A sleek new reception at East Cheshire Hospice has created more of a hotel feel than a typical hospice.
The improvements were funded by a government grant made available to all hospices.
The project marked the latest stage of a modernisation programme which saw a new wing opened five years ago and the refurbishment of the Sunflower Living Well Centre in in 2024.
The Hospice had an April deadline to utilise the NHS money, intended for capital work only.
Hospice bosses brought forward projects earmarked for future budgets to take full advantage of the grant.
Around a third went on revamping reception, including new toilet facilities, with the remainder invested in the upgrade of facilities and equipment.
After consulting volunteer receptionists, the reception desk is now closer to the main entrance.
New flooring and LED lighting were added with flexible light colours to suit outdoor conditions. A screen under the window roof reflects heat, adding to comfort.
Volunteer Marilyn Pickering at the new reception.
The coffee bar has been revamped and there is extra seating space, including an acoustic pod for privacy.
New furniture and stands for information leaflets and handmade items, created by volunteers, are other features.
The grant also funded bed hoists, IT equipment to benefit patients, plus ovens, fridges and freezers which were due to be replaced.
Meeting rooms, including a skills lab, were also created.
The chapel and ward, including bedrooms and bays, have also had a makeover in the last two years.
Press-button automatic doors were installed, allowing patients more independence and mobility.
Michelle Walker-Brown in the spacious reception area at East Cheshire Hospice.
Michelle Walker-Brown, Head of Facilities and Hospitality, said: “The new reception area is a far more relaxing environment. Patients, visitors, staff and volunteers seem to like it.
“We wanted to create more of a hotel feel than a clinical setting and it’s now been turned into more of an information hub.
“The funds needed to be spent on an asset and had to make a difference. If we didn’t spend it, we’d lose it.
“For instance, we weren’t allowed to spend it on an extra nurse, or a wellbeing day.
“The main challenge was pulling the projects together quickly, but we succeeded.”
The Hospice has plans in place until 2038. Its remit requires such a long-term strategy.
The charity hopes to start work refurbishing its main kitchen and staff facilities, including changing rooms, break out and dining areas, within a year.