Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice get share of £1 million funding

Patients from the Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice are to share a £1 million funding boost from the Scottish Power Foundation.

Beneficiaries from community groups covering wildlife conservation, science-themed education, mental health awareness and theatrical productions are among the 17 projects receiving cash.

The fund was announced by Ann McKechin, trustee and executive officer at the hospice in Glasgow.

The charity, which offers palliative care to people with life-limiting or life-shortening illnesses, will fund a new 'Pamper Suite' at its new £21 million home at Bellahouston Park which opens open later this year.

The new hairdressing salon aims to boost patients' wellbeing and body image after emotional effects of treatment and medication.

To mark the donation, patients and staff enjoyed a live music concert staged by Music in Hospitals & Care.

Other projects planned include a theatre production by the National Theatre of Scotland, a marine conservation initiative by RSPB Scotland, and STEM learning programmes by National Museums Scotland and Dumfries House.

Ms McKechin said: "Applications for this year's funding blew us away with the incredible and diverse work happening around the UK, and to see the effects of funding in action here today is extremely moving.''

Rhona Baillie, CEO of the Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice, added: "Our new Hospice's Pamper Suite has been funded by the ScottishPower Foundation and this year's donation will allow us to complete our vision by installing a hairdressing salon where patients can be treated and helped to feel more like themselves again.'