Work has begun on a £1.3m state-of-the-art Young Adults accommodation at St Oswald’s Hospice, Gosforth, Newcastle.

The project will offer more independence to young adults with progressive, life-limiting conditions, and is being constructed by Chester-le-Street firm, McCarrick Construction.

The process is estimated to take 40 weeks.

A 'ground-breaking' event took place yesterday (June 27) to mark the commencement of work on the self-contained facilities.

Holly Smith, acting matron of Children and Young Adult Services and Edward McMahon, a beneficiary of the hospice's services, donned hard hats and picked up spades to mark the start of the project.

Edward McMahon, who benefits from the hospice's services, and Holly Smith, matron, Children and Young Adults ServiceEdward McMahon, who benefits from the hospice's services, and Holly Smith, matron, Children and Young Adults Service (Image: Supplied)

Ms Smith said: "This new accommodation is greatly needed for young adults in our region, as many of them are happily living beyond their expected years due to medical advances.

"Creating this new, more independent accommodation, which will increase capacity and provide more autonomy for young adults in a safe, supported and caring environment is just wonderful for us all."

The accommodation will include two new bedrooms, a garden area, a living space and an accessible bathroom and wet room.

Mr McMahon, 20 of Hexham, has been going to the hospice since 2010 for short breaks.

His mum, Sarah, said: “The new Young Adults Accommodation is so important because there are very few places for young adults like Edward to go.

"Some of the young adults might end up in old people’s residential homes, which is not great for them – or the other residents.

“Edward really enjoys his time at St Oswald’s Hospice, and it means that when he comes for short breaks, I can relax, and I don’t worry because I know he’s being so well taken care of.

“When Tim, Edward’s Dad died, the staff at St Oswald’s Hospice were so supportive.

"They took Edward for extra nights, so I could sort out things at home.

"They’ve always been a lifeline to our family."

Funding for the project is primarily from the Winifred Futter Will Trust.

Chris Potts, of the Winifred Futter Will Trustees, said: "Miss Winifred Futter left a legacy with the desire to help people across the region.

"Win’s memory will live on through this fantastic, and much needed, new facility."