Construction of a new, purpose-built hospice which will serve people in south east Essex has reached the halfway point.

Havens Hospices started building a new Fair Havens Hospice opposite Priory Park in Southend in October 2018 and work is on schedule. Barnes Construction - which is building the hospice for patients from across Southend, Rochford and Castle Point - has recently finished installing the roof trusses for the in-patient unit and is now setting sights on the day hospice and wellbeing centre.

Trevor Johnson, Havens Hospices acting chief executive, said: “I visited the site last week and it is amazing how far the build has progressed already - the frames are all up, roof trusses are being constructed, and brick walls are starting to emerge from the ground.

“Although the internal walls are not there yet, it’s clear now to see the defined areas of the hospice, which is very exciting. Everyone at Havens Hospices is incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received from the community so far; every donation you’ve made is getting us closer to securing the future of hospice care. Thank you.”

The new hospice will replace Fair Havens hospice in Westcliff. Based in a large old house, it has become unfit for purpose. Once the new hospice is built, the property will be sold for development.

The charity is now just over £950,000 away from raising all the money needed for the build. A spokeswoman said: “Every donation that is made – big or small – will make a huge difference for patients and families across South East Essex.”

The new Fair Havens Hospice is set to open in the spring of next year; so, the charity is now turning their attention to what they will need to provide high quality hospice care.

To find out how you can help Havens Hospices “take the next step” fundraiser and to see what donations are helping to create please visit www.fairhavensforlife.co.uk

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