Work starts on new mortuary facilities

Work has already begun on the new mortuary and bereavement centre at Rotherham Hospital and it is expected that the building will be ready for use at the end of this year.

The project has been funded by Rotherham Council and the Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust, which is responsible for providing healthcare for the borough’s population.

Trust bosses said it would provide up-to-date, safe and modern mortuary facilities and more convenient and improved facilities for bereaved relatives, friends and staff.

The new mortuary is being built in the hospital grounds, in Moorgate, and will include private interview rooms and a dedicated entrance and parking.

Hospital spokesman Matthew Lowry said this would help provide a supportive and calming environment for bereaved relatives and friends.

He added: “Here at the Trust we are committed to ensuring that people and their families are treated with respect and dignity in death, whether they are in hospital or the community.

“The new mortuary and bereavement centre will further support this commitment, as it will offer purpose-built, modern facilities in a sensitive environment that considers the needs of bereaved relatives, visitors and staff.”

The redevelopment, is part of the trust’s Healthcare of Tomorrow programme which it said was focused on improving services and facilities for patients, visitors and staff.

Under the programme a new operating theatre, theatres admissions unit and workplace and wellbeing centre for staff has been provided.

The main entrance to Rotherham Hospital has also been revamped as part of the project.