It’s truly a privilege to work in the hospice sector, but today I feel even more inspired after listening to talks by Amy Claire Davies and City Hospice Volunteer, Steve Capper on their hospice experiences, and the difference that exceptional charities have made to them.
Hospice Care Week runs from 7th – 13th October. This is an annual opportunity to celebrate the work of hospices throughout the country, organised by Hospice UK. And there really is so much to celebrate.
Hospice Care Week at The Senedd
On Wed 9th October, we visited The Senedd (Welsh Government). Hospices from across Wales came together to meet Assembly members, and highlight the importance of hospice care. Speakers included; Jonathan Ellis, Director of Policy and Advocacy at Hospice UK, Helen Mary Jones AM, Julie Morgan, Deputy Minister for Health and Social Services, Amy Claire Davies speaking on behalf of Ty Hafan, and Steve Capper speaking on behalf of City Hospice.
During Steve Capper’s talk he summed up perfectly how so many of us feel. “Hospices are about living, not dying”. Our work ensures that patients in our care can have the best quality of life, for as long as is possible. We are also there for families offering support and counselling when they need us most.
“Giving Back”
Steve talked about the care given to his wife Denise. Along with the counselling that has been offered to him since Denise’s death. Steve is now an active volunteer at City Hospice and regularly supports our monthly bereavement coffee morning. He talked enthusiastically about ‘giving back’ to City Hospice, after the incredible support offered to him and his family.
Hospices are hugely grateful to the wonderful people who give their time, effort and skills to our charities. In fact 290,000 hours were donated by volunteers to Hospices in Wales during 2018. With 3,500 people volunteering for local hospices in Wales during that time.
“Outstanding Care”
8600 adults are seen by community care and hospice at home in Wales every year, in addition to 800 children receiving charitable hospice care in Wales. Amy Claire Davies spoke of the outstanding care and support the children’s hospice, Ty Hafan has given her, helping her to become the young women she is today.
Amy and Steve’s enthusiastic words touched us all, not only for their honesty and sincerity, but also because of their strength of support for their local hospices.
Quoting Dame Cicely Saunders, Julie Morgan AM (and City Hospice Vice President) quite perfectly said “You matter until the last moment of life”. A sentiment felt by all hospices in Wales.
Best wishes,
Liz Andrews
Chief Executive, City Hospice
