New palliative care suite opened at Weymouth's Westhaven Hospital
It's been made possible through local fundraising
A new palliative care suite's been opened at Weymouth's Westhaven Hospital, to support people reaching the end of their life.
The Evergreen Suite is part of the Radipole Ward there, as a 'welcoming space for relatives to spend quality with loved ones receiving care'.
Dorset HealthCare's set it up, thanks to local public fundraising.
Hospital Matron Helen De Jonge said:
“This facility has been made possible thanks to a very generous donation of £54,000 from our League of Friends.
“Relatives of former patients, and staff, also contributed to the costs, taking part in various fundraising activities to help us reach our total of £68,200. It’s been a fantastic effort by so many people, and I can’t thank them enough.
“The suite is decorated sympathetically with relaxing colours not normally associated with a clinical environment. There is a sofa bed so loved ones can stay overnight, and the room opens out onto our beautiful garden – allowing patients to have their beloved pets to spend time with them too.”
As part of the opening ceremony, the suite received a blessing by retired Reverend Canon Andrew Gough, formerly of Holy Trinity, Weymouth.
The Mayor of Weymouth Cllr Kate Wheller, Mayor of Chickerell Cllr Mike Jolliffe and Mayor of Portland Cllr Carralyn Parkes also attended.