Wigan & Leigh Hospice has been caring for local people for over 40 years. It began in 1977, when a GP from Shevington was moved by the experience of a patient who died alone. Inspired to make a difference, he and members of the Rotary Club of Wigan formed a plan to create a local hospice. In 1978, a steering committee was established, and a public meeting attended by 450 people highlighted the community’s deep need for hospice care. From these beginnings, a lasting legacy of compassion and support was born.
In 1981, our very first service began: a community-based team supporting people in their own homes. Land was also purchased in Poolstock, Wigan for what would become our first hospice building.
By 1983, the building was nearly complete and our first matron was appointed, along with other staff.
The hospice opened its doors in August 1983 with just five beds, funded entirely by voluntary contributions. Two months later, the local health authority agreed to support a further five beds, and by early 1986, the Inpatient Unit had grown to 12 beds.
The hospice was officially opened on Wednesday 5 December 1984 by the Countess of Westmorland, President of the National Society for Cancer Relief – marking the beginning of a legacy built on compassion, community and care.
As demand for hospice care grew, it became clear that a new, purpose-built facility was needed. Hindley was chosen for its central location, and in 1994, HRH the Duchess of York launched a capital appeal to support the build.
In December 1997, the new hospice opened its doors, offering modern facilities including an Inpatient Unit, day hospice, complementary therapy suites and counselling rooms.
In 2012, two additional beds were added to the Inpatient Unit, bringing the total to 14.
Since our early days in Poolstock, our services have continued to grow and evolve to meet the changing needs of our community.
