Local builder fits new shower room and raises £700 for Farleigh Hospice nurses

Local builder Andy Barber has fitted a shower facility at Farleigh’s new hospice site in Maldon. The facility helps Farleigh nurses to continue to care for people living with a life-limiting illness through the COVID-19 pandemic.

The new shower room, which was constructed thanks to Andy and the support of a local plumber and material suppliers, enables nurses to wash between each home visit, reducing risks to both patients and staff.

Andy provided all his labour for free and sourced materials at a discounted price, but he needed an additional £700 to finish the project. The local builder was not deterred and set up a Facebook fundraising page, with the target of £700 being reached in just 2 days.

Upon completion of the shower installation, Andy said “My mum works for Farleigh Hospice and she asked me if I would be able to get the new shower enclosure installed at their premises in Maldon. Chandler Materials Supplies in Chelmsford opened up their shop and donated items, and The Tile Warehouse in Maldon donated tiles and other key materials. I am also grateful to everyone who supported the project and donated to our online fundraising page, without you we would not have been able to finish the job and help our local nurses.”

Staff at Maldon’s Tesco branch also contributed towards the project, with Manager Anthony Waterman and Community Champion Rhian Oakley organising an effort to donate shower items such as towels and shampoo, as well as snacks for Farleigh nurses to stay energised while caring in the community.

Allison Stevens, Farleigh Hospice Chief Executive said: “We are so grateful to Andy and everyone who supported this project. Thanks to you and the support of the Maldon community our nurses can continue to safely give high quality care to those living with a life-limiting illness.”

To donate to the Farleigh Hospice Community Appeal, please click here.

For our Farleigh Hospice helpline, please call 01245 457 300