The community has come together to help provide new facilities for nurses to continuing caring for people with life-limiting illnesses through the coronavirus pandemic.

Local plumber Andy Barber, fitted a shower room free of charge at Farleigh new hospice in Maldon to enable nurses to wash between each home visit, reducing risk to both patients and staff.

With the help of a Facebook fundraising page an additional £700 was raised in just two days to help finish the project.

Andy said: "My mum works for Farleigh Hospice and she asked me if I would be able to get the new shower enclosure installed at their premises in Maldon.

"Chandler Materials Supplies in Chelmsford opened up their shop and donated items, and The Tile Warehouse in Maldon donated tiles and other key materials.

"I am also grateful to everyone who supported the project and donated to our online fundraising page, without you we would not have been able to finish the job and help our local nurses."

Staff at Maldon's Tesco branch also helped contribute towards the project.

Manager Anthony Waterman and Community Champion Rhian Oakley organised donation of towels, shampoo and snacks for nurses to stay energised.

Farleigh Hospice Chief Executive, Allison Stevens, said: "We are so grateful to Andy and everyone who supported this project. Thanks to you and the support of the Maldon community our nurses can continue to safely give high quality care to those living with a life-limiting illness.”

The Standard is highlighting businesses like Andy's with our #BackingEssexBusiness campaign. 

To donate to the Farleigh Hospice Community Appeal visit https://www.farleighhospice.org/donate/donate-online.