This page provides answers to frequently asked questions about the planned merger to help keep you informed as plans develop.
Why are you planning to merge with Bristol & Weston Hospitals Charity?
Following approval by both charity Boards and the NHS Trusts we support, we are planning to bring the two charities together to align with the newly merged Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, subject to final approval from the Department of Health and Social Care.
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?
The merger has been approved by both charity Boards and the Trusts we support, but it is still subject to final approval of the NHS Trust merger by the Department of Health and Social Care. We will continue to 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 charity merger is directly linked to the merger of the NHS Trusts. As the new merged NHS trust is formed, it is important that there is a single, strong charity partner to support patients, staff and services across all sites.
While closely linked, the charity merger remains a separate legal process and must meet its own governance and regulatory requirements.
Can I still support Southmead/BRI/BRHC/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 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. Will my donation still support the hospital I chose?
Yes. We want to support donor wishes as far as possible and this will not change that. All existing legacies, donations and gifts will remain legally protected and managed exactly as written, with donor wishes honoured.
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 remain legally protected and managed exactly as written, with donor wishes always honoured.
I make a regular donation (e.g. Direct Debit). Will this be affected by the merger?
Your regular gift will continue exactly as it does now, supporting the hospitals and services you have chosen. If anything changes in the future, we will be in touch so your regular giving continues just as you intend.
What will change if the merger is approved?
Subject to final approvals, Southmead Hospital Charity will merge with Bristol & Weston Hospitals Charity to form a single charity supporting the new Bristol NHS Foundation Trust.
This is about building on the strengths of both organisations and ensuring continued charitable support for hospitals, patients and staff across North Bristol, Bristol and Weston.
When will the merger happen?
The merger is expected to take place alongside the formation of the new Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, subject to final approval from the Department of Health and Social Care in late June 2026.
I am a fund-holder at NBT – what does this mean for my charitable fund?
All charitable funds you oversee will continue to support their intended purposes. Should there be any changes to the charity’s application process and funding model in the future, we will communicate these to you as early as possible.
Will Southmead Hospital Charity fundraising events and appeals still happen?
Yes. All charity-led fundraising events, appeals and campaigns leading up to July 2026 will continue as planned. The Bristol to Bath Trail Escape in September will also go ahead.
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.
What will happen to my data when the charities merge?
Bristol & Weston Hospitals Charity will become the new data controller for supporter information currently held by Southmead Hospital Charity*. The transfer of data will take place in late June 2026.
What this means for you:
You can read our privacy notice here:
www.southmeadhospitalcharity.org.uk/privacy-policy/
And you can read BWHC’s privacy notice here: www.bwhospitalscharity.org.uk/privacy-policy
