Counselling
My partner and I would like to be seen together, is this possible?
Yes we see patients, partners or members of their family either together or individually
How can I see a counsellor when I don’t drive and can’t get to the hospice?
Our counsellors can go to your home if that suits you better. You will need to have a room available where you and your counsellor can be alone and undisturbed for the duration of the counselling session.
You run a bereavement service, how many bereavement counselling sessions can I have?
We offer bereavement support for up to six months.
What is the best time to begin bereavement counselling?
Each individual is unique and because of this there is no official date when one “should” enter into bereavement counselling. We will contact you 2-3 months after your bereavement however if you would like to see a counsellor sooner you can contact the bereavement coordinator.
Befrienders
How often can a Befriender visit?
The Befriender would normally visit for 2/3 hours each week but the timing, regularity and purpose of visits would be agreed between you. If you need to attend a special event and need an extra or longer visit then just discuss with you Befriender how we might help.
Is it possible for me to leave the patient with the Befriender during visits?
As long as the patient is happy the Befriender will spend time with them thereby giving the carer time for themselves. The Befriender is not able to administer medication or give personal care so the patient would need to be able to do this if required.
What is the cost involved, do we need to pay travel expenses?
As with other services from the hospice the Befriender service is provided free of charge. The Befrienders expenses are met from funding given specifically for this purpose.
Welfare
Am I entitled to any financial help as I now have very limited income?
We could meet with you to discuss your current financial situation i.e. your income, savings situation and any benefits currently received and advise you accordingly; or we could give you the contact number of a benefit helpline to enable you to discuss this anonymously or we could refer you to a local organisation eg. Citizens Advice Bureau.
Am I able to claim Disability Living Allowance or Attendance Allowance? and if so, could you help me complete the claim form?
We would look into your eligibility, which may depend on your age and current state of health. If you are entitled, we can help you complete the relevant claim.
I am currently an in-patient at the hospice and am soon to be discharged home. I need help with my care needs and shopping. How can I get help with this and would I have to pay for this support?
We have a list of care agencies local to your area and would discuss your situation with you as to if you may be eligible for funding to help with this or not.
Chaplaincy
Is there a Chapel?
Yes. The Chapel has a CD player, a small library of literature from several religions, and window blinds to help you express your personal spirituality in privacy. Apart from the regular weekly Holy Communion service on a Thursday morning to which patients and their visitors are welcome, it is usually available for reflection and prayer.
Can I see a Chaplain?
Yes. Our in-house team of Chaplains is available upon request to visit you in the Hospice or at home. Ask your nurse for an initial introduction.
What if I am not “religious”?
Our philosophy is to respect and listen to all patients whether they follow a religion or not. We can sensitively help you explore spiritual questions about the meaning of life, personal identity, and what lies beyond death.