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Islanders from the Isles of Scilly requiring mainland medical treatment now have access to a new place to call home following pro bono support from international law firm Womble Bond Dickinson (WBD).
The firm has supported The Island Haven, a charity dedicated to ensuring those living on the Isles of Scilly will soon have access to a place to stay on the mainland UK when undergoing medical treatment, in the purchase of a five bedroom home on Tresawls Road in Truro.
Just a five minute walk from the nearby Royal Cornwall Hospital Treliske – the nearest major hospital for those living on the islands - the house is planned to be reconfigured to provide additional space for en-suites and communal lounge, dining, and kitchen areas, with a view for further expansion over time to reflect changing needs.
A WBD team led by Nikki Jonas, a partner in the firm's operational property team, advised on the deal, with associate practice development lawyer Alison Morden-Hawke and paralegal Aaron McPherson providing support on the matter.
Nikki said:
"This house will be more than just a stop for those coming from the Isles of Scilly; this will be a home away from home which provides a vital service to those requiring access to medical treatment which they can't get on the islands.
Our team is thrilled to support The Island Haven in this transaction with the legal expertise needed to close this deal, which represents a landmark moment for the charity and one which has been a long time coming – the power of community to continue pushing on this has been great to be a part of and we are honoured to support this noble cause."
The Island Haven has been working since 2017 to provide affordable and easy access to accommodation on the mainland for islanders who require medical treatment, stemming from a lack of affordable accommodation availability in the region, particularly during Cornwall's peak tourist season.
With the new property, islanders will no longer need to face considerable accommodation bills from staying in B&Bs or hotels, which will reduce financial pressures and improve access to healthcare.
Tim Guthrie, chair of The Island Haven, said: “We are delighted to have achieved this major milestone in the charity’s history, a goal only achieved because of the tireless efforts of Scilly’s small albeit passionate community of islanders, local businesses and visitors.
“We really cannot emphasise enough our gratitude to the small but dedicated community of Scilly – islanders, visitors and businesses – who have made this a reality.
“We also wish to sincerely thank the Womble Bond Dickinson team for their professional services over the course of this campaign, with their expertise and commitment to the cause crucial in helping enable the purchase to proceed.”
For more information on The Island Haven, please visit theislandhaven.co.uk.
The Island Haven's new property in Truro
