Hospice reception closed for refurb work

4:49pm Monday 12th May 2008

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A £300,000 building scheme for St Ann's Hospice began today to improve access for patients and visitors.

The work has forced the main entrance will be closed for up to 16 weeks while contractors refurbish the reception area.

During that time all patients and visitors will be directed to a temporary reception through the rear entrance.

Liam McCarthy, the Hospice's director of finance overseeing the refurbishment, said: "We have made plans so that the refurbishment work will cause minimum disruption to the service provided, but we would ask patients, visitors and staff to bear with us while this essential work is carried out."

The refurbishment of the main entrance and reception was listed as a priority by Government funders to improve access for patients who had to be manoeuvred by ambulance staff through a dog leg' entranceway into the building. As well as a new open plan reception area, the refurbishment will include a freestanding canopy over the entrance doorway to protect patients from the elements when they are admitted by ambulance.

A bistro' style area where visitors can sit and enjoy snacks and drinks will also be provided, along with a play area for children who accompany visiting families. Two new relatives' sitting rooms will be constructed, including one for overnight stays for families.

The principal funding towards the cost of the refurbishment is a £153,000 grant from the Department of Health. Other donations totalling £97,500 have been received from trusts and benevolent organisations including the late Miss A E Hilton Trust, the Harrison Foundation, the Dowager Countess Eleanor Peel Trust, the Percy Bilton Charity and the Hedley Foundation.

St Ann's is working hard to secure the remaining funds of almost £50,000 for fixtures and fittings including play facilities for children, sittings rooms for families and bistro furniture. Any donors who may be able to help should contact Hospice Fundraising Manager Adrian Rigby-Bates on 0161 498 3655 or email arigby-bates@sah.org.uk