Oakhaven Wellbeing

Oakhaven Wellbeing is a support centre at The Coates Centre, within the grounds of Oakhaven Hospice in Pennington, Lymington. It provides a calm, informal setting for people affected by a life-limiting illness, those caring for someone, and people living with loss or bereavement. The service is centred on conversation, practical guidance, shared activities and emotional support rather than dining, although the centre offers the chance to chat over a cuppa.

The Coates Centre welcomes drop-in visits during its weekday opening hours, creating an accessible place for people to meet trained volunteers, ask about available services or simply spend time in peaceful surroundings. A healthcare referral is not needed to access the wellbeing support, activities and services. Support can also be explored through the Oakhaven Wellbeing team and its expression of interest process.

Regular support includes groups and activities for Oakhaven patients and their families, community wellbeing sessions, bereavement groups, practical drop-ins, social groups and planned activities. Complementary therapy and workshops form part of the wider offer, while signposting provides information and advice for carers. The programme is designed to respond to different experiences, whether someone is dealing with illness directly, supporting a family member or adjusting to bereavement.

Support is not limited to the hospice grounds. Oakhaven Wellbeing also works in local cafés, community centres and other community settings, helping people who may not be able to reach the Coates Centre easily. This outreach approach gives the service a community-based character and allows activities to take place in familiar local surroundings.

The atmosphere is supportive and low-key, with space for conversation, social contact or quiet time. It suits adults and families connected with Oakhaven’s care community, as well as people in the wider community who are affected by illness, caring responsibilities or bereavement. The setting can also be relevant to Isle of Wight visitors looking for a local wellbeing service while travelling in the Lymington area.

Oakhaven Wellbeing is based at The Coates Centre, Lower Pennington Lane, Pennington, Lymington SO41 8ZZ. The centre is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm and closes on bank holidays. Alongside drop-in support, the team can provide information about groups, activities, complementary therapy, bereavement support and other services available through Oakhaven.