A vision sparked by one man. A legacy of care that continues today.
Shaping a Hospice Future, with person-centred care, kindness, and compassion.
Halton Haven Hospice has been a pillar of community care in Halton since it opened in 1986. From the minute Dom Valdez had a dream to create a haven for patients, planting deep roots in Halton, to many years later where Halton Haven Hospice has continued to evolve to provide the best palliative and end-of-life care for those in our community.
2026 has brought many positive changes to the Hospice as we welcome new leadership, celebrate a good CQC rating, and provide relaxing renovated patient spaces.
Karen Allen, Chief Executive Officer shares:
“We are incredibly proud of the positive changes taking place across the Hospice. Over recent months we have worked hard to strengthen our services ensuring that the people and families who rely on us continue to receive the highest standard of palliative and end-of-life care. We are building a culture that values openness, learning, and excellence, and we are excited about the future.
While we continue to advocate, alongside hospices nationwide, for fairer funding to secure the future of hospice care, we remain optimistic and determined. Through the dedication of our staff, volunteers and supporters, we are moving forward and will continue to make a meaningful difference to our community.”
New team leading the way
Alongside Karen Allen being appointed Chief Executive Officer, the past year has seen many changes to the Trustee Board and Executive team, with individuals who are committed to delivering the highest standards of care and ensuring the future of the Hospice is bright.
Back Row, left to right: Kevin Matthews Director of Finance, Joe Mather-Burns Trustee, Dr Karen Pettitt Trustee, Debbie Hankin Trustee, Carol Smith Trustee, Gillian Corker Trustee, Dr Andrew Felton Interim Medical Director Front Row, left to right: Roxy Spencer Clinical Director/Registered Manager, Karen Allen Chief Executive Officer, Anna Warriner Director of Income Generation.
Chair of the Board, Alun Owen comments:
“With the support of my fellow Trustees, we have worked together to make significant positive changes to the work of the Hospice, over what has been a challenging period for many small charities. As we can all appreciate, many people in our community are facing financial challenges these days but the unwavering support that we receive from them, means that the Hospice has continued to deliver this essential palliative care.
Led by our talented Chief Executive, Karen Allen, the staff and volunteer teams have worked hard, ensuring that Halton Haven continues delivering the best palliative care that our families deserve.”
CQC report worth celebrating
In our latest CQC report the Hospice received a GOOD rating. With comments that reflect the commitment staff and volunteers have to ensuring everyone receives the care they deserve.
‘Leadership was compassionate and effective, with experienced leaders delivering sustainable care. Staff and volunteers were empowered to drive improvements, supported by an innovative culture.’
‘The service always treated people with kindness, empathy and compassion and respected their privacy and dignity. Staff treated colleagues from other organisations with kindness and respect.’
The full report can be read here: www.cqc.org.uk/location/1-134598723
New look, same heart.
The Hospice received a grant from Department of Health and Social Care to improve the space for patients and families. With the incredible support of Halton Housing and the community, the reception area and patient lounge have been renovated to create comforting and welcoming spaces, that reflect the values the Hospice commits to every day: Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence.
Jasmine, daughter of Angie who was a patient at Halton Haven Hospice comments:
“When our Mum was cared for by Halton Haven Hospice, our family often relied on the cozy lounge and conservatory as a home-from-home. On revisiting the Hospice in recent weeks during our fundraising work, we have had the privilege of seeing the tremendous efforts that have gone into giving the lounge, the conservatory and the reception area the makeover they deserve. The things that stood out to us were the media wall, where patients and their loved ones can have a relaxing homely time together, the play area for the children, plenty of room in both the lounge and conservatory for multiple groups to relax in, and of course the welcoming atmosphere of the beautiful new reception area. The memorial tree greets you and shows exactly what Halton Haven Hospice provides: treating patients and their loved ones with incredible kindness, honour and respect. We are so happy that Halton Haven Hospice has been given such a lift, they truly deserve it.”
Lounge Before Photos
Lounge After Photos
As Halton Haven Hospice steps into this new chapter, we hope to celebrate where the Hospice has come from, bringing the community and one man’s dream with us on this journey, to continue to provide the best palliative and end-of-life care. Halton Haven Hospice wouldn’t be possible without the incredible community spirit that runs through its roots. Thank you to everyone who has walked by our side, and we hope the community will continue to walk by our side into the future.
If you have any previous memories or connection to the Hospice, we would love to hear from you. Email marketing@haltonhaven.co.uk
We are also delighted to offer guided Hospice tours, giving you the opportunity to see these enhancements for yourself. From the refreshed reception area to the inviting patient lounge, come along to Tea at Three on 22nd August to have a tour. Event entry is FREE, for more information visit: Tea at Three – Halton Haven Hospice