Thousands of people have signed a petition to save the Michael Sobell Hospice which was launched just a few weeks ago.
Terry Dean’s wife Jane died from bowel cancer four years ago and spent her final few days at the hospice.
After he learnt that the NHS had decided to relocate the inpatient unit into two main wards in Mount Vernon Hospital earlier this month because of structural issues, he launched the campaign which has been gathering pace ever since.
Earlier this month, Terry and others presented the petition to bosses at Mount Vernon Hospital where the hospice is based.
After he had presented the petition, Terry said that he and all the signatories deserve to know what is really going on.
He commented: “We want answers as to why they claim that the building is no longer fit for purpose whereas the Hillingdon Foundation Trust, who own the building, are unaware of any structural problems – they spent a small fortune on having it underpinned only last year.
“We are shocked and dismayed that end-of-life patients have been moved into the same wards as patients receiving active cancer treatment. The patients obviously have differing needs so this is the last thing that should happen and is totally unacceptable for the patients, their families and their loved-ones.
“We want assurances from the East and North Hertfordshire Trust that, in future, they will work in line with the NHS End of Life Care Strategy which states ‘Good Primary Care Trusts will wish to ensure that hospices are fully integrated in the strategic planning for end of life care services.”
A spokesman for the Michael Sobell Hospice Charity Board of Trustees said the decision to relocate the inpatient service was made in the best interests of palliative and end of life patients and the care they needed.
She added: “The re-location was agreed as a result of current concerns about the Hospice unit’s environment, and whilst a permanent and more suitable solution is sought. The Day Care services at Michael Sobell Hospice remain unchanged. The Charity and NHS Trust are meeting with relevant stakeholders and the community to consult on a future model of care that delivers the best possible service and support for patients, their families and carers and the wider community.
“Michael Sobell Hospice Charity continues to provide funding for relocated patients and 100 per cent funding for the Hospice Day Centre.
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