Our Stories

“I didn’t know the Hospice offered dementia care groups and now I don’t know what I’d do without them. The team have almost become like family to me.”

Meet Loki and his owner Angela, who are volunteers with Pets as Therapy UK. Loki is one of the four therapy dogs that visit the Hospice, providing comfort and joy when people need it the most.

This Occupational Therapy Week, 4th-10th November, Occupational Therapist Emily & Day Services Manager David tell us more about their roles.

“From the first moment that I walked in it just hit me how much of a relaxing and welcoming environment it is. It doesn’t feel like a sad place. It feels alive. A happy, calm place."

“We know that following a diagnosis, we can’t change the outcome, but what we can do is make sure that someone’s quality of life, between now and then, is the best it can be.”

Volunteering is often used as a stepping stone to paid employment, and we’re delighted to share the good news that Alex has used her time at the Hospice to help her get into the world of work and now has a full-time job!

“The District Nurse visits my home weekly to take a blood test to see if I will need a transfusion. If the numbers are low, I’ll have either one or two bags transfused at the Hospice. If things are looking ok, I’ll come along and have a reiki session to help me relax.”

Matthew currently spends three days a week working between our Meadowfield Furniture & Homeware Store and Prince Bishops Shop, developing his employability skills.