A NEW high-street healthcare centre planned for Rugby is a step closer thanks to a donation to the town’s hospital charity.
The Rugby Group Benevolent Fund has donated £100,000 to the Friends of St Cross, the charity which supports the Hospital of St Cross and community and mental health services.
The donation will help establish the new town centre outpatient facility, aimed at improving access to health services for residents.
The centre, which is expected to open in late 2026, will offer advice, support, treatment and referrals for a range of health and wellbeing services.
The new facility will accommodate expanded services for the Maternity, Gynaecology, Children’s and Diabetes outpatient services currently based at St Cross, making them more accessible for patients.
It is designed to bridge the gap between clinical care and community support, making it easier for residents to engage with health professionals and access preventative care.
Fund Chair Graeme Fuller and trustees John Brooks, David Holton and Ian Southcott presented the donation cheque at the Friends of St Cross AGM, also attended by the High Sheriff of Warwickshire and the Mayor of Rugby.
Willy Goldschmidt, President of The Friends of St Cross, said: “The Friends are deeply grateful for all the support we have received from the Rugby Group Benevolent Fund over the years.
“This generous donation significantly empowers us to expand our contribution to this new health facility.
“With this boost, we can bring even more vital services closer to the people of Rugby, making a meaningful difference in our community.”
The Benevolent Fund was established by Rugby Cement in 1955 to support the welfare of employees, former employees, and their dependants.
Over the years, it has expanded its mission to include charitable causes in communities around former and existing cement plants and quarries. While supported by Cemex UK, the Fund remains independently managed by a board of trustees made up of former employees.
Mr Fuller said: “We are pleased to support the Friends of St Cross in their efforts to bring health services closer to the community.
“This donation reflects our commitment to improving the lives of people living and working in our local area.”
