New Family Rooms unveiled by High Sheriff of Cumbria

We were so excited to unveil our brand-new Family Rooms within our In-Patient Unit in Ulverston. These developments have created dedicated, welcoming spaces where families can spend time together while their loved ones receive care.

The newly refurbished rooms were formally unveiled by the High Sheriff of Cumbria, Shirley Fawcett, at a special event on 2nd June 2026, attended by funders, community representatives and hospice supporters.

The project saw the transformation of a former staff room into a new family space, alongside the refurbishment of an existing room. Funding was generously provided by Cumbria Community Foundation, Ulverston Town Council, Looking Good Feeling Great, and employees contributing through BAE Systems’ Give As You Earn scheme.

Guests at the opening included Rev Jackie Oakes, Ulverston Mayor Paul Smith, Deputy Mayor Catherine Howard, representatives from Ulverston Town Council, Rebekah Caine from BAE Systems, and Carly McCormack and Lisa McSweeney from Looking Good Feeling Great.

Following a ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees toured the new facilities and heard more about our work from Head of Clinical Care and Education Paula Rees and Healthcare Assistant Cathy Smithson.

Visitors also explored other areas of the hospice, met Bereavement Gardening Volunteers, and enjoyed afternoon tea at The Orangery.

Paula Rees said: “Previously, we had just one family room serving our eight in-patient beds. Because we have an open visiting policy, with no set visiting hours, no limits on visitor numbers and the option for loved ones to stay overnight, space could quickly become limited when several families were visiting at the same time.

“We also recognised that the existing facilities didn’t always meet the needs of younger visitors, particularly children coming to see a parent or close family member. Over time, the original room had become less welcoming and no longer reflected the environment we wanted to provide.

“These new spaces have been thoughtfully designed with families in mind. Both rooms include a bed, while one also features a PlayStation, games and familiar artwork from around the hospice. They are already making a real difference, giving families greater comfort, privacy and space to spend valuable time together.”

Shirley Fawcett, High Sheriff of Cumbria, added: “It is a privilege to officially open these wonderful new Family Rooms at St Mary’s Hospice.

“These spaces need to support people of all ages and circumstances. They should offer comfort and calm, while also providing somewhere families can come together, talk, reflect and support one another.

“This investment will have a lasting impact, helping local families at some of the most important moments in their lives for many years to come.”