Springhill Hospice updates suite for patients’ loved ones

The family suites are private spaces where family can stay for free

This year Springhill Hospice has celebrated its 35th anniversary. Over the years there have been many changes and improvements made to the hospice spaces, almost all of which have been achieved through grants or fundraising.

The latest improvement at the Outstanding-rated hospice has been to their two family suites: these are private spaces where those with a loved one on the Inpatient Unit can stay free of charge to be near their special person during their final days.

These renovations were made possible thanks to the incredible fundraising activities of one very special woman: Joan Davies. Joan’s beloved husband, Ken Davies MBE, was a long-term supporter of the hospice, having fundraised at its inception, going on to work with Springhill for almost 35 years, becoming head of fundraising and later a trustee.

Having given so much, there came a time when Ken himself needed the services he had helped shaped, spending his final days being cared for at Springhill Hospice.

Joan and her family were able to stay by his side thanks to the Springhill Family Suites and although they were massively appreciated, Joan felt they could do with some TLC and made it her mission to ensure those rooms were as welcoming and comfortable as possible for future guests.

It was a gesture so touching that Springhill CEO, Sam Wells said of Joan: “I think it takes a very special kind of person that at their very worst time, they think about other people, and how to make their worst times, better.”

Plan in hand, Joan went on to raise £12,222 within just a few months, and with additional grants of £5,000 from the Screwfix Foundation and £2,000 from the Duchy of Lancaster Benevolent Fund, the rooms were transformed.

New beds and furniture have been installed with a high-end hotel feel and a cosy colour scheme and very importantly, the previously awkward shower enclosures have been replaced by a luxury wet-room style space, easily accessible to all.

Springhill Hospice patron Lady Mary Peters LG, CH, DBE and Joan cut the ribbon together at the opening ceremony and were wowed by the final results, with Joan saying: “Wow, they’re just beautiful. So calming. Well worth all the effort.”

Springhill would also like to thank Profix Rochdale and RTD blinds for their help in doing the work and are humbled to announce that both suites are already heavily in use and have been incredibly well received by those who need them.