Haven House officially opened its newly refurbished hospice with an afternoon reception attended by charity Patrons Vicki Michelle, Martin Ellice, Ambassadors Christopher Biggins, Rochelle Humes and poet Hussain Manawer on Wednesday 6 June.

Around 90 guests, including key supporters and healthcare professionals attended the reception and received tours of the interior which has been redesigned to be brighter and more colourful with new bedrooms, wet rooms, floors and a vibrant rainbow staircase.

In January, Haven House launched its biggest ever refurbishment programme to upgrade care facilities at The White House in Woodford Green with support from Chigwell Construction, Galliard Homes, DM Thomas Foundation for Young People, Matchroom Foundation, M&G Foundation, Sir Jules Thorn Charitable Trust, Story of Christmas and the Wolfson Foundation.

Space inside has been increased and made more accessible with a new open-plan nurses station, wider door frames, larger lift and the removal of partitions. The bereavement suite has been moved closer to the family flat for greater privacy. 

Whilst the work took place, Haven House’s respite and residential services were temporarily moved to the Holly Private Hospital in Buckhurst Hill. Following competition of the refurbishment, care staff and families transferred back to Haven House last month.  

During the reception, staff from the Holly cut a purple ribbon to officially open Haven House’s new teenage bedroom which has been named ‘Holly Room’.

The Holly Private Hospital are long-standing supporters of Haven House. All five bedrooms have been renamed after trees to reflect the hospice’s tranquil location in beautiful woodland. 

Mike Palfreman, Chief Executive of Haven House, said: “We are so grateful to Chigwell Construction and the incredible generosity of our supporters who made it possible to transform our hospice with a brighter, colourful and more spacious interior in our 15th birthday year.

“This has been our biggest refurbishment since opening in 2003 and means we are in a better position to meet the changing needs of our families for many years to come.”

Find out more about our services at The White House