Essential Information for Referrers and Visitors
Saint Francis Hospice continues to accept referrals as usual during our Ward Development Project (September 2025 – March 2026).
While our onsite Ward is undergoing construction and redesign, we have launched a new Enhanced Hospice at Home (EH@H) service. This innovative model allows us to deliver the same expert, compassionate care to individuals in their own homes, maintaining our full capacity of 18 commissioned beds – 11 onsite and 7 in the community.
Why refer to us as usual?
- Same referral process – no changes.
- Same high-quality care – whether on the Ward or at home.
- Same commitment to PPC and PPD – enabling individuals to be cared for and die in their preferred place.
- Enhanced community support – including symptom control, and medical input when needed.
- 24/7 advice and support – through our CNS advice line and consultant on-call rota.
EH@H is a nurse-led service supported by our medical team and wider MDT. It complements the care provided by district nurses, GPs, and other partners – and we continue to work collaboratively.
Please continue to refer to us as you always have. We are here, we are ready, and we are committed to delivering the best possible care.
Operational Updates and Visitor Guidance
The refurbishment of our ward is progressing well, remaining within one week of the original time frame. We are confident that Phase I will be completed before the end of November.
- Main Entrance Access: The main entrance is currently for drop-off and pick-up only.
- Orange Café Access: While Phase I is ongoing, visitors can access the Orange Café via the staff and volunteer corridor.
- Parking Guidance: Parking has been busier than usual. We kindly ask that all visitors continue to use available parking within the bay lines.
- Contact for Queries: If you have any questions regarding the project, please email these to warddevproject@sfh.org.uk
Wes Streeting Visits to See Funding in Action.
We recently welcomed the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, MP, to the Hospice. He toured the ward and witnessed the impact of the government’s capital funding, praising the dedication of our staff and noting how the atmosphere remained "calm and welcoming" despite the construction.
The project has been made possible thanks to capital funding, along with donations from our supporters, and is a powerful investment in future-proofing our high-quality care.
We thank you for your understanding and continued partnership as we enhance our facilities for the benefit of the community.
Our Specialist Advice Line is still open:
