A Zoe Place Baby hospice that opened nearly 30 years ago says it will close its doors by the end of the year. Zoe’s Place trustees announce that their Liverpool hospice will be closed by the end of 2024.
Zoe’s Place has supported children and their families affected by life-threatening conditions since 1995.
Zoe’s Place had hoped to build a new 3.5m Pound hospice nearer to its present location in Yew Tree Lane, Liverpool.
A statement from one of the trustees said the time taken to get planning permission had left insufficient time to make the building.
The personnel also include that a significant rise in the projected costs and the challenge of raising funding in the present economic climate means there are insufficient funds available.
The planning permission for the new hospice building was granted last month. The trustees said that the decision had been made with huge sadness.
They also added that with only nine months before the charity’s lease for New Tree Lane ends, there is less time and money to relocate to a new home elsewhere.
The executive trustee, Joan Stainsby said that they are sorry to be sharing such sad news with the people who supported Zoe Place Liverpool including their staff and supporters.
She also added that Liverpool was where Zoe’s Place originated and remains close to their hearts forever.
She added that this had been an incredibly difficult decision and one that they have worked tirelessly to avoid. Unfortunately, there is simply no other option to choose for them.
The charity said that the organization would work closely with parents to find alternative support and discussions had been held with Claire House, Bebbington, Wirral. It also has a children’s hospice and the local NHS.
At present, Zoe’s Place can house four children under the age of five, and the new building would have housed six.
The Zoe Place Hospice was founded by former chairman, Professor Jack Scarisbrick. The idea of a hospice significantly for babies and infants was born after he identified those born with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions.
So, their families potentially needed specialist facilities where their children could receive alleviating care.
According to the website of the organization, the name Zoe’s Place was chosen as Zoe is the Greek word, meaning “Gift of Life”. It provides care for seriously ill tots up to the age of two. They offer all the services for free.
The interest in Zoe’s Place Liverpool proves that many parents out there need care for their sick babies.
The founder was honoured with an MBE in 2015 for his dedication and service to children confronting life-threatening challenges.
