A PRIVATE hospital has been rewarded for its work providing care for people living with cancer.

The Montefiore Hospital in Hove has been awarded the Macmillan Quality Environment Mark for its oncology unit.

The unit was designed by, and for, cancer patients seven years ago before the hospital was even opened.

The charity kitemark recognises it has an environment sensitive to the needs of people being treated for cancer, providing them with comfortable surroundings which offer privacy and dignity.

Hospital matron Lynette Awdry said: “We had to undergo a rigorous assessment by the Macmillan inspectors, but are delighted to achieve the MQEM.

“Cancer is a tough disease and you can feel like you don’t have much control.

“It is essential that patients have as much choice as possible during their treatment and the environmental choices are part of that such as lighting, temperature, privacy and food timings and selection.”

Clare Dikken, lead oncology nurse, said: “The message was very clear from our patients - this is a private journey and we want the choice to be on our own sometimes but also the ability to communicate with other people undergoing treatment to share support and experiences.”

Musician and multimedia artist Brian Eno designed a quiet room.