“These days are so important in terms of giving families more information about the next step of their hospice journey” – teenagers supported by EACH attend a special transition drop-in session at Priscilla Bacon Lodge

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For many families, navigating the complex world of hospice care can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. Recently, two families had the opportunity to take a significant step towards understanding and preparing for the future of their loved ones’ care. At Priscilla Bacon Lodge in Norwich, a special transition drop-in session was held, where families with children currently receiving support from East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) at The Nook could learn more about adult hospice care. Among those in attendance were Bethany Smith, accompanied by her parents Steve and Caroline and sister Bonnie, and Brooke Sprawling, who came with her mum Justine. This was a unique chance for these families to connect with others who are going through similar experiences and to gain valuable insights into the next stage of their hospice journey.

As they arrived at Priscilla Bacon Lodge, the families were greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere. They were introduced to Jane Baker, the Music Therapist, who led a fun and engaging jam session. This lighthearted activity allowed everyone to relax and enjoy each other’s company, creating a sense of community and camaraderie. Meanwhile, a colleague from complementary therapies offered relaxing hand massages for the parents, providing a much-needed break and an opportunity to unwind. The families also had the chance to meet with Specialist Palliative Care Pathway Lead Tracey Dryhurst and Commercial Director Fern Ainsworth, who were on hand to answer any questions and provide guidance. This personalized approach helped to alleviate any concerns and provided reassurance, allowing the families to feel more informed and empowered.

The event was attended by Groups and Events Co-Ordinator Clare Oakley, who represented EACH. She noted that the day was “very lovely and positive” and provided a “golden opportunity” for the families to connect with others and learn more about the transition process. Clare emphasized the importance of these events, which are designed to give families a deeper understanding of the next step in their hospice journey. By attending these sessions, families can gain a better understanding of what to expect and can begin to prepare for the future. This can be a daunting prospect, but with the right support and guidance, families can feel more confident and equipped to navigate the challenges ahead.

The monthly drop-in sessions are a vital resource for families, providing a safe and supportive environment where they can ask questions, share their experiences, and connect with others who are going through similar challenges. These sessions are aimed at those aged 14 and over and are held at various locations, including Priscilla Bacon Lodge, Tapping House Hospice, and the Louise Hamilton Centre. Representatives from Zest young adult care, which is part of St Elizabeth Hospice in Ipswich, also attend these sessions, providing additional support and guidance. By working together, these organizations can ensure that families receive comprehensive and coordinated care, tailored to their unique needs and circumstances.

For families like the Smiths and the Sprawlings, these sessions can be a lifeline. They provide a chance to learn about the range of services and support available, from respite care to end-of-life care, and to meet with healthcare professionals who can offer expert guidance and advice. By attending these sessions, families can begin to build relationships with the people who will be caring for their loved ones, which can help to alleviate anxiety and uncertainty. Moreover, these events provide an opportunity for families to share their experiences and connect with others who understand what they are going through. This sense of community and understanding can be incredibly powerful, helping families to feel less isolated and more supported as they navigate the complexities of hospice care.

As the session drew to a close, the families left feeling more informed, more connected, and more confident about the future. They had gained a deeper understanding of the transition process and had begun to build relationships with the people who would be caring for their loved ones. The event had been a resounding success, providing a safe and supportive environment where families could learn, share, and connect. As Clare Oakley noted, these events are “so important” in terms of giving families the information and support they need to navigate the next stage of their hospice journey. By attending these sessions, families can feel more empowered and more prepared for the challenges ahead, knowing that they are not alone and that there are people and organizations who care about them and want to support them every step of the way.