St Margaret’s to invest in hospice sites following Government funding boost

The hospice will receive £611,916 through the Government’s capital grant programme, administered by Hospice UK, which is designed to support investment in hospice buildings, infrastructure and digital systems. This funding is restricted to capital improvements and must be fully spent by March 2026.

For St Margaret’s, the grant presents an exciting opportunity to invest in its physical environment — improving the spaces where patients, families, staff and volunteers spend time every day — while continuing to focus charitable funds on the delivery of care.

Improving the welcome and patient experience

At Yeovil, the work will focus on enhancing arrival and waiting areas, creating a clearer and more welcoming experience for everyone who uses the building. This includes improvements that will make it easier for patients to check in and find the right reception, benefitting both St Margaret’s patients and those attending Somerset NHS Foundation Trust clinics based on the site.

At Taunton, the initial phase of work will focus on improvements within the In-Patient Unit, including redecoration, new flooring, and updated curtains. These initiatives are designed with the intention of enhancing both safety and the overall experience for patients and staff alike, helping ensure the environment remains calm, comfortable and fit for purpose.

Alongside this, the current bathroom used by the Sunflower Day Hospice service will be upgraded and converted into a more accessible wet room, supporting greater comfort and dignity for people using the service.

A second phase of work is planned for the summer, allowing further improvements to be made as part of the hospice’s wider programme of investment.

Working sensitively around care

All work will be carried out by contractors experienced in healthcare settings, with careful planning to minimise disruption. Where any changes may affect services appointments, or experience, patients and families will be contacted directly closer to the time with clear information about what to expect.

The hospice is committed to ensuring that care continues safely and compassionately throughout the programme of works.

An investment in the future

This funding forms part of the Government’s wider Plan for Change, supporting improvements to care in the community where people need it most.

While the grant supports improvements to buildings and infrastructure, it cannot be used for day-to-day running costs or staffing. St Margaret’s will therefore continue its fundraising activities, which remain vital to funding the care it provides across Somerset.