GENEROUS staff at Winterthur Life UK are set to channel all their fundraising efforts into supporting a north Hampshire children's hospice.

Bosses at the Basingstoke-headquartered pension company asked staff to vote for a local cause which they would then support throughout 2006 as part of the company's "Make a Difference" initiative.

Mike Kellard, the company's chief executive officer, has now confirmed to staff in two special presentations at its Winterthur Way and Dextra Court offices that Naomi House is the company's selected charity beneficiary.

The company has set a fundraising target of £40,000, which its 800-strong workforce hopes to achieve through a series of fun events and initiatives.

Mr Kellard said: "At Winterthur, we are committed to supporting local and national charities, thanks to enthusiastic staff participation and generous donations.

"This year, as a company we wanted to acknowledge our social responsibility to the community and make a commitment towards one local cause, while focusing the efforts of our staff and business relationships to really 'Make a Difference'.

"Naomi House is a very deserving charity and one that we look forward to supporting throughout the year."

Fundraising got off to a romantic start with staff raising more than £600 through a Valentine's Day raffle. The lucky winners will be announced on February 14, with first prize being an overnight stay in one of London's most luxurious hotels, The Grove.

Other possible money-raising events planned for this year include climbing Ben Nevis and an abseil challenge from the top of the seven-storey Winterthur head office building.

Jill Livingstone, corporate fundraiser for Naomi House, said everyone at the hospice - which is located in Sutton Scotney - is delighted that Winterthur has chosen it to be the company's charity of the year.

She told Winterthur employees that the hospice provides palliative care and support to children with life-limiting conditions from across southern and central England.

Mrs Livingstone explained: "Naomi House is a very special place and, on behalf of everyone there, I would like to thank you for your support and I look forward to the year ahead.

"It costs us approximately £2.5million each year to keep the doors of Naomi House open to support our children and their families. We rely on voluntary contributions, and your support is going to make a huge difference."

As part of its service, the hospice offers bereavement care and support for the families for as long as they require it. The team is currently assisting more than 200 families.

First published: Wednesday, February 8, 2006