A bright, loving charity
Working in a hospice is in equal parts uplifting and draining. I get to work with the most amazing people and then sometimes, sadly, have to say goodbye to them too.
The communications office is directly above the 12 bed ward so on a day-to-day level I could be separated from the heart of our work here at Hospiscare. To make sure I stay connected with what we are really about, people, I often wander downstairs and chat with folk who are around.
Occasionally I interview patients or their loved ones and it can be difficult to hear their stories, but more often than not it is a life affirming experience as they remember the good times and great things about their, or their loved ones, lives.
At Hospiscare it’s the nurses, health assistants, consultants, doctors, housekeepers, volunteers who day in day out care for our patients and their loved ones.
They give expert advice, treatment and care, they listen, they see the tears, they give hugs, they place their hand on a hand when words just won’t work. They also crack jokes, wind up colleagues, have a laugh and even sometimes, if it’s appropriate, wear a selection of silly hats to cheer people up.
Recently Paige (that's her photo) joined us on work experience as a second year journalism student from Exeter College. She pops in twice a week and we’re really enjoying her being part of our small team.
When I asked her to write about her first few weeks she wrote this: “Staff here go the extra mile to give people the opportunities to enjoy life at a time when they feel their lives have hit limits. It’s a bright, loving charity that inspires people to not give up when life gets tough and shows the true meaning of community spirit at its best.”
I thought her description of us a bright, loving charity was beautiful and inspiring. Although Hospiscare is frequently thought of as running the city’s hospice, a building, we are really a community of dedicated, passionate, professional people who love looking after people.
So next time you read or hear about Hospiscare remember us as a charity which is bright and loving.
