ST Cuthbert’s Hospice, Durham, has recently purchased ten high-tech recliner chairs for patients in the In-Patient Unit, thanks to a grant from the JGW Patterson Foundation.

The Unit provides 24-hour care for people in County Durham with life-limiting illnesses and makes no charge for the service.

Magda Pasak, physiotherapist at St Cuthbert’s, said: “The design of the chairs means they can be moved into many positions to help the patient get as comfortable as possible, and allow them to go from sitting to standing by themselves, which means they can help themselves more, even when they have very little energy. Retaining as much independence as they can means they retain their dignity which is of paramount importance to us all.”

Ann Cooke, patient services manager, said: “We are delighted to have been able to purchase the chairs thanks to a generous grant from this local foundation. We pride ourselves on providing a comfortable and welcoming environment for all and know that these new additions to the patient bedrooms will help greatly.”