Bid is launched to renovate The Rowans Hospice

The Rowans Hospice, in Purbrook, has had two rooms redecorated to make them friendlier for patients who have dementia or cognitive impairment.

In the long run, the hospice has announced it would like all rooms to be refurbished.

Tanya Wears, head of housekeeping, said: ‘By working with a range of dementia specialists, the team at the hospice have developed an understanding of the specific requirements for these patients.

‘We were fortunate enough to receive two grants which supported the costs of refurbishing two of the 19 rooms.

‘The refurbishment included decoration in appropriate colours – purple and green have been selected as these are calming colours – and the en-suite bathrooms have been redesigned, replacing wall tiles that have been in existence since the hospice opened its doors. The lighting has been replaced, allowing the room to have as much or as little light needed.

‘We have also replaced some of the clinical equipment in the rooms and have colourful bedding to make the rooms feel more homely.’

Each room cost just over £6,000 to refurbish. The hospice is also providing support for those people in the community with complex dementia who are nearing end of life, and their carers.

The new Living Well Centre, providing therapies for people with life-limiting illness, is due to open in the autumn. To find out about helping to fund a room renovation, email [email protected].