Today’s we’re giving you a sneak peak of the progress which is being made on a multi-million pound project to redevelop the children’s ward and outpatient department at Ipswich Hospital.

Contractors are busy working on phase one of the project, which will see 14 clinic rooms, a phlebotomy room, medical day case unit, accessible toilet, themed reception, waiting areas and parents’ room created by the end of this year. This is slightly later than first planned due to the challenges of carrying out a complex construction project while continuing to offer a full range of services to patients and their families.

Phase two will start in early 2023 when work begins on an extension, while the final phase will see a new ward entrance and further inpatient rooms, a school room and the children’s assessment unit created. The whole project is due for completion by summer 2024.

The work is being paid for with a combination of NHS investment from ESNEFT and funds raised through Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity’s Children’s Appeal.

The charity is now asking for support to raise the final £43,000 needed to complete the transformation. This will be spent on extra finishing touches, such as sensory equipment and play facilities, which will give people the best possible experience when they come to the department.