MARY Steven's Hospice has landed a national award for its work helping people with learning disabilities.

The hospice on Hagley Road won plaudits for its No Barriers Here project, which used art to encourage people with learning disabilities to have conversations about the end of life.

The project received funding from Hospice UK and used arts workshops to help participants explore different ways to have important discussions that they may find challenging.

Gemma Allen and Claire Towns accepted the Innovation in Tackling Inequalities Award on behalf of the hospice, Dudley Voices for Choice and Dr Jed Jerwood, at the Hospice UK Awards, held at the charity’s national conference in Liverpool on November 3.

Claire Towns, CEO at the Hospice, said: "We are delighted to receive this award from Hospice UK. There are many groups within society whose voices aren't heard in relation to end of life care and personalised planning.

“We are passionate at Mary Stevens that no matter what barriers are perceived to be in the way they can be overcome. The No Barriers Here Project, adopted a unique approach to include people with learning disabilities in conversations around their care at end of life.

"As a hospice we are exceptionally proud of this project and are looking forward to diversifying this work to other groups."

At the awards ceremony, Hospice UK CEO, Tracey Bleakley said: “Congratulations to the Mary Stevens Hospice on winning the Innovation in Tackling Inequalities Award. Their dedication and commitment to providing vital hospice and end of life care has been amazing to see, and without doubt has made a huge difference to the many people who rely on their support."