There may be a time when you need to stay on our ward to help manage your pain or control your symptoms. Around 30% of patients on our ward come for a short stay with us and then return home. Many tell us that this short period can make a real difference, and they go home feeling more rested and comfortable.
Our expert team will be there for you and your family whenever you need, 24 hours a day. They will support you with the physical, emotional, social or spiritual impact of your illness, and help make sure your care always reflects what you want and need.
When you stay with us, we want you to treat the hospice like your home. Your loved ones can pop in at any time, and stay for as long as you want. There’s no daily routine to worry about, either. You can wake when you want, rest when you need, and eat what you choose, when you choose.
Once you’re settled, our welcoming spaces will give you the privacy and comfort you – and your family – need. You will have your own bedroom with an en-suite shower and access to a patio and our lovely gardens. And you will always find a warming cuppa and a friendly face at our Orangery Café.
Your frequently asked questions
What do I need to bring with me?
Please bring your own personal items such as:
- Pyjamas or nightwear, dressing gown, slippers
- Wash bag with soap, shower gel, shampoo, toothpaste, razor, hairbrush, moisturising cream and other personal care items.
- Any aids you use, such as a walking stick, frame or wheelchair.
You may also bring small personal items such as photographs and pictures to make your room feel more homely and familiar during your stay with us.
Please do not bring valuable items or large amounts of cash with you as we do not have facilities to store them and cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage.
What happens when I arrive?
Our friendly volunteers will welcome you at the main reception desk. They will take you to the ward to meet the nurse who will talk to you about your stay and the care you need. Our team will do all they can to make you feel comfortable – please let them know if you have any special requirements.
When are friends and family allowed to visit?
There are no visiting hours – your family and friends are welcome at any time, day or night. For security and fire regulations we ask all visitors to sign in and out at reception.
Can visitors bring pets?
We welcome well-behaved pets but would ask that you speak to the nurse in charge before bringing them in.
Can family stay overnight in the Hospice?
Additional beds can be set up in your room for family and friends who wish to stay the night with you. We also have a family room which can be used for overnight stays, so loved ones can stay close by and get some rest.
Do I receive meals at the Hospice?
As a patient on our ward you can eat what you want, when you want – we offer a range of wholesome meals, snacks and drinks and can cater for any special dietary requirements.
Breakfast is served from 8am
Lunch is served from 12:30pm
Supper is served from 5:30pm
We are able to offer alcoholic drinks to patients, as appropriate, for enjoyment and to increase appetite. Visitors may bring alcohol to a patient by agreement with the nurse in charge, and are requested to drink alcohol responsibly on the premises.
Are refreshments available for Visitors?
Whether you’re a patient, loved one, or someone passing by, you’ll discover a friendly face and a warming cuppa waiting for you at our on-site café.
Can I park at the Hospice for free?
There are plenty of free parking spaces on site for visitors.
What if it would be difficult to return home?
We have just 13 beds and demand for them is high, which means we cannot be an alternative to care in your own home, care home or nursing home. If your symptoms are well managed but it would be difficult for you to go back to your own home, we will help you and your family and friends to find other places where you can continue your care.
Visit our Orangery Cafe
Whether you’re a patient, loved one, or someone passing by, you’ll discover a friendly face and a warming cuppa waiting for you at our on-site café.
Orangery Cafe
