Rowans Hospice opens new support centre

A NEW centre run by a hospice has opened to offer support classes and a relaxing environment.
Rowans Living Well Centre has opened its doors. Building contractor Bill Richardson of Richardsons (Nyewood) Ltd hands over the keys to the building to honorary chairman of trustees Elizabeth EmmsRowans Living Well Centre has opened its doors. Building contractor Bill Richardson of Richardsons (Nyewood) Ltd hands over the keys to the building to honorary chairman of trustees Elizabeth Emms
Rowans Living Well Centre has opened its doors. Building contractor Bill Richardson of Richardsons (Nyewood) Ltd hands over the keys to the building to honorary chairman of trustees Elizabeth Emms

Built next door to The Rowans Hospice in Purbook Heath Road, the Rowans Living Well Centre opened earlier this month. The £1.7m building is available for people affected by life-limiting illnesses as well as families or anyone dealing with loss or bereavement.

The centre, which has taken about a year to build and was funded by the Department of Health, grants and fundraising by the hospice, is open on weekdays between 10am and 4pm for anyone needing support. No medical referral is needed for people to access the service.

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Chief executive of The Rowans Hospice Ruth White said: ‘The opening was quite emotional.

‘This has been four years of hard work by a team of people to achieve the dream of having a centre which can be readily accessed by people who are affected by life-limiting illnesses, loss and bereavement.

‘It is a truly beautiful building, which will provide a haven to those needing advice, support and help.’

At the opening of the centre building contractor Bill Richardson, from Richardsons Ltd, formally handed over the keys to honorary chairman of trustees Elizabeth Emms.

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People visiting it can spend time making new friends and participating in a variety of activities from art and craft groups to exercise classes. The centre also offers:

n Support to maintain independence and wellbeing and to manage stress for individuals and families.

n A cafe where visitors can have a cup of tea/coffee and chat with others.

n Information and advice about other services and resources.

n Complementary therapies including gentle massage and reflexology.

n Talks to facilitate planning for future care needs.

n Bereavement support groups.