A new dedicated unit providing patients with dignity, comfort, and compassion at the end of life has officially opened at a Norfolk hospital.
The Peddars Way Unit at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn is designed for those who are too unwell to be transferred elsewhere.
Named after the historic trail which weaves through Norfolk and Suffolk, it offers five en-suite rooms in a peaceful environment away from the main hospital wards where patients can spend their final hours and days of life surrounded by loved ones.
The £1.6 million purpose-built facility was entirely funded by donations to the hospital’s QEHKL Charity.
It was officially opened by Nicola Ellis, Chief Executive of Tapping House, who unveiled a commemorative plaque in recognition of the hospice’s initial role in advising on the unit’s development.
Among the 40 guests at the ceremony was Mayor of King’s Lynn, Paul Bland along with representatives from the Norfolk & Waveney Integrated Care System and Healthwatch Norfolk.
What is in the unit?
Peddars Way features five bedrooms named Blossom, Lavender, Meadow, Oak, and Willow, each with calming lighting and bespoke artwork commissioned to reflect the beauty and tranquillity of nature.
Alice Webster, Chief Executive of The QEH, said:
“The Peddars Way Unit represents a significant step forward in how we care for our patients and their loved ones. It provides the comfort, dignity, and compassion that are so vital in a patient’s final hours and days, ensuring families can spend those precious moments together in peace and privacy.
“I am deeply moved by the incredible generosity of our community, which has brought this vision for our QEHKL Charity to life. From the League of Friends, the thoughtful donations and legacies, to the spirited fundraising events like the 26-mile Peddars Way Walk in September—each contribution has made this a reality, and I am profoundly grateful.
“I also want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our exceptional palliative care teams. Their unwavering passion and expertise have been the cornerstone of shaping this facility. Additionally, I extend my thanks to our invaluable partners, including Tapping House, whose insights have been instrumental throughout this journey.”
