Whether someone is living with a terminal illness, or close to someone who is, our Patient and Family Support Team are there to offer expert care and support to those who need it most. From counsellors offering confidential sessions to our Welfare Advisor who can offer more practical advice and aid, our bereavements and carer support services can be accessed by anyone facing death and loss.
“It’s lovely to support people as they find a way through their grief and loss to find moments of purpose and joy in the world again. It’s also interesting to meet so many people from all walks of life, who despite the challenges they’re facing, are willing to share their thoughts and feelings in order to find a way through.
A client once said to me during her first counselling session ‘I wasn’t sure about coming back here for counselling after my husband’s death, but one of the staff gave me such a warm and friendly smile in the car park, I knew it was going to be okay’. Things like that make a big difference.
Being part of the Patient and Family Support Team, and having colleagues with so much experience and knowledge also makes the job richer. I’ve been warmly welcomed by the wider hospice team so it’s been easy to settle in and enjoy the work.”
Our patients and their loved ones are the best people to hear from when it comes to our care. Our team make a huge difference to those facing death and loss. By joining us, you’ll be a part of that, allowing us to reach even more people who need us.
"The hospice provided me and my husband Alex with support and comfort whilst Dad was receiving care and members of my family have continued to use their services like counselling since. In the worst days, they brought light. It’s hard to put into words the quality of care and support we received during the hardest time of our lives."
Read more"This place saved my life. The team here have got me through some of the darkest days. Had it not been for them, I honestly doubt I’d be sitting here now, talking to you and sharing my story. I’ve learnt that it’s OK to have bad days, and it’s OK to cry and be angry at this horrible thing called cancer. But more importantly, I’ve learnt that my life isn’t over. "
Read more"Mine was such a sudden diagnosis, I needed to talk to someone who wasn’t family about how I was feeling. My counsellor’s also helped me think about my funeral, and eased the pain of that, and helped me plan for end of life. Everyone has a misconception that St Catherine’s is a sad place, but there’s laughter, merriment and people smiling despite the sad times. "
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