St Oswald's Hospice in Newcastle is celebrating 40 years of providing care and support to the North East community. Since opening on July 7, 1986, as a 10-bed inpatient unit, the hospice has expanded its services to support people of all ages, from children to the elderly.
Growth and Expansion
Officially opened in 1987 by Princess Alexandra, the hospice has continually evolved to meet the needs of those it serves. Key milestones include a dedicated day service building in 1997, a children's services building in 2003, an outpatient suite in 2009, young adult services in 2012, a stand-alone bereavement centre in 2013, the Focus on Living Centre in 2014, and the Young Adults Accommodation building completed in 2025.
Steph Edusei, Chief Executive of St Oswald's Hospice, said: "We have learnt so much about how we can change. People have changed, what their grandparents wanted is very different to what they want."
Community Impact
The hospice provides free services to the community, with referrals accepted from any health care professional. It focuses on enabling patients to live life to their full potential through trips, activities, and special equipment. The charity has been visited by celebrities including Kieran Trippier, Denise Welch, Tim Healy, Paul Gascoigne, and royals such as Princess Diana in 1992.
Angela Egdell, Director of Care Service, was one of the first 40 nurses in 1986. She said: "40 years ago, I walked through the doors of St Oswald's Hospice as a recently qualified nurse. We spent those first few weeks learning about palliative care, getting to know one another and getting lost in the building. Looking back, it was a mix of fun and nerves as we all realised how little we felt we knew."
Personal Stories
Linsey Preston, who waved flags at the hospice's opening as a child, later became a service user when her daughter Gracie contracted a virus at six weeks old, developing encephalitis. The family received support from the children's service. Linsey said: "Those early weeks were really frightening. Every day felt precious and we came here for help, respite and support. The team were amazing. They helped me learn how to look after Gracie and supported us with lots of questions. It made such a difference having people who understood."
Gracie, now 16, has enjoyed music therapy, the sensory room, and trips out, including surfing. Linsey also received support when her father was diagnosed with cancer 13 years ago, describing the hospice as a 'lifeline'.
Looking Ahead
The hospice's first charity shop opened in Gosforth in 1989, and it has since hosted art trails featuring Snow Dogs, Elmers, Shaun the Sheep, and Peter Rabbits. Angela Egdell reflected: "Over the years, I've seen the hospice grow and evolve, expanding services and developing new ways to provide care, wellbeing support and specialist help to those in need. Despite all the changes and challenges, I'm proud that the hospice has always stayed true to its original purpose - providing compassionate care and support for patients and families."
As a charity, St Oswald's relies on community support and funding to continue its services. Steph Edusei said the most meaningful feedback from families is: "I didn't know what care was until I came here." Linsey expressed gratitude: "I'm so grateful it's been my support system it's always been there for me. I want to thank them so much from me and other families."
