Lymington: Oakhaven Hospice seeks to expand in-patient unit

Oakhaven, the only facility of its type in the New Forest, is seeking consent to transform its single-storey in-patient unit (IPU) into a two -and-a-half storey complex containing six extra bedrooms.

The Lymington hospice also wants to build a two-storey training centre where health care professionals can "gain and share" knowledge.

Members of New Forest District Council are being recommended to approve the application at a meeting on Wednesday, June 12.

Oakhaven Hpspice in Lymington has been serving the New Forest area for more than 30 years (Image: Newsquest)

A report to members says: "The application proposes the redevelopment of the existing IPU with a larger building that would provide additional care and ancillary staff facilities.

"Additionally, it is proposed to construct a two-storey detached building to provide additional staff and education facilities.

"It is important to recognise that the hospice is a valuable community facility which provides an important care function."

The report describes Oakhaven as large enough to accommodate the proposed new IPU building, adding: "It would not have a harmful impact on the appearance of the site and its rural surroundings."

Oakhaven Hospice in Lymington has been serving the New Forest area for more than 30 years (Image: Newsquest)

The hospice has been serving the New Forest area for more than 30 years.

If its application is approved, the ground floor of the new IPU will boast 16 en-suite bedrooms designed to meet current care standards. The upper floors will house staff facilities, "critically needed" office space, and a storage area for medical supplies.

A design and access statement that accompanies the application says the purpose-built ward will provide exceptional care in a non-clinical environment.

In November last year it emerged that Oakhaven had already secured £2.2m of funding for the proposed improvements to the site.

The chief executive, Andrew Ryde, said: "Certain donations and grants have been made specifically for future-proofing and longer-term investment in the hospice to ensure our facilities remain able to keep up with service demand in our catchment area.

“It is proposed that the additional six in-patient beds are nurse-led rather than consultant-led and therefore running costs are likely to be met by the NHS, rather than adding to our annual costs."

Oakhaven provides free specialist care and support for patients with life-limiting illnesses, both at the hospice and in their own homes.

Only 11 per cent of its funding is provided by the government. The rest comes from other sources, including legacies, charity shop income, and donations.