(L to R) Dr Lisa Boulstridge (St Giles Hospice Consultant), Councillor Gerald Pinner (Mayor of Tamworth), Councillor Geoff Morrison (Mayor East Staffordshire), Pamela Morrison (Mayoress of East Staffordshire) ,Tony Shaw, (Director SpellarMetcalfe, Constructors of the new IPU) and Peter Holliday, (Group Chief Executive of St Giles Hospice).

(L to R) Dr Lisa Boulstridge (St Giles Hospice Consultant), Councillor Gerald Pinner (Mayor of Tamworth), Councillor Geoff Morrison (Mayor East Staffordshire), Pamela Morrison (Mayoress of East Staffordshire) ,Tony Shaw, (Director SpellarMetcalfe, Constructors of the new IPU) and Peter Holliday, (Group Chief Executive of St Giles Hospice).

St Giles Hospice invited some special guests to an exclusive preview of the new In-Patient ward at the Whittington Hospice.

The event, which was designed to show patrons, trustees, senior hospice staff and builders some the exciting new features of the new In-Patient unit which is set to replace the existing facility when it opens in 2010.

Some of the features that the new facility has includes it’s “Green Roof” which will provide insulation and a slower discharge of rain water into the drains.  Guest’s were also allowed to walk around the ground floor bedrooms which have special roof lights to create a light and airy feel, as well as large en-suite facilities and access to a terrace and gardens, all designed to benefit the patients.

St Giles Hospice Capital Appeal Director, Laura Pennycuick, says:

“We’re very excited that the new IPU is taking shape and on target for completion at the end of this year, with the first patients due to transfer in April 2010.

“We were able to show our guests images of the sample bedroom which had been prepared for the hospice to verify and enhance the specifications.

“Combined with specialist new equipment, improved facilities for relatives including overnight accommodation, and additional patient beds, we aim to set a new standard for hospice care in the region.”

The new facility is scheduled to open in April 2010, replacing the existing facility and improving the care that the hospice can provide to those living with cancer or other serious illnesses.

The new unit has been built through funds generated through individuals, local companies, statutory bodies and grants as well as an additional £500,000 grant from the Department of Health.  So far £1.9m has been raised which will enable the opening of the 18 bed facility.  The other beds will come online as more funding is made available.

Further details on the Capital Appeal are available by calling 0121 378 6295 or emailing laura.pennycuick@st-giles-hospice.org.uk.