People with life limiting illnesses in Cumbria are set for a boost in care as the NHS has announced a six-month partnership with the Eden Valley Hospice.
The hospice has dedicated four new beds to patients from North Cumbria Integrated Care Foundation Trust who need constant support to aid their health and mobility.
Jenny Wilson, head of clinical care and deputy chief executive at Eden Valley Hospice said: “We stood shoulder to shoulder with our NHS colleagues during the start of the pandemic, and this will allow us to offer more robust support for the benefit of the local community, whilst receiving dedicated funding.
“Those patients referred to the hospice will be cared for in a calmer environment, with a higher staff to patient ratio and they’ll have access to emotional, social, practical and spiritual support.”
This brings the total number of beds provided by Eden Valley Hospice up to 12.
Each one is funded primarily by donations.
The hospice also provides outpatient clinics, support for carers and day care for adults with specific medical needs.
Anna Stabler, chief nurse at the trust said, “We are delighted to have secured the funding for these beds as part of our winter plans.
“Through excellent partnership working we have detailed arrangements in place to ensure that the appropriate patients are transferred and the homely environment allows for patients to be cared for in the most suitable environment for them.”
The trust is responsible for two acute hospitals, the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle and the West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven, as well as many community hospitals across the county.
