'A hugely proud moment' - Boston hospice holds official opening of overnight accommodation for families (IN PICTURES)

​Butterfly Lodge was officially opened at the Rowan Way site on Thursday, February 19.

The facility offers relatives a space where families can rest, eat and sleep – free of charge.

The idea of creating overnight accomodation for relatives has been in discussions for more than 10 years, a spokesman for the charity behind the hospice, the Butterfly Hospice Trust, said.

Construction of Butterfly Lodge began in March of last year, spurred on by heartfelt feedback from a public consultation exercise in early 2023. This revealed – in the trust’s words – a ‘clearly expressed need’ for such a facility.

It includes: three private en-suite bedrooms, with one being fully adapted for accessibility; a shared communal space; on-site parking; and around-the-clock access to the hospice

Funding for the new facility was provided by The Butterfly Hospice Trust, Lincolnshire Freemasons, the Worth Waynflete Foundation, and Boston League of Hospital Friends.

Local businesses including Cammacks, Dunelm and Boston Electrical also contributed to internal fittings.

Heidi Freeman, chief executive officer of the Butterfly Hospice Trust, said: “This is a hugely proud moment for everyone involved. The Butterfly Lodge is now open and ready to make a real difference to families who need to stay close to their loved ones.

“Knowing they have a comfortable, safe place to rest nearby brings enormous reassurance at what is often a very emotional time. We are incredibly grateful to all the organisations, donors and supporters who helped make this possible.”

Built by Frithville-based ST Portess & Son, Butterfly Lodge also reflects the hospice’s commitment to sustainability. The building is fully electric, with no gas supply, reducing environmental impact and removing the need for ongoing boiler servicing.

Operations manager Lee Pierce said: “To see the Butterfly Lodge now open is incredibly rewarding. This facility gives families the chance to stay close, take a break and recharge without leaving the site, which is so important during difficult circumstances. It’s a project everyone involved can be extremely proud of and one that will benefit families for many years to come.

“The opening of the Butterfly Lodge marks an important step forward in the hospice’s mission to provide holistic support, not only to guests, but also to the families who walk alongside them.”

Anyone who would like to learn more about the Butterfly Lodge or support the hospice, is asked to visit: www.butterflyhospice.org.uk/butterfly-lodge