Helen Henshaw only wanted a new carpet for her beloved Sunflower Living Well Centre at East Cheshire Hospice.
Her wish was granted and she got a lot more besides.
Helen Henshaw, who has worked at East Cheshire Hospice for 25 years.
A glimpse inside the plush new complex shows the scale of a stunning facility.
Helen, the centre manager, said: “All I asked for in the first place was to replace our dark carpet which wasn’t classed as dementia friendly and this is what we’ve ended up with!
“People with dementia can be reluctant to walk on dark colours. They feel it could be a hole or a puddle.
“The new centre is lighter and brighter and has opened everything up, using technology to give a new perspective.”
Staff toast the opening of the new look Sunflower Living Well Centre.
Helen has worked at the Hospice for 25 years. She said: “When I first came we had a small day care set up in one of the side rooms near the inpatient unit before opening up the main room in 2000.
“Now we have a built-in sound system and can dim the lights for relaxation sessions and project presentations on to a big wall.
“Before we were a general day care unit. Now we’re progressing into a wellbeing centre giving information and guidance on managing conditions.
Centre manager Helen Henshaw presents flowers to Lady Alexis Redmond MBE, Lord-Lieutenant of Cheshire, watched by Hospice Chief Executive Karyn Johnston.
“People were frightened and apprehensive of the word hospice. We want this to be a community hub accessible to all where people feel comfortable and relaxed.
“We’re offering services from the point of diagnosis and want family and social groups to use these facilities.”
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