About our Inpatient Unit redevelopment

We know that plans like this raise important questions for patients, their families, our supporters and our neighbours. Below, we’ve answered the things people most often ask us, focusing first on what matters most day to day.

Will patients still receive care during the building work?

Yes. All hospice services will continue throughout the redevelopment.

Providing safe, compassionate care is our absolute priority. Wherever care is delivered during the project, the same high standards, support and approach will remain.

Where will inpatients be cared for while work is taking place?

Inpatient care will continue throughout the project.

We are carefully planning safe and appropriate temporary arrangements that allow us to deliver care exactly as we do now, and as close to the hospice as possible. More details will be shared once plans are finalised.

Will visiting or how families spend time together change?

No. There will be no change to visiting arrangements or the way families are supported. Wherever care is delivered, we remain committed to creating time, space and privacy for loved ones to be together.

Will the number of inpatient beds change?

No. We will continue to provide the same number of beds throughout the project.

When the redevelopment is complete, the Inpatient Unit will have 10 private, en-suite bedrooms.

Why is the Inpatient Unit being redeveloped?

The current unit is around 25 years old and no longer offers the level of privacy, comfort and calm we want for patients and families.

The redevelopment will create a more peaceful, dignified environment, with better facilities for patients, improved spaces for families, and a setting that supports high-quality care now and in the future.

What difference will private, en-suite rooms make?

Private rooms:

• Protect dignity and privacy
• Allow families to spend precious time together
• Reduce noise and support better rest
• Strengthen infection control
• Help people feel safe, settled and at ease

These changes make a meaningful difference to people’s experience of hospice care.

When will work start and how long will it take?

Work is expected to begin in spring 2026.

The full timeline will be confirmed once contractors are appointed. We will share regular updates with out patients, supporters, community and stakeholders through the media, on our website and social media as the project progresses.

Will there be disruption during the build?

Some disruption, such as noise at certain stages, is likely.

We will do everything we can to minimise disruption and maintain a calm, safe environment for patients and families. We will also give advance notice wherever possible.

Will the redevelopment affect neighbours or local traffic?

There may be some construction traffic at certain times, but disruption will be kept to a minimum.

The project includes improvements to parking and better use of our site, which will help reduce pressure in the longer term.

How will this improve hospice care overall?

The redeveloped unit will:

• Offer calm, private spaces for patients and families
• Improve comfort, lighting and ventilation
• Strengthen infection control
• Create a more welcoming, less clinical environment

It will also help us care for around 50 more inpatients each year.

What improvements are being made behind the scenes?

The project includes upgrades to essential infrastructure, such as the oxygen supply, making it safer, quieter and easier to use. This reduces reliance on portable equipment and allows staff to spend more time at the bedside.

Solar panels will also be installed, saving the hospice more than £15,000 a year in energy costs – savings that go directly back into patient care.

How have patients, families and staff been involved?

Patients, families and staff have shared their experiences and views to help shape the plans.

We have also worked with Asist Advocacy Services to ensure the new environment reflects real needs and priorities.

How much will the project cost?

The full redevelopment is expected to cost around £1.5 million.

How is the project being funded?

We hope funding will come from a mix of:

• Hospice reserves
• Government capital funding
• Grants from charitable trusts and foundations
• Community fundraising through an appeal

Government funding comes with specific conditions and timeframes, but we are using it wherever possible. This investment will not reduce day-to-day spending on patient care.

Why is fundraising needed?

Using only reserves would place pressure on the hospice’s long-term stability, and grants often come with restrictions.

Community support helps us:

• Protect funds for future patient care
• Reduce financial risk
• Involve local people in shaping the hospice’s future

Large projects like this are usually funded through a combination of grants, reserves and community fundraising.

How can I support the project?

You can support the appeal by donating, fundraising, sharing our story or simply helping spread the word. Every contribution helps us create a better hospice for today and for the future.

Look out for our appeal which will launch in April.