Hospice receives £800k for building upgrades

The charity, based in Chelmsford, cared for 4,541 people in 2023-24

A hospice has been awarded £800,000 to upgrade its bedrooms, building and gardens.

In December 2024, the government announced it would be giving £100m for improving buildings, equipment and accommodation at hospices in England.

Farleigh Hospice in Chelmsford plans to add three en suite bedrooms to its inpatient unit and transform its Courtyard Cafe.

Director Irene Ferguson said she was "really pleased" although said there was frustration the funds were ringfenced and could not be used on "day-to-day services".

"Whilst we really appreciate the £800,000 and it does enable us to get these big projects done - which are really needed - it doesn't go anywhere towards helping us to run the day-to-day services of providing end-of-life care for our patients in the community," said Ms Ferguson.

"Being able to deliver that patient care is obviously what we're all about, and we rely heavily on the generosity of our community, who donate and fundraise for us in order that we can provide that care."

According to its latest report and financial statements, Farleigh cared for 4,541 people in 2023-24.

It has 327 employees and about 600 volunteers. It relies heavily on donations and it was left with a £500,000 loss at the end of 2023-24.

Irene Ferguson says more beds will mean an increase in running costs

The hospice also plans to upgrade its 20-year-old kitchen, IT equipment and revamp its gardens.

Staff cook fresh meals daily for patients, families and visitors, and Ms Ferguson said the upgrades would bring down running costs.

"It is enabling us to do some great work," she added.

She said the money had to be spent before the end of March and anything unspent had to be returned.

The additional beds would "help", but they would also come with additional running costs, and therefore, the hospice needed support for running costs.

"That's really where it's needed," said Ms Ferguson.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: "Hospices do incredible work to support people and families when they need it most, and we recognise the incredibly tough pressures they are facing.

"This government made the biggest investment in hospices in a generation - £100m – to improve hospice facilities and has committed to £80m for children's and young people's hospices over three years.

"This week, we set out how we will transform palliative and end of life care nationwide – ending the postcode lottery and ensuring every patient and family receives the quality care and support they deserve."