The Hospice Hive - Polytunnel Project

The Hospice Hive is taking root!

We’re thrilled to share that groundworks have begun on a brand-new outdoor nature therapy space at Hospice Isle of Man - the Hospice Hive.

This project will see a currently unused area of our gardens become a vibrant, accessible and sensory space for patients, families, volunteers, staff, Rebecca House children, and Isle Listen clients.

Phase 1 includes:

• A therapeutic polytunnel, designed with sustainability at its core
• Raised beds made from recycled materials
• Outdoor seating and a calming sensory garden

Phase 2 will see the addition of a warm, non-clinical cabin for year-round use — perfect for counselling, group sessions or simply relaxing with a brew. This space will be named in honour of Dr Hugh Revill, one of Hospice’s founding members, and brought to life through the support of an incredible community of donors, volunteers and partners.

• Built with love by Nigel Revill and volunteers
• Groundworks donated by the Downey family & associated companies
• Cabin generously discounted by Master Log Cabins
• Interior designs and over £13,000 fundraising led by Zurich’s summer interns, including funding by the Z Zurich Foundation
• Project funded by Manx Lottery Trust, Zurich Isle of Man, Z Zurich Foundation, and the Bernie McKinney Trust

At our recent turf-cutting ceremony, supporters across generations gathered to celebrate the beginning of something truly special. The highlights of the day were a poem written by MLT's Sarah Kelly and seeing our interns connect with Nadene Crowther, Hospice’s founder, in a moving moment of shared vision and purpose. Thank you to everyone bringing the Hospice Hive to life - a space to grow, connect and thrive.

 

Poem by Sarah Kelly:

A Hive to Thrive Today we gather, proud to see, A Hospice Hive soon here will be. From unused ground, new life will grow, With care and kindness in each row.

A polytunnel, strong and bright, To work, to rest, to bring delight. For patients, families, staff, and friends, A space where caring never ends.

So here we stand, with thanks and cheer, For all who brought this vision near. Let's cut the turf, begin the way, And watch the hive grow day by day.