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Hospice
Marlborough exists due to the care and effort of many people.
Three key groups involved in its establishment, success and
continued development are the Marlborough Hospice Trust, the
Marlborough Hospice Foundation, and The Salvation Army.
The Salvation Army is
contracted by the Nelson Marlborough District Health Board to
provide quality palliative care.
Together these groups form Hospice Marlborough.
History
Prior to 2003, hospice services for Marlborough were delivered by
the Nelson Marlborough District Health Board. After community
consultation it was agreed that a purpose built facility and
hospice service was needed in our region. The Marlborough Hospice
Trust was established to develop a community fund for
establishing, maintaining and developing a hospice service.
Over $1.5 million dollars was raised to build the current hospice
building, situated within the grounds of Wairau Hospital, and
owned by the Marlborough Hospice Trust. It was opened in November
2003 and included a 4 bed inpatient unit. The Salvation Army was
chosen to be the service provider and continues in this role
today.
The Foundation secures the future of Hospice Marlborough and
associated palliative care services in Marlborough. Donations are
sought for its capital fund, the income from which is applied to
the operating costs and capital needs of the hospice. The
Foundation was established in 2005 and is a registered charity.
In 2005, the hospice took over community palliative care nursing
from the Nelson Marlborough District Health Board. At any one
time, there can be approximately 60 patients on the hospice
palliative care programme. The vast majority of these people are
being cared for in their own homes.
Hospice Marlborough services have been well received by the
community. Demand for palliative care is increasing and a major
extension project was completed in October 2009 to meet the need.
The in-patient unit now has six beds and improved facilities
including a purpose built quiet room and additional working areas
for staff and volunteers. |