What's Happening?
Rachel Street, the new chief executive of Jersey Hospice Care, is planning to reopen the King Centre, a community facility that was closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Street, who took over the role in July 2025 following the retirement of former chief executive Mike Palfreman, aims to revitalize the centre to provide support and activities for islanders. The King Centre, located at the hospice site, was previously utilized for day services such as respite care, physiotherapy, and other complementary therapies. Currently, the centre is used for events and as office space for Family First, a charity assisting families who need to travel off-island for medical treatment. Street emphasizes the importance of community engagement and plans to assess the needs and desires of the community to determine the services the centre will offer.
Why It's Important?
Reopening the King Centre is significant as it represents a step towards restoring community services that were disrupted by the pandemic. The centre's revival could provide much-needed support and social interaction for residents, particularly those facing health challenges. By offering a space for respite and therapeutic activities, the centre can enhance the quality of life for many islanders. Additionally, the initiative reflects a broader trend of community organizations adapting and recovering from the impacts of Covid-19, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of such institutions in meeting public needs.
What's Next?
Rachel Street and her team are currently developing plans to determine the specific services and activities that the King Centre will offer. This involves engaging with the community to understand their needs and preferences. The outcome of this planning process will shape the future operations of the centre, potentially leading to a diverse range of programs that cater to various community segments. The reopening of the centre could also prompt other community organizations to evaluate and enhance their services post-pandemic.
