Background Many people choose to fundraise or donate to hospices and palliative care charities after experiencing a bereavement. ‘One third of adults have given money in memory over the past 12 months’, which ‘totals over £2 billion a year’(Legacy Foresight. Giving tomorrow. 2019). However, research is limited regarding the impact of fundraising following bereavement, and anecdotal evidence is often used by charities.

Aim To explore experiences of fundraising in memory following bereavement of a person who has received specialist palliative care services.

Method Qualitative semi-structured telephone interviews with 18 participants who had fundraised in memory for the charity, Marie Curie. A stratified random sample of those who had participated in fundraising activities, over a two-year period, from the four UK nations. Interview transcripts were coded utilising thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke. Qual Res Psychol. 2006; 3(2): 77–101) on NVivo. Engagement with public representatives and diversity networks were used to reflect upon the findings.

Results Four themes emerged: 1) Making meaning after loss: Most participants fundraised to show gratitude, out of duty and to honour the memory of their relative or friend. In contrast, some participants chose to fundraise as a temporary distraction from their grief. 2) Burdens of fundraising: Some participants experienced practical and emotional challenges, such as guilt and embarrassment about asking for donations. However, for many, these were burdens they wanted to bear. 3) Fundraising support needs: Many felt their needs were met, but some suggested aspects to improve on. 4) Looking to the future: Short-term effects were reported such as improved wellbeing, social connections, and a diversion from experiencing grief. Longer-term outcomes included enhancing positive memories around their loved one and a sense of achievement.

Conclusion Most participants reported fundraising following bereavement to be a positive experience, with short and longer-term benefits. Ensuring access to emotional and practical support throughout the fundraising process, tailored to the individual’s need is recommended.