Kingston Hospital NHS Foundation Trust announced the opening of a new Haematology Day Unit yesterday (April 10).

Kingston Hospital said that the Maxwell Thorne Haematology Day Unit would provide the best care for patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment.

The new space was officially opened on Thursday, March 21, by the family of the late Maxwell Thorne, who left a generous bequest to the hospital in his will, and the family of Sir William Rous, who the building where the unit is housed was named after when it opened 10 years ago.

Representatives of the hospital said that the expertly furnished day unit would not have been possible without those generous donations.

The new unit can accommodate 3000 patients every year and comprises 12 treatment chairs, a ‘Quiet Room’ for patients, a new waiting area and a roof top terrace for patients to sit outside after their treatment.

Sarah Evans, Clinical Director of Cancer Services at Kingston Hospital, said that the unit aimed to provide the most comfortable environment possible for patients and staff alike.

Ms Evans said: "The new Haematology Day Unit will provide a calming environment for patients while they receive treatment, and allow the hospital to deliver chemotherapy to more haematology patients every year.

"The new unit also gives staff a pleasant environment to work in, which boosts morale and in turn allows them to deliver the very best care to our patients."

The Trust Chairman Sian Bates, meanwhile offered her best wishes following the opening.

Ms Bates said: "I wish the Haematology Day Unit team all the best in their environment.

"They already provide an outstanding service to our haematology day patients and I look forward to seeing how the improved environment will enhance the patient experience even further as the number of patients requiring this service increases.

"I would like to thank everyone involved across the hospital that has made the new Haematology Day Unit a reality for us and our patients."