When someone you care about is diagnosed with a terminal illness it can be overwhelming for everyone. That’s why we’re not just here for our patients but for the family and friends who surround them.
Our support for loved ones and carers, as well as the patient themselves, encompasses all aspects of life and is tailored to the needs of the each individual.
Support for children and young people
Our Specialist palliative care social worker often works with patients and carers to provide emotional support, and to encourage social connections, they take the lead on supporting carers of patients, and also provide the opportunity for parents/ carers of school aged children to discuss how best to talk to their children about what is happening.
Children and young people often have different needs to adult members of the family and helping them to understand the changes illness and bereavement brings is extremely important.
We also work closely with other organisations in our community who specialise in supporting children living with illness and who are bereaved. Occasionally we may also provide a specific period of therapeutic work with a young person ourselves.
Our hospice Social Worker has published a book called Precious Times, it offers support to families with children.
Jake is thankful for the counselling support he received from the Hospice when his mum was ill. To anyone who isn't sure or doesn't think it will help them he says:
“Don’t brush it off. Be open-minded, give it a go and see what happens. I wouldn’t be where I am today without it and the support of my family. The Hospice staff are very focused on everybody, they’re so kind and caring.”
Read Jake’s story here.
For more information, please contact our Family Support Team on 01622 792200 ext 260.
