Shropshire Star

Hospice opens new bereavement suite thanks to kindness of supporter

People living with bereavement will be given the care and support they need in a new ‘oasis of calm’, thanks to the kindness of a charity supporter.

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Severn Hospice was only able to transform tired and outdated family support rooms at Bicton in South Shropshire into a welcoming space of tranquillity and calm when Kevin Morris stepped forward to help.

His family has close connections to the hospice and Mr Morris wanted to show his support to a charity.

Sharon Jones, Severn Hospice Patient and Family Support Services Manager said: “We are so grateful to Kevin whose kind gift has helped make our vision a reality. This beautiful new space is now a welcoming oasis of calm, safety and protection.  

“Visiting the hospice following a bereavement can be difficult, so we really wanted to create an environment that reflects the warmth, compassion and quality of our care. A huge amount of thought has gone into every single detail – from the gorgeous flower beds at the entrance to the carefully chosen colour palette, artworks and furniture."

Mr Morris, who attended an opening ceremony for the new suite that will bear his name in recognition of his gift, said: “The rooms are simply stunning, and I feel honoured to have been involved in a project that will help support so many people at such difficult times. 

“I have always admired the tremendous work of the hospice. I had originally intended to leave a legacy in my will but then decided to leave it in my lifetime instead. Seeing that it is already being put to good use and making such a difference is very rewarding.” 

Jess Martindale - social worker, Kevin Morris, Tracie Harrison - Director of Income Generation at the charity, and Jeanette Whitford - Chair of Trustees.
Jess Martindale - social worker, Kevin Morris, Tracie Harrison - Director of Income Generation at the charity, and Jeanette Whitford - Chair of Trustees.

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Severn Hospice provides not just clinical care, but also emotional, spiritual and psychological support.

The Kevin Morris Bereavement Suite has a small, quiet room and a larger garden room that extends to a stunning outside space, all specifically designed to be adaptable for all ages and for individuals, families and groups. 

Sharon added: “It is a real privilege to help people explore and navigate their feelings when their worlds have been turned upside down and to support them in creating a new type of normal.

“Grief is as unique as a fingerprint and our support takes on different forms for each person. The flexibility of the suite will enable us to develop and grow our services in a way that will support our patients and their families in a way to suit their needs.”

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