The Longhouse Marks 10 Years of Vital Care for North Devon
UPDATE: The Longhouse in Holsworthy has just celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of essential support for local patients facing life-limiting illnesses. The facility hosted a special open evening to highlight its significant contributions to the North Devon community, inviting all residents to learn about the care and services available.
Since its opening in September 2015, The Longhouse has transformed access to hospice care for those in rural North Devon. Previously, patients faced long and stressful journeys to Barnstaple, but now more than 15,000 sessions of care have been provided locally. This includes a range of services such as specialist nurse consultations, complementary therapies, and counselling.
Stephen Roberts, Chief Executive of North Devon Hospice, stated, “Ten years ago, we knew that people in Holsworthy and the surrounding areas were struggling to access the care they needed.” He emphasized the role of community fundraising in making the facility possible and sustaining its operations over the years.
The anniversary event featured guided tours, talks from the Supportive Care team, and a celebratory cake, showcasing the impact of community support on the lives of local patients. Heidi Orton from the hospice’s fundraising team remarked, “The evening was a fantastic way to showcase how vital community support is and to show the real impact their fundraising has for local patients and families.”
A local resident who attended the event expressed surprise at the depth of care provided, saying, “It’s a beautiful building, but I never realized how much of an impact it has on our community.” This sentiment reflects a growing awareness of the vital services offered at The Longhouse, further solidifying its role as a cornerstone of support in Holsworthy.
As The Longhouse celebrates this important milestone, it continues to be a beacon of hope and care for those in need. The community is encouraged to stay engaged and support ongoing fundraising efforts to ensure that this vital resource remains accessible to all who require it.
For future developments, residents are urged to participate in events and initiatives that bolster the hospice’s mission, reinforcing the message that no one in North Devon has to face their healthcare journey alone.
