The background to Safe Haven

In September 2004, our then landlord – Birkenhead and Wallasey Primary Care Trust – served notice that because of modernisation plans for St Catherine’s Hospital in Birkenhead, our tenancy agreement within the complex would not be renewed after Spring 2005.

Although our long-term aim was to relocate to a purpose-built facility in any case, the untimely news came as a brisk wake-up call – focusing our minds on the need to secure a suitable location, especially with the clock ticking! To facilitate this, it was imperative that a structured relocation and funding strategy be agreed and put into place quickly. Its outcome saw the launch of the WCHS Safe Haven Appeal.

The fundraising target set at the start was very ambitious; £1 million! This not only accounted for the acquisition of a suitable location, but also covered the necessary structural alterations and refurbishment to convert the property into an efficient and patient-focused facility. With the tremendous support of our patients, friends and supporters, an exhaustive programme of fundraising events helped us to hit key milestones along the way. At the same time, publicity and media attention for the appeal was generated at every opportunity.

The year-long initiative helped to secure the critical financial resources that paved the way for the joyous day when patients and staff could finally ‘move house’.

Solas – our new home

Named Solas – a Gaelic word meaning ‘happiness’ – our purpose-built day-care centre in Ashburton Road, Claughton was opened in early 2006. Originally a substantial 1930s detached property in a secluded garden, the house was painstakingly converted to comprise 12 therapy treatment rooms; a nutritional training kitchen; an educational training suite – plus a dedicated administration and support area. The surrounding garden also offers a relaxing ‘sanctuary’ for patients, their families and visitors to enjoy.

Whilst the primary aim of the appeal has been realised, the ongoing efforts to secure day-to-day funding and revenue continue. Because we do not charge patients for our services, like most charitable organisations we have to rely mostly on the kindness and generosity of individuals and corporate donors. In fact, by having particular therapy suites named after them, some of our more significant sponsors have been honoured ‘in perpetuity’ at Solas.

If you feel you are in a position to make a financial donation, your kindness will go such a long way. You’ll not only be supporting a dedicated team of therapists in their daily work to ease the physical and emotional problems of cancer patients of all ages, but most importantly of all, you’ll be providing real hope, comfort and strength to some of the most deserving and courageous of people. If you can help us, please contact WHCS on 0151 652 9313. We’d be delighted to talk to you about how your donation will count.