A ward at Sherborne's Yeatman Hospital has been recognised by the Gold Standards Framework (GSF) for its exceptional provision of end-of-life care.

The Willows was named Hospital Ward of the Year by the GSF, a national programme dedicated to improving care for people in their final days. The award acknowledged the team's commitment to giving patients and their families the best possible experience, supported by the sympathetic, state-of-the-art facilities on offer.

Julie Armstrong-Wilson, chief nurse at GSF, said: "What marks out The Willows is the extraordinary lengths staff have gone to in creating the very best possible environment, which really is above and beyond what is to be expected in a community hospital. Not only have they really grasped the ethos of GSF, but they have also dedicated significant resources, time and consideration to supporting families as well as their patients. Their holistic approach really is an example to all."

Run by Dorset Healthcare, the hospital has had a dedicated end-of-life care suite for several years, complete with its own bedroom, en-suite bathroom, kitchen, living area and garden.

In 2018, a donation from the hospital's Friends group funded the development of a second purpose-built suite, with sensory lighting and a music system. The new space is named after the hospital's longest-serving matron Ada Kearvell, who was in the post from 1908 to 1934.

The Ada Kearvell suite has recently been expanded to include its own garden, largely funded by patients who left money in their wills. Current matron Anne Hiscock said: "The garden is a beautiful space where patients can be wheeled into on their bed or sit outside on the chairs. They can take in all the different smells from the lavender, honeysuckle and roses that have been planted while enjoying the fresh air."

She added: "We would like to give our sincere thanks to the patients and families that have helped us to create this garden, as well as the Friends of the Yeatman."

Gold Standards Framework offers training to all those providing end-of-life treatment, to ensure better experiences for patients and establish standards of care. The organisation has training centres across the country, including Weldmar Hospice in Dorchester.