Jersey Hospice expands its day service

Sunday 07 May 2017

Jersey Hospice Care is growing its 'day service' by opening for a fourth day every week and introducing drop-in sessions.

Based in the King Centre the Day Hospice is currently open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 10:30 and 15:15, based on a 12-week program. It will soon be open on Thursdays too.

Gail Caddell, Director of Palliative Care Services, explains that opening this fourth day will help making the service more available. "We have a great facility and as we are a community service we do not feel it would be right not to use to the fullest. If people want to drop in and then drop out, that's great, if they want to come back in that's great too. It's all about what works best for people."

The Day Hospice is available to people with life limiting illnesses whether or not they are already receiving support from Jersey Hospice Care. People who wish to attend can be referred by their GP or nurse or phone the staff for further information. Volunteer drivers can sometimes go to pick up patients who have no means of transport and would be otherwise unable to attend.

The hospice is staffed by nurses who offer a wide range of services, from psychological support, to an education program which helps people understand what they are entitled to, relaxation and complimentary therapies. Volunteers also help with arts and crafts, gardening and even pampering. Mrs Caddell explains: "It's not just about making something. They get to learn new skills and get a sense of well being from achievement. It gives them a sense of purpose which what the essence of what we do is. It's all about making the most of what they have and help them live to the fullest.

"We always ask patients if there is something they would like to do and we try to make it happen. We have a very dedicated team that will go above and beyond to do it. Sometimes people see the Hospice as a scary place, we do have sad days, but we also have a lot of happy moments too!"

Pictured: The Day Hospice has a dining area, comfy armchairs, supplies for a variety of arts and crafts and even a pampering salon.

"For some outpatients, this might be the only occasion they go out of the house. They get to chat with other people who are going through the same journey and the friendship and camaraderie really help them. The bonds that they create here are very strong."