A GYM in Bournemouth has opened its doors for free to visitors of patients receiving end of life care at Royal Bournemouth Hospital (RBH).

University Hospitals Dorset has teamed up with the Village Gym, located in the Village Hotel in Deansleigh Road, to allow friends, family and visitors of patients to use the showering and changing facilities at the gym for free.

As the gym is located across the road from RBH, this allows visitors to never be far away from their loved ones while taking care of themselves.

Village Gym manager Roxy Launder said: “Having a loved one who is receiving end of life care can be really stressful. We hope this service gives family members one less thing to worry about, and the peace of mind that they’re just over the road should they need to rush back to the hospital.

“We are so proud of this service and all of us here wanted to give back to our community.”

Bournemouth Echo:

RBH palliative care nurse, Rachel Targett, added: “This pass from the Village allows family members to not be far from the bedside in those important last moments. This makes a massive difference; after all we only have one chance to get it right.”

This service is unlimited for relatives of patients who may be in hospital for a period of time.

Visitors can find out more about the passes by speaking to the palliative care team.