Our history

Salisbury Hospice is founded on a deep commitment to providing compassionate and personalised specialist palliative care to everyone in our local community who needs it. We work in collaboration with others to continually improve and expand the quality of end of life care for all.

For more than four decades, that commitment has been shaped by the generosity, vision and determination of local people.

From humble beginnings to the specialist hospice and community services we provide today, our history is one of partnership, compassion and an unwavering belief that everyone deserves the very best care at the end of life.

A vision for palliative care

Salisbury Hospice began as a shared vision among local residents and healthcare professionals who saw a better way to care for people with life-limiting illnesses. In January 1981, this vision took root when a small hospice team was established at the central health clinic in Salisbury. It later moved to a more permanent space in the old infirmary on Fisherton Street.

Community-led momentum

Between 1981 and 1982, the hospice movement in Salisbury gained vital momentum, thanks in large part to Derrick Alford’s Mayoral Appeal, which raised an impressive £26,000.

Early services focused on community-based palliative care, with initial funding from Macmillan Cancer Relief supporting a team of two community nurses and a social worker.

When that funding ended. the hospice carried on independently.

A dedicated hospice becomes reality

In 1987, a major milestone was reached with the opening of a purpose-built hospice on the grounds of Salisbury District Hospital. Initially a six-bed facility was built at a cost of over £1 million. The hospice became a lifeline for local individuals living with life limiting illness.

Growth continued in 1995, with two additional bedrooms added and new areas created to expand community care and bereavement support. That same year saw the opening of the Peter Gillam Support Centre named in honour of Dr. Gillam, to honour his instrumental role in establishing the hospice.

Continued growth and lasting impact

Growing capacity

A £356,000 extension increased the hospice’s capacity to 10 beds in 2003.

Alford legacy

The Alford Room was named to honour the exceptional support of Derrick and Vida Alford.

Cancer care

In 2005, the hospice donated £250,000 to the Pembroke Cancer Treatment Unit.

Community support

Introduced in 2009, the Midnight Walk helped fund operating costs.

Our history, your legacy

For generations, Salisbury Hospice has been there for local people and families when they need us most. The support of our community has helped shape our history and ensure compassionate end-of-life care remains available for future generations.

By remembering Salisbury Hospice in your Will, you can become part of that continuing story. A gift in your Will can help secure the future of hospice care, creating a lasting legacy.

Gift in wills