Patients Welcomed Back as Five Ashes Hospice Re-Opens Its Doors

Hospice in the Weald is once again welcoming in-patients to its Five Ashes hospice in East Sussex — complete with refreshed facilities, expanded specialist care, and a new name that better reflects the services now on offer.

In-Patient Care Returns to Five Ashes

After a period of consolidating services in Pembury due to staffing challenges, the Hospice’s Five Ashes site has reopened for in-patient care. Successful recruitment, enhanced clinical facilities and a renewed focus on supporting patients with complex health needs have made the return possible.

The building, formerly known as Cottage Hospice, will now be called Hospice in the Weald, Five Ashes. Nestled in the heart of the village with wide views across the Sussex Weald, the hospice is once again providing free, specialist palliative care to local families.

“The Care Is Fantastic” – Patients Share Their Experience

Colin, an 83-year-old retired police sergeant from Crowborough who has spinal and neck cancer, was recently admitted after being referred from hospital.

“The care I have experienced is fantastic,” he said. “The staff are brilliant, nothing is too much. I couldn’t keep anything down, but they’ve helped me start eating again. I was having terrible dreams before, but now I’m sleeping better.”

From his room, Colin enjoys watching wildlife and the sunrise. “It’s unbelievable,” he added, describing the peaceful ambience.

A Warm Welcome for Families Too

Colin’s wife Miriam said the difference in her husband since arriving has been remarkable.

“We had such a lovely welcome here,” she said. “It’s bright and airy, and everyone is so cheerful. Visitors can come and go easily — our family even brought their dog. Colin’s asked for his saxophone, which he hopes to play later. We are so relieved and grateful he is here.”

Janet Jackson of Frant, whose husband Paul is also receiving care at the hospice, echoed this sentiment.

“The staff are angels — they do everything so sweetly,” she said. “Paul feels very safe here. I’ve been able to stay overnight next to him, and it’s nothing like a hospital. It’s like being cared for in a lovely hotel.”

A Milestone for the Care Team

Kerry Norman, Head of In-Patient Care, said the team is thrilled to welcome patients back.

“We are delighted to offer in-patient care in this stunning building again. Everyone facing life-limiting illness deserves the best care, and it’s a privilege to provide that in such a wonderful environment.”

The refreshed facilities — including an upgraded oxygen store, improved medication preparation spaces, a commercial kitchen, and a new welcome desk — allow the specialist team to mirror the standard of care provided at the Hospice’s Pembury site.

A New Chapter for Hospice in the Weald

Chief Executive Nick Farthing explained the significance of the reopening.

“We’re pleased to offer in-patient care from Five Ashes once again. We’ve expanded our facilities so we can also support patients with more complex needs,” he said.

“The new name, ‘Hospice in the Weald, Five Ashes’, makes our services clearer for the community. Patients and families will know we now have two hospice sites offering expert end-of-life care.”

Both Five Ashes and Pembury are currently undergoing a major transformation programme to improve patient spaces for years to come. While work continues in Pembury, in-patients are being cared for at Five Ashes, with both sites set to offer in-patient care once the upgrades are complete.

Light up a Life – Community Remembrance Event

Supporters are warmly invited to a Light up a Life remembrance service at Hospice in the Weald, Five Ashes at 5pm on Saturday 13th December. Stars bearing the names of loved ones will be hung on the Christmas tree as part of the service.

For more information about this and other local or online services, contact the Fundraising Team on 01892 820 533 or fundraising@hospiceintheweald.org.uk.

About Hospice in the Weald

Hospice in the Weald provides free care for adults and children across East Sussex and Kent who are facing life-limiting and life-threatening conditions. The charity must raise £9 million each year to deliver this vital support.

For the latest news, events, and ways to get involved, visit hospiceintheweald.org.uk.