Work has begun on extending palliative care facilities at Orange Hospital, with the creation of three new palliative care rooms with an adjacent kitchen, lounge and courtyard area.

Local palliative care action group, Orange Push for Palliative (Orange P4P) says the addition of three new rooms, increasing palliative care rooms from the existing two to five, will be a milestone for the Orange community.

But while the three new bed spaces are being fully funded by the NSW Government, Orange P4P is keen to refresh the existing two dedicated beds and lounge area on Medical Ward A , and is preparing to ramp up its fundraising efforts.

“We are encouraging individuals and organisations to come along with us on this fundraising journey to purchase items which will provide comfort to patients and families at a time when they need it most,” P4P president Jenny Hazelton said.

The fundraising will enable enhancements such as double-sized cuddle beds, soft furnishings, artwork and a garden courtyard as well as items for the children’s area.

“These value-added features bring warmth and dignity, contributing to connected and peaceful spaces for palliative care patients and their families,” Mrs Hazleton said.

With work on the new rooms due to be completed in January, Mrs Hazelton said there is no time to be lost in the fundraising efforts.

To that end, a fundraising launch by Orange P4P will be held at Kate Jones 119 on Tuesday, August 12 at 5.30pm.

If you would like to attend to find out more about the project, RSVP on 0415 466 394.

If you would like to donate, visit: www.op4p.org.au/donate