We’re bringing care to those who need it
EAST Cheshire Hospice is joining forces with national charity Hospice UK and other hospices across the country to support a new campaign aimed at widening access to end-of-life care.
Hospices provide wide-ranging support for the terminally-ill, including medical care, spiritual and emotional support and complementary therapies to promote wellbeing.
Hospices also provide their families with practical and emotional support, such as bereavement counselling.
Hospice UK and hospices are working in a number of ways to increase access to hospice care.
For East Cheshire Hospice this will include a new Hospice@Home service to be launched later this year, allowing patients access to specialist hospice care within their own homes.
Karyn Johnston, director of income generation at East Cheshire Hospice, said: “We’re delighted to help launch the Open Up Hospice Care Campaign. Every day we see the positive impact that hospice care has on people and their families, and we hope to be able to reach even more people soon through our Hospice @Home service.
“We want to ensure that everyone has access to hospice care when they need it and if we can raise more money we could provide more care.”
East Cheshire Hospice is also mounting a social media campaign, raising awareness that services such as counselling and complementary therapies are available for carers, as well as patients.
Tracey Bleakley, chief executive of Hospice UK, said: “Chances are you know someone who needs hospice care.
“Sadly, many families of people with terminal and life-limiting conditions are missing out on the vital care they need for their loved ones, as well as the emotional and psychological support available to help them cope.
“Hospices offer compassionate care which can play a vital role in easing suffering, providing comfort and relieving considerable pressures faced by families.
“Hospices are committed to extending the reach of their services but this work needs to be part of a wider effort involving all healthcare providers if we’re to ensure everyone gets the expert care they need at end-of-life.”
To support the Hospice @Home fundraising appeal, visit www. eastcheshirehospice.org.