The stroke unit at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, in King's Lynn, is set to get a £265,000 makeover to make it more 'homely'.

Plans for the 29-bed ward include the creation of a reception along with two meeting rooms to provide greater privacy for staff and families.

The ward's revamp will also include new decoration, flooring and lighting – the toilets will also be refurbished.

Hospital chief executive Dorothy Hosein said the ward uplift would not only help patients, but staff as well.

She said: 'There is a great family atmosphere on West Raynham ward as patients can stay with us for some time during their rehabilitation.

'That is why it is important that the environment is right. We are hoping this uplift will help patients, making it a bright place for staff to work in. This is the latest in a series of building projects, which are helping us on our journey to becoming an outstanding trust in all areas of patient care.'

She also thanked the Friends of the Stroke Unit for its continued support with fundraising.

Matron/stroke lead Milena Krasinska-Chavez said: 'Many of our patients are with us for a long time so I feel that it is important to ensure the ward has a family and homely feel.

'I believe the ward uplift is going to give our patients hope for their recovery. If you are surrounded by bright colours it can help to stimulate some recoveries. Our aim is to start therapy almost as soon as a patient arrives and the introduction of wi-fi will aid that.

'This new environment is going to mean a lot to our patients, their families as well as the staff.'

Sara Betsworth, the Stroke Association's regional head of operations in the East of England, said: 'We're thrilled to hear that the hospital is having a refurbishment which in turn will make for a better patient experience for local stroke survivors. We look forward to seeing the newly refurbished stroke ward.'

Work will start on the unit revamp later this month and visitors are advised that staff and patients will be moving to Necton ward on Friday, August 26, for the estimated 10-week renovation scheme.

Recent improvements to the hospital's estate include the £3.2m theatre renovation project, £1m refurbishment of the X-r ay department along with the creation of the breast unit and the Waterlily Unit, which is the midwife-led birthing centre.

What do you think of the proposals? Email david.bale2@archant.co.uk