The community of Canowindra will soon benefit from refurbishments to palliative care facilities at the Soldiers Memorial Hospital thanks to a $50,000 boost from the NSW Government.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said the project will help bring comfort to people at the end of life, along with their families and carers. This vital service is often not available locally to those in country towns and Steph is sure the money will be put to good use.
“At Canowindra Soldiers Memorial Hospital, the money will help refresh a patient room, lounge, kitchenette, bathroom area and outdoor space,” Steph said.
“The refurbishments at the historic hospital will ensure that the building retains its heritage while still allowing a modern, comfortable facility for delivering palliative care services.”
This upgrade is one of 34 palliative care facilities to be refurbished over the next two years, at a total of $5.5 million across NSW.
“This work helps create a more home-like environment and brings dignity and comfort to patients, families and carers,” Steph said.
Jennifer Wythes, who spent time in the Hospital during the end-of-life for her mother, father and grandmother, has welcomed the news.
“The renovations to the palliative care area will certainly help the visitors in coping with a very difficult time,” Jennifer said. “It will remove the environmental stress and make it more of a conducive environment for people to come to grips with what they are facing. It will also help the patient, because if the visitors and the family are at ease, that helps the patient to be at ease.”