CEO Steve Smith and members of staff taking a tour of the new Fair Havens

New Hospice for Southend Edges Closer

A new adult hospice caring for the people of Southend, Castle Point and Rochford has taken two significant steps forward in its progress.

Fair Havens Hospice, which is building a new facility in Prittlewell, is pushing forward to raise the remaining money needed to complete the project in time for its opening in spring 2020.

In August, the charity launched its ‘Power of a Pound’ appeal to raise the remaining £350,000 – now just £181,000 is needed.

As well as the kind gifts from supporters across the towns, Fair Havens has also been incredibly fortunate to receive some large gifts from individuals, trusts and legacies. A tour dedicated to the neighbours of the new hospice took place on 2nd November as a way of showing them what’s been happening behind the hoardings and to thank them for their support.

At the same time, the purpose of the hospice is becoming more a reality as a ‘sample bedroom’ within the new hospice has been completed by Barnes Construction. The idea of finishing off one room at this early stage is so the Care Team can get used to where equipment is and decide on the important finishing touches which make such a difference to their working environment, for example where the glove dispensers or hand sanitisers are placed.

Senior Nurse Louise McKay, who visited the hospice with her colleagues, said, “It was the amount of light within the room which struck me first. It’s beautiful and airy, with plenty of space in which we can care for the patient which will make such a difference for them and their family. It’s decorated beautifully too.”

The scaffolding surrounding the building has now been taken down whilst work is concentrated on the inside of the hospice. The LED lighting and doors are being fitted, hoists will be added to all the bedrooms, flooring will be laid, and decoration will start in the next week.

CEO of Havens Hospices Steve Smith – who is also New Fair Havens Project Director – said, “Progress is happening rapidly now and it’s really exciting to see the actual care environments shaping up. But we wouldn’t have reached this stage without the support of our local communities who have been incredibly generous by making donations, arranging fundraising events and requesting information about volunteering.

“We’re not at the finish line just yet, so as we head into the Christmas season please remember your new adult hospice if you’re planning any festive fundraising. Every gift, no matter what size, will go towards building the hospice, helping to provide care for patients and families when they need it most and helping to secure the future of modern hospice care.”

Every month, Fair Havens turn away 11 people because the beds are not available for them. The new Fair Havens will be able to care for twice as many patients in a bright, modern hospice caring for adults at every stage of their illness.

Positioned opposite Priory Park, patients and their families will be cared for in a relaxing, friendly and welcoming environment. The care of Fair Havens Hospice will continue to be free for patients and families – but this can only happen with continued support from local people.

To find out more about the new Fair Havens or to make a donation online, please click here.

If you’re interested in volunteering opportunities, such as flower arranging, nurse support, gardening, kitchen or housekeeping, please email volunteering@havenshosices.org.uk or call 01702 426231.

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CEO Steve Smith and staff taking a tour of the new Fair Havens