Sobell House is widely recognised as an outstanding hospice. They are thought leaders in their field and provide outstanding end of life care. Oyster were engaged to refresh the brand and help to enhance their supporter communications, appealing not only to those who have experienced of the hospice but to the wider local population. The hospice is dependent on donations and the brand refresh needed to further grow their supporter base.
Gaining a thorough understanding is always our starting point when engaging on a brand project. After a number of meetings with the management team, we designed an online questionnaire and ran a series of focus group sessions. We engaged supporters, family and friends, staff and other stakeholders. Our objective was not only to gain a deeper understanding of the hospice but to explore what it is that makes them stand out, what are the 'little things' that make a big difference, what barriers a hospice might face in raising donations from local people unfamiliar with their services and why Sobell House is so important to the community.
Oyster developed a selection of design and proposition routes initially and presented these in a comprehensive document as part of our proven six stage brand process. Headlines, supporting lines and copy style and tone were all a key part of the process. Our initial stage of brand visuals explored all the key ingredients of the brand including colours, typography and graphic styles and devices. The brand impact was demonstrated through sample visuals showing how different routes might work on print and digital media and how supporter communications can be shaped. The essence of Sobell House's identity was preserved with the focus always on a refresh and enhancement.
