Family Support Team
Any patient, family member or friend can find the experience of
living with life-threatening illness difficult and distressing at times. Emotional support is recognised as an essential part of overall health care and is part of the service provided by the whole multidisciplinary team.
The Family Support Team consists of social workers, psychological therapists and trained volunteers who are available Monday to Friday for those patients and families needing specific support and advice. They provide a service for patients, families and carers at any stage of a life threatening illness, including bereavement.
We offer a confidential space to discuss any issue arising from the impact of illness such as:
- coping with family worries and issues
- dilemmas over treatment options
- fear and concerns about the future
- how best to communicate with a partner or children about an illness
- specialist advice about benefits and welfare rights
Bereavement
Bereavement care is available and support may vary from a telephone call to regular in-depth counselling - for all ages. Bereavement support is provided by the Family Support Team and a team of trained volunteers. Children and young people are supported by Nicky's Way.
Spiritual and Pastoral Care
A full time Chaplain and a small team of honorary chaplains work as part of our multidisciplinary team here at St Nicholas Hospice Care. They are available to all patients, their relatives and friends, whatever their religion or belief.
The Chaplaincy team provides a pastoral presence, being alongside patients, families and carers, actively listening to their ‘here and now’ needs and concerns.They aim to give comfort, engender hope and enhance the spiritual well-being of people in our care who may be facing physical and emotional pain or struggling to find meaning towards the end of life
The Chaplaincy Team can offer prayers or Holy Communion at the bedside or in the Chapel, offers remembrance services and time for funeral and end-of-life planning. The Chaplain can also make contact with a patient or family's faith representative as needed.
We have a small multi faith Chapel/quiet room that is open 24 hours a day. This offers a space for those needing calm or time to reflect.
