Baby hospice submits planning application for new home

Liverpool-based baby hospice, Zoe’s Place, has submitted a planning application for a new facility.

The proposed single-storey extension will transform the former bowling green at Hayman’s Green, West Derby, into a first-class, purpose-built, facility for Zoe’s Place families.

Designed by Mersey Design Group, the new Liverpool hospice will provide an environment created with the needs of its babies and their families at its heart.

In addition to the central hospice space and four bedrooms for up to eight children, Zoe’s Place’s new Liverpool home will include a hydrotherapy pool, sensory and soft play spaces, family residential facilities, two Snowdrop (bereavement) Suites, accessible bathrooms and outdoor spaces for play, relaxation and reflection.

The hospice will also include specialist rooms for families to access holistic therapies and counselling.

However, Zoe’s Place needs to raise £3.5m for the project through its newly launched Capital Appeal before its current lease on Yew Tree Lane, West Derby expires in 2025.

Michael Cunningham, Zoe’s Place trustee and former architect at Mersey Design Group, said: “Being able to bring my architectural experience to my new trustee role at Zoe’s Place at a time when we’re launching this ambitious project is an honour and I’m determined to see these plans brought to fruition.

“Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed the impact of designing spaces that not only serve the practical needs of a building but also embrace the spirit of those within and the work that they’re doing.

“Since joining the Zoe’s Place team, I’ve experienced the outstanding care, support and comfort that is offered to the babies, children and families that come through these doors and my mission is to keep those doors open for many years to come.”

Zoe’s Place delivers respite, palliative and bereavement care to children aged 0-five years and their families.

It will be launching several fundraising initiatives throughout the Capital Appeal, the first being ‘The 150’, which encourages 150 businesses to sign up and donate £1,000 through their own fundraising efforts.

Aimee Clare, Capital Appeal Lead at Zoe’s Place, said: “Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice is an incredibly special place, providing specialist and essential care to our babies and their families at a time when they need it the most.

“It’s a place of happiness, relief and is a true lifeline for those who need it, allowing families to be together and experience the joy of childhood, which can easily be taken for granted by many of us.

“I’m urging the business community, our generous supporters and new fundraisers to activate and help us at this pivotal time so we can build a new home and continue to provide outstanding and specialist care and support to the children and families who really need us.”