New accommodation for Isles of Scilly residents undergoing medical treatment
It's been secured at the Royal Cornwall Hospital after a successful campaign from The Island Haven charity
People undergoing medical treatment, who live in the Isles of Scilly, will have access to mainland accommodation near the Royal Cornwall Hospital Treliske.
The charity The Island Haven has reached a milestone by securing a long-awaited five-bedroom property close to the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro, the nearest major hospital for islanders.
The property in Tresawls Road, just a few minutes from the hospital, will require some conversion work, but the charity hopes to have the much-needed facility available by the end of 2024.
Tim Guthrie, Chair of The Island Haven, said: "We are delighted to have achieved this major milestone in the charity’s history, a goal only achieved because of the tireless efforts of Scilly’s small albeit passionate community of islanders, local businesses and visitors.
"A combination of the COVID-19 pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis and Scilly’s small community of just 2,500 residents and around 100,000 annual visitors has meant we have had to adapt our original plans of a purpose-built facility.
"However, this pivot in our plans means The Island Haven is now truly on its feet, with a very real prospect that this vital facility will be available for those who need it before the end of this year."
According to the charity, islanders currently face considerable accommodation bills to stay in B&Bs, hotels or self-catering properties, causing financial stress at an already difficult time. Lack of accommodation availability, particularly during Cornwall’s peak tourist season, has sometimes meant islanders cancelling appointments or being unable to have their loved ones with them when they need it most.
Tim Guthrie added: "We really cannot emphasise enough our gratitude to the small but dedicated community of Scilly – islanders, visitors and businesses – who have made this a reality".
The property will provide a comforting space for islanders undergoing longer-term outpatient treatment, for loved ones accompanying patients during emergency treatment, or for patients discharged overnight or at weekends when travel home to the islands is impossible.
The Island Haven now continues to fundraise to convert, update and equip the property and fund the ongoing running and maintenance costs, working alongside the Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust to provide on-campus accommodation.