A KIDDERMINSTER construction firm has been awarded the contract to help deliver a major expansion of a Worcester hospice.

Stepnell has been appointed to a £2.7million construction contract to extend and redevelop St Richard’s Hospice in Wildwood Drive

It forms part of a £5.3 million expansion programme, designed by Birmingham-based Associated Architects, aimed at meeting the increasing demand for hospice care and services locally.

Construction work on the year-long programme for the charity is just getting under way.

The redevelopment of the hospice building includes the remodelling of the main entrance and reception to create an improved layout; a two-storey extension linking the main building and the Snowdrop Centre and the creation of a two-storey extension to the west, connecting the Day Hospice and the In-Patient Unit.

Changes will also see the creation of larger rooms suitable for group-based exercises, a specialist studio and an occupational therapy kitchen.

There will also be more rooms for counselling and therapy as well as a multi-functional large central area which can be used for socialising, informal meetings and as a place for coffee, snacks and meals.

St Richard’s Hospice chief executive June Patel said: “We’re thrilled to get started on this exciting project which will mean we can better support our current patients and reach the unmet needs of thousands of local people in the future, offering the right care and support when they need it most.”

She added: “Currently areas of our hospice building in Worcester are bursting at the seams and we are struggling to respond to the ever-increasing number of patients and families who need our help.

“A bigger hospice, widespread redevelopment of the current building and a focus on more flexible, seven day a week care and support will mean we can help more people come to terms with their illness and its impact on their lives.”

John Rawlinson, Stepnell regional director, said: “We feel privileged to be working with St Richard’s on this hugely important project.

“The extension and redevelopment programme will provide the hospice and its patients with greater space and enhanced facilities, allowing it to further expand the already extensive range of services and support it provides for people with life-limiting illnesses and their families.”