Supporters of a major expansion project being carried out by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) got to see the progress being made during a special hard hat tour of The Treehouse, in Ipswich.
Nearly 30 current and potential advocates were invited along, including philanthropists, corporate partners and representatives from trusts and foundations.
They were given a tour of the site, got to see inside the hospice and heard updates from EACH Chief Executive Kevin Clements, The Treehouse Service Manager Laura Jenkins and Trustee Iain Jamie.
Building work began in March, and the project is due to be completed by spring 2028.
The expansion includes a new hydrotherapy pool, wellbeing and therapies suite, a bigger, separate care activity area, a dedicated space for teenagers, an additional bedroom and a larger kitchen and dining area.
Kevin said: “I firmly believe this is one of the most important building projects currently happening in Suffolk.
“It’s about so much more than bricks and mortar. It’s about making sure every family who needs us feels seen, supported and can access our care – wherever they live and whatever their background.
“We’re providing more care year on year and know from all the data available to us that demand is constantly rising.
“By nearly doubling in size we’re futureproofing our site for generations to come.”
Planning permission was granted last November, and Gipping Construction was appointed as the main contractor in January.
The new hydrotherapy pool and suite, which will be far bigger than the current facility, will bring The Treehouse in line with EACH’s other two hospices, in Cambridgeshire (Milton) and Norfolk (The Nook).
The expansion will also include underfloor storage and more car parking spaces, while the new wellbeing and therapies suite will feature a dedicated private entrance for families.
“We take a great deal of pride in delivering world-class care at all three of our hospices,” added Kevin.
“However, we know from speaking to families that more space is desperately needed at The Treehouse.
“This expansion will give us that, have a long-term impact and create a place where families will receive exceptional hospice care for many years to come.”
EACH successfully secured enough support to begin the project, while also investing money from reserves.
It continues to fundraise to support both the expansion and the provision of vital day-to-day care and support for families.
