TODAY (OCT 5) marks the start of Hospice Care Week – and the Winchester Hospice team are delighted to support this special event which puts the spotlight on the vital role of hospices in local communities.

The Big Push campaign is raising the final £400,000 of a £3.7million target to get Winchester Hospice open in summer 2021 – and the fundraising journey will then begin a new chapter as the team set about raising further funds that will be needed to cover some of the hospice annual running costs.

Dr Lara Alloway, Winchester Hospice trustee, and Palliative Consultant and Chief Medical Officer for Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (HHFT), said: “There are more than 200 hospices across the UK that work with, and within, local communities to support individuals and families with palliative and end of life care.

“With the world dealing with the effects of COVID-19, expert palliative and end of life care is more important than ever. Hospice Care Week is a chance to recognise and celebrate this.”

Lara added: “The team involved in the Winchester Hospice campaign are so grateful for the wonderful support that we have received from local people – and we look forward to updating everyone on the progress of the Big Push campaign during Hospice Care Week.”

The national lockdown caused by the pandemic meant work had to be halted on transforming Burrell House into Winchester Hospice in March. However, workers from Reside Construction have been back on site at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital since the end of May, and they are pressing ahead with the construction.

Winchester Hospice will be run by HHFT. Its palliative care team have been a driving force behind the ambitious project as they know how important it is to have a local hospice facility that will help, support and care for the people of Winchester and the surrounding area.

Winchester Hospice will be the hub for specialist palliative care, providing inpatient care for up to 10 patients, as well as a host of outpatient and community support for people in their own homes.

For more information, and to donate, visit www.winchesterhospice.com or call the Winchester Hospice fundraising team on 01962 828353.