Installations are expected to begin in September with available beds on the ward being temporarily reduced from 18 to 11 during the six-month refurbishment period, the hospice revealed.
Seven beds are being switched to the Hospice at Home service which has been planned with staffing adjusted to ensure continuity of its palliative care.
The scheme got the green light last week with the appointment of a contractor to get the project off the ground.
The hospice at Havering-atte-Bower is installing new showers and updated bathrooms, hoists, furnishings, TVs, lighting and flooring.
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A therapy room and a ‘quiet’ room for relatives are also in the plans, along with installing energy-efficient solar panels.
The lounge and entrance are being redesigned to create “a more welcoming” and functional space.
“The project is vital to ensure our environment continues to meet the needs of everyone we care for,” hospice project manager Steve McClure said.
“We want to maintain services so that people receiving treatment and their families get the best palliative care.
“We are always looking to the future to ensure our facilities continue meeting the needs of the community.
“This project is a commitment to end-of-life care with a modern ward that reflects the compassion of everything we do.”
A competitive tender process has been won by Thornwood Design and Build contractors based in Epping who have the task of modernising the ward to be ready by next March.
The company’s director Thomas Burton said: “Our experience with intricate healthcare projects combined with understanding of hospice needs has led to this partnership with a truly respected organisation.
“This scheme will benefit the community for many years to come.”
The improvements are aimed at helping those receiving palliative care and their families at the most difficult times and making sure the hospice team has the updated environment it needs.
The project is being paid for by the government as well as public donations and the hospice’s own financial reserves.
