Update on government capital grant

In our previous edition of the Lantern, we told you that Farleigh Hospice has been awarded an £800,000 government grant. Since then, we have received a further grant of £280,000.

Heart of Farleigh Spring 2026 edition (opens in a new window)

This funding is dedicated to capital expenditure, so we can only spend it on improvements to our buildings, equipment and infrastructure, not our care services, staff salaries or other day-to-day running costs. The entire grant needed to be spent by the end of March 2026.

This year, we celebrate 20 years since we opened our hospice building in North Court Road, Chelmsford. This grant has given us the opportunity to update and expand our facilities, so we can continue to provide the highest quality care and support for our patients and their families, now and in the future.

Our capital programme is now gathering real momentum and we’re delighted to share the latest developments with you.

Modern interior with wooden shelves displaying plants and vases, green tiled backsplash, gray seating, and woven pendant lights hanging from the ceiling.

Kitchen, café and new atrium

The refurbishment of our 20-year-old kitchen and café is now in its final stages, ahead of our planned opening in April, and the transformation has been
remarkable. Work is also continuing on the new atrium – an inviting space adjoining the café – which remains on schedule for completion by the end of March.

We cannot wait to welcome our patients, families, staff, volunteers and visitors into this fresh, modern space – designed for comfort, connection and community –
where they can enjoy delicious, nutritious food.

New inpatient rooms

Over on the Inpatient Unit (IPU), our three new ensuite rooms are due to be completed by mid-March. They reflect our continuing commitment to delivering exceptional, compassionate care for everyone who turns to us. Each room enhances the experience of the patients that we care for and their families. As with our current rooms, they will offer a calm environment with modern furnishings, improved lighting, thoughtful layouts and their own private patio area, to help our patients feel comfortable, relaxed and supported. Their design also supports our clinical care, as improved accessibility and better room layouts enable our staff to deliver high quality care more seamlessly and discreetly.

New space for lasting memories

Thanks to some additional funding, we are also creating a dedicated area where patients can record their memories for their families. This thoughtful new space will offer a calm, private environment for capturing stories, reflections and messages that loved ones can cherish for years to come. It’s a meaningful addition to our services and one we are proud to be developing.

If you’d like to get involved, volunteer or simply learn more about the work underway, we’re always happy to chat: please email us at [email protected]

It’s an exciting time and we’re grateful to everyone who continues to support these improvements that will benefit our community for years to come.

This article is taken from the latest ‘Heart of Farleigh’ magazine.

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