Visitors of patients receiving end of life care are now able to use the facilities at the nearby Village Gym – at no charge.

The free pass allows friends and family to use the showering and changing facilities at the gym, including fresh towels. As the gym is located across the road from RBH, Royal Bournemouth Hospital, the convenience allows visitors to never be far away from their loved ones while taking care of themselves.

Roxy Launder manager of the Village Gym, 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.”

RBH palliative care nurse, Rachel Targett, said: “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.