New family lounge opens at St Giles Hospice to support loved ones

The ribbon was cut at the opening on Wednesday, 16 July by bereaved husband Sean Collins, who also spoke to guests about what the new family lounge will mean for families just like his.

Guests included Atherstone Town Mayor Councillor Sara Bishop and East Staffordshire Mayor Councillor Kim Smith, and a trustee from the Francis and Eric Ford Charity Trust who helped fund the project.

Sean, a 40-year-old police officer from Lichfield, lost his beloved wife Felicity to ovarian cancer at St Giles Hospice in November 2023. Felicity, who was just 38 when she died, left behind two young children.

Speaking at the opening, Sean shared how the hospice provided dignity and comfort during the most difficult time of his family's life. "Our biggest fear was that Felicity would die in pain, and that didn't happen because of the amazing staff here," he told guests.

Sean emphasised how the new family lounge would have made an enormous difference during their time at the hospice. "A room like this would make all the difference to a family like mine," he said. "My wife spent seven or eight days here so we spent a lot of time here. Sometimes the ward can be overwhelming and there wasn't a place to go. At the time it would have been perfect for the family."

He added: "Having looked at it, it's great, and set up for kids and adults. Having that room gives you the option to stay within the building and have regular breaks away from the ward. Sadly it will get a lot of use but it will be well used by families who need it."

The newly transformed space addresses a significant need that families like Sean's have experienced first-hand. Previously, visitors often had to sit in corridors on benches with no quiet space for personal discussions or somewhere comfortable to rest during long visits.

The project was made possible through a combination of funding sources, including a grant from the Francis and Eric Ford Charity Trust and a portion of the government's £100 million funding boost for the end of life care sector, which was specifically earmarked for refurbishments and enhanced facilities for patients and visitors.

The family lounge features comfortable sofas, a television, and kitchen facilities allowing visitors to make drinks and food. A dedicated children's area adjoins the main room, equipped with a games console, games, and a TV, ensuring younger family members have a relaxed and friendly space during difficult times.

Elinor Eustace, CEO of St Giles Hospice, said: "Today marks a very special milestone in our journey to support families during their most challenging times. This new space will provide countless families with the comfort, privacy and dignity they deserve whilst we care for their loved ones."

Vicci Pountney, Trustee at the Francis and Eric Ford Charity Trust and a volunteer at St Giles, was inspired to support the project after witnessing special moments at the hospice. 

Speaking about the family lounge, she said: "I’ve been volunteering here for years and seen so many families use the service. Having somewhere for them to go, especially the children, will be incredible. It is absolutely what the Inpatient Unit needs. It will give families the privacy they need and make them feel more comfortable while they are here.”

Toby Porter, CEO of Hospice UK added: "It's wonderful to see St Giles Hospice creating such a great space for families and loved ones of those in their care. The new family lounge is a brilliant example of the compassionate, person-centred support hospices bring to dying people and their loved ones, providing peace and privacy at the most challenging time of their lives."

The opening event concluded with guests viewing the new facilities, which is now open for families and their loved ones.