by the Department of Health and Social Care.
We are committed to keeping supporters informed at key milestones.
Will Southmead Hospital Charity staff still be available to support fundraisers, staff and fundholders?
Yes. There is no change to how you contact the Southmead Hospital Charity team. Our staff remain here to support NBT colleagues, fundholders, donors and fundraisers as usual. Any future changes to organisational structure would be communicated well in advance.
I am a fund-holder at NBT – what does this mean for my charitable fund?
All existing funds and approvals remain unchanged. You can continue to apply for funds using the same process, and all current projects are fully supported. Any future changes to how funds are managed would be communicated well in advance.
Will NBT fundraising events and appeals still happen?
Yes. All charity-led fundraising events, appeals and campaigns will continue as planned. Supporters will still be able to fundraise for the NBT services and sites that matter most to them.
What happens to the gift in my Will left to Southmead Hospital Charity?
All legacy gifts already pledged or written into Wills for Southmead Hospital Charity will be honoured exactly as the donor intended. Legacies will continue to be restricted to the areas of NBT specified in the Will.
Will Southmead Hospital Charity still exist?
At this stage, no final decision has been made. One possible outcome is that SHC could transfer into Bristol & Weston Hospitals Charity if this is found to be in the best interests of beneficiaries. If that happens, we would ensure continuity of support for patients, families and staff at Southmead, with all restricted funds and donor intentions fully honoured.
How can I ask questions or share concerns?
You can contact the SHC team at any time. We welcome questions from supporters, NBT colleagues, fundholders and partners, and will ensure your feedback is heard and considered as the exploration continues.
