Martin House Children’s Hospice Unveils £21.9 Million Renovation on June 5th

On Friday 5th June, a significant milestone was celebrated in Yorkshire as the Martin House Children’s Hospice unveiled its newly renovated facilities after a major £21.9 million redevelopment project named THE BUILD. The ribbon was cut by Sir Gareth Southgate, the England football manager and a dedicated ambassador for Martin House. This special event brought together families who benefit from the hospice's services, staff, supporters, and community partners, marking a new chapter in the care provided to children with life-shortening conditions.

The Build of Martin House

Martin House Children’s Hospice, located in Boston Spa, has undergone extensive renovations aimed at modernising its facilities to better serve children and their families. The redevelopment project, which began in autumn 2023, was driven by a public fundraising appeal that highlighted the community's commitment to improving the lives of local families. The new facilities include:

• Hydrotherapy Pool: A space designed for therapeutic swimming, which can be beneficial for children with various medical conditions.

• Immersive Sensory Room: A calming environment filled with lights, sounds, and textures to stimulate the senses, helping children relax and engage.

• Enhanced Clinical Spaces: Upgraded areas to provide better medical care and support.

• Recording Studio: A creative space where children can express themselves through music and art.

• Education Centre: A facility dedicated to training healthcare professionals in specialist palliative care.

Why This Matters

The improvements at Martin House are crucial as they reflect the evolving needs of children receiving hospice care. Thanks to advancements in medical care, many children are living longer with complex conditions, necessitating more specialised support. The new facilities aim to provide a more comfortable and effective environment for both the children and their families.

Bethany Harrison, a mother whose son Thomas is supported by Martin House, shared her thoughts on the new developments. “We wouldn’t cope without Martin House. They put you and your child at the centre, giving us that extra level of support - it’s just like another member of the family to help us,” she said. Thomas, who has a rare genetic disorder called ATR-X Syndrome, benefits from the care and respite provided by the hospice. Bethany expressed her excitement about the new hydrotherapy pool, saying, “Because of THE BUILD, we will have our first chance to swim with Thomas as a family.”

Community Support and Impact

Every year, Martin House supports over 550 children and young people with life-shortening conditions across West, North, and East Yorkshire, along with around 200 bereaved family members. The services provided are free of charge, available 24/7, and largely funded through voluntary donations and fundraising efforts. This community-driven approach ensures that families in need can access vital support without financial burden.

Sir Gareth Southgate spoke about the importance of Martin House, saying, “Seeing firsthand the difference Martin House makes for children - giving them somewhere to escape and feel supported - has really stayed with me.” His words underline the vital role the hospice plays in transforming the lives of local families, offering them a safe haven during challenging times.

Future of Care in Yorkshire

Clair Holdsworth, the Chief Executive of Martin House, highlighted the emotional significance of the launch event, stating, “THE BUILD is so much more than bricks and mortar. It’s about creating a modern, family-focused hospice that matches the extraordinary quality of care our teams provide every day.” The upgraded facilities are designed to ensure that families feel welcomed and supported, providing a nurturing environment for children with complex health needs.

Phil Murphy, Chief Marketing Officer at HARIBO UK, which played a significant role in funding the redevelopment, remarked, “Together, we’ve helped create a lasting legacy that will transform lives, create precious memories, and allow the families that Martin House support to enjoy some moments of joy together, now and for years to come.”

The opening of the new facilities at Martin House signifies a hopeful future for children and families facing life-shortening conditions in Yorkshire. The hospice is now better equipped than ever to meet these families' needs, ensuring that they receive the compassionate care and support necessary during difficult times.