Frequently Asked Questions:
- How can I arrange to see the Welfare Advisor?
- Can family members or carers see the St Catherine’s Welfare Advisor?
- If I am currently receiving benefits, will these be affected if I become an inpatient at St Catherine’s?
- I’ve always put off making a will and now I need to do something quickly. What can I do?
- What if I need to change a will?
- Do I need to pay for welfare advice?
How can I arrange to see the Welfare Advisor?
You can make direct contact by calling 01293 447345
If she is not available you will get through to an answer phone and if you leave a message she will get back to you. If she is away from the office for any reason, the answer phone message will tell you when she is next in the office and therefore likely to call you back.
Alternatively you can speak to any member of the hospice team and they will organise for her to contact you.
Can family members or carers see the St Catherine’s Welfare Advisor?
Yes, we are here to support patient’s families and carers at any stage during the illness and afterwards in bereavement. Should it be necessary, we can help with registering a death, funeral arrangements, advice on probate, funeral grants, cancelling benefits and a host of other official and practical issues that occur following bereavement.
If I am currently receiving benefits, will these be affected if I become an inpatient at St Catherine’s?
No, the majority of your benefits remain unaffected whilst you are an inpatient at St Catherine’s.
I’ve always put off making a will and now I need to do something quickly. What can I do?
Our Welfare Advisor can come and see you and tell you about the options available to you for making a will. Depending upon your circumstances, we can help you draft a simple will for yourself. Alternatively we can arrange for you to see a solicitor. Solicitors are available at short notice if required.
What if I need to change a will?
If you need to re-write or add a codicil to your will, you will need to take advice from your solicitor or another solicitor.
Do I need to pay for welfare advice?
No, every aspect of care offered to patients and families at St Catherine’s is completely free of charge.