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.
We also understand that changes can feel uncertain, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
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, the same high standards, support and approach will remain.
Where will inpatient care take place during the work?
Inpatient care will temporarily move to Ward 8 at County Hospital, a short distance from the hospice and opposite Nightingales Restaurant.
Clear signage will be in place to help patients and visitors find us easily, and we will share full details about access, parking and arrival ahead of the move. Our team will also be on hand to guide patients and visitors on arrival.
Will it feel like a hospital or a hospice?
We are working to make the space as calm and homely as possible, including using our own equipment and furnishings wherever we can.
Our care, people and approach will remain exactly the same.
Will visiting or how families spend time together change?
There will be no change to visiting arrangements or the way families are supported.
We remain committed to creating time, space and privacy for loved ones to be together.
Can pets still visit?
Yes — dogs will still be very welcome.
Will the number of inpatient beds change?
We will continue to provide the same number of beds during the project.
When the redevelopment is complete, the Inpatient Unit will have 10 private, en-suite bedrooms.
Why is the Inpatient Unit being redeveloped?
Our Inpatient Unit has supported thousands of families over the past 25 years. We now have an opportunity to improve the space so it better meets the needs of patients and families.
The redevelopment will create a more peaceful, comfortable environment, with improved facilities that support high-quality care now and in the future.
What difference will the new rooms make?
Private, en-suite rooms will:
- Protect dignity and privacy
- Allow families to spend meaningful time together
- Reduce noise and support better rest
- Improve infection control
- Help people feel safe, settled and at ease
These changes will make a meaningful difference to people’s experience of hospice care.
When will work start and how long will it take?
Work will begin in May.
We will share regular updates with patients, families and supporters as the project progresses.
Will there be disruption during the build?
There may be some disruption at certain stages, such as noise, but we will do everything we can to minimise this and maintain a calm, safe environment.
We will also give advance notice wherever possible.
Will this affect neighbours or local traffic?
Some construction traffic is expected at certain times, but disruption will be kept to a minimum.
The project also includes improvements to parking and the use of our site, which will help 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
- Create a more welcoming, less clinical environment
It will also allow us to care for more people each year.
How will patients and families be kept informed?
Patients and families will be kept fully informed by our care teams, either face-to-face or by phone, so you always know what to expect.
We will also share updates through our website and other channels as the project progresses.
How much will the project cost?
The full redevelopment is expected to cost around £1.8 million.
How is the project being funded?
The project will be funded through a combination of hospice reserves, grants and community support.
This approach allows us to improve our buildings while protecting day-to-day spending on patient care.
Why is fundraising needed?
Community support plays an important role in projects like this.
It helps us protect funds for future patient care, reduce financial risk, and involve local people in shaping the future of the hospice.
How can I support the project?
If you would like to support the project, you can donate, fundraise or help share our story.
Our Building Care appeal will launch in mid-May, offering more ways to get involved and support this work.
Every contribution helps us create a better hospice for today and for the future.
