James Hopkins Trust was founded in 1989 to support Gloucestershire families who have a young children who face severe health challenges. Over the years, the Trust has provided free nursing respite care for children aged 0–5 with complex medical needs—either at their family home or at the charity’s purpose-built respite centre in Barnwood, Gloucester.
Known locally as Kites Corner, the centre offers a safe, homely, and welcoming space where children can receive expert care while their families get a much-needed break. The centre is open every day of the year and provides overnight stays, daytime care, and holiday clubs.
James Hopkins Trust is a vital service for families in the region—giving them access to tailored medical support, overnight respite, and a place where children can safely play, rest, and receive care in a warm and loving environment.
The Project: Upgrading an Essential Space
Earlier this year, Astor Bannerman was proud to donate and install an upgraded changing solution at James Hopkins Trust to help staff care for children with more comfort, dignity, and ease.
Previously, the centre’s changing room used a wall-mounted changing table and a straight ceiling track hoist system, which limited flexibility and use of the space. The ceiling hoist track didn’t offer full room coverage, and the hot water tank took up valuable space—restricting movement around the child and making personal care routines more difficult for both families and staff.
In partnership with Kier Construction, who handled the building modifications, the hot water tank was removed to free up the room and allow for a better equipment layout. We then supplied and installed:
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An XY Ceiling Track Hoist System – replacing the old straight track with a flexible XY system that offers full room coverage, making transfers smoother and safer.
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An Astor Mona Mobile Changing Table – height-adjustable, freestanding, and accessible from either side, which is particularly helpful for larger children and multi-carer use.
Before.
After.
Key Benefits for Staff and Families
Since the refit, the changing room has seen a transformation not only in its layout but in how it’s used day to day.
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More usable space: With the hot water tank removed, there’s now ample room for carers and family members to support the child together.
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Improved safety: The mobile changing table and XY ceiling hoist create a safer environment, especially when caring for larger or heavier children.
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Better access: The Mona table’s height adjustment means carers can position the child at a safe and comfortable working height, especially useful during overnight respite or holiday clubs.
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Family-friendly: On ‘stay and play’ days or family sessions, the room is now far more inclusive—making it easier for families to be present and participate in care routines.
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More clinical efficiency: The enhanced layout has made medication administration and other clinical tasks quicker and more comfortable to carry out.
Kind Words from the Team
Sarah Nash, Manager at James Hopkins Trust, said:
“The work you provided has made a huge difference to us. It’s safer, easier, and much more comfortable for our staff, families, and most importantly, the children. Thank you so much – and a special thank you to Rob, who was amazing!”
Supporting the Heart of Gloucestershire
At Astor Bannerman, we’re passionate about creating accessible, dignified environments that support everyone’s right to receive care with comfort and respect. It was an honour to contribute to the vital work of James Hopkins Trust and help create a space that supports so many families in Gloucestershire.
Get In Touch
If you’re looking to upgrade your changing facility or need advice on best practice for accessibility and clinical care environments, our team is always happy to help.
