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Search the Public Notice PortalA respite centre in an Oxfordshire town will be built in three phases starting from 2026, it has been announced.
Alexandra House of Joy will be built at a site on Middle Wretchwick Farm off Wretchwick Way, in Bicester.
The charity, which registered with the Charity Commission in 2018, has tirelessly fundraised to build a 'centre of excellence' for adults with severe and profound learning disabilities, and for the primary caregivers who support them.
As of June, it has raised more than £950,000.
The charity is named after Alexandra Scott-Hunter, the daughter of Rachael and Ian, who suffered a brain injury when she was four days old and grew up with 'profound and severe' learning disabilities. Alexandra died of sepsis in 2019.
When Alexandra House of Joy registered with the Charity Commission in 2018, its ambition was to raise the full capital needed for a single-phase build, delivering all intended facilities at once.
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At that time, the projected cost for this build was £2.1 million, the charity said.
However, due to inflation, the COVID-19 pandemic, and associated supply chain challenges, the charity says the projected cost has now risen to about £3.6 million.
This week, it announced that it will pursue three-phase construction model, with phase one projected to begin in 2026.
Phase one will see a 'core operational' centre being built, which will include a four ensuite bedrooms, one assisted bathroom, and a communal dining area and fully equipped kitchen.
Phase two, constructed externally and with no disruption to the operation of phase one, will see two additional ensuite bedrooms, a hydrotherapy pool, and two further activity rooms being built.
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Finally, phase three will be the building of a hospice and end-of-life care, which will include two high-dependency hospice bedrooms with ensuite facilities, a family stayover flat, and a chapel of rest.
Calum Miller MP for Bicester and Woodstock recently visited Rachael and Ian at their home, to get an update on the new plans.
"Their dream of creating a centre offering vital respite is now within reach.
"From their own experience as carers, they truly understand what families need.
"This centre could have a significant impact for those using it.
"One example is the ambition to provide care during the day as well as overnight stays.
"It was a pleasure to hear about their inspiring plans for the different phases of this wonderful project.”
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In a statement Alexandra House of Joy said: "This phased plan represents a careful and deliberate response to changing circumstances.
"It honours the original promise made to our supporters and preserves the long-term goal of a centre that provides both short-term respite and holistic end-of-life care.
"We remain deeply grateful to our supporters, funders, volunteers, and community for walking alongside us."
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