A newly refurbished Family Centre at Birmingham Hospice is providing patients and their loved ones with a more welcoming, homely space where they can spend precious time together at the end of life.
The Centre, which is part of the Inpatient Unit (IPU) at the hospice’s Selly Park site, has had its two bedrooms, kitchen-dining area and lounge redecorated. It has been refreshed with new furniture, soft furnishings and equipment to ensure a private, comfortable space for patients and relatives.
It was officially unveiled by Chief Executive Paul Bytheway at a special ceremony, while IPU Sister Elisa McDonald cut the ribbon to officially open the Centre.
The revamp was funded by a grant of £9,980 from the Morrisons Foundation, with additional support from The Birmingham District Nursing Charitable Trust, CB & HH Taylor 1984 Charitable Trust and The George Henry Collins Charity.
IPU Sister Amy Clark in the patient bedroom of the
new-look Family
Centre.
Head of Inpatient Services Alison Breakwell and Elisa McDonald worked closely with the Fundraising Team to design and create a place which appeals to families of all ages. The hospice’s Facilities and Housekeeping Teams also helped to transform the area into a welcoming space.
Elisa said: “The new-look Family Centre gives loved ones a space where they can simply be together in a private and welcoming space. These updates have made it feel so much more like a home – warm, welcoming and comfortable.
“At such an important time, having a peaceful place where families can spend precious moments together and make lasting memories means so much.”
Several local companies also donated their time and expertise to ensure the Centre was completed. Howard Evans Roofing and Cladding Limited installed the soffits, while Exterius Facilities Management Ltd cleaned the Centre’s exterior walls, windows and cleared vegetation.
newly-refurbished lounge of then
Family Centre.
Head of Philanthropy Katie West said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped bring this refurbishment to life.
“Their care, dedication and attention to detail have created a warm, welcoming environment where families can spend precious time together in comfort and dignity.
“This refurbishment is a wonderful example of what can be achieved through teamwork and a shared commitment to supporting those who need us most.”
David Taylor, Community Champion for Morrisons in Stirchley, said: “The Family Centre looks really well done and it’s great to support a project which will make a difference to local people in their time of need.”
