With the growth of the town, a new hospital was proposed by the community in Dawlish in the early 90s. The government of the time had introduced an initiative of Public Private Partnerships (PPP) funded by Private Finance Initiatives (PFI) to build hospitals, libraries and schools. Under this arrangement the developer built the hospital and maintained the building for 25 years whilst the NHS ran the operation of the hospital.
Even with the financial input of the PFI, the NHS could not afford to build the hospital. To save the project, the Friends of Dawlish Hospital were formed and they pledged £850,000 to fit out the hospital with beds, furniture, kitchen and all other fixtures and fittings to allow the hospital to function. To put into perspective, that £850k is some £1.9m in today’s money.
With the considerable support of the community and generous donations, the Friends achieved their aim and the hospital was built.
We are always looking out for volunteers to help fundraise and would be very pleased to hear from you if you would like to become involved.