Living with a serious illness can affect every aspect of a patient’s life, including relationships. Patients and those close to them can benefit from additional practical and emotional support to help them adjust to their new and changing situation and find a way forward together. Children, young people and those with special needs may need help understanding the illness and the changes it has brought about.
In addition to the medical and nursing staff our specialist palliative care social workers can play a key role in the support network of patients, their families or carers. They are trained and experienced in providing help with practical and emotional issues.
When someone becomes seriously ill many families find their income is significantly reduced. Social workers can provide support, information and advice relating to many practical issues, including benefits, housing and care packages. They can also help by contacting community services, on behalf of patients, families and carers and provide information about other support resources.
Following the death of someone close, it can be difficult to express thoughts and feelings especially with family and friends. However, sharing these emotions can often be helpful.
We have a group of trained volunteers who are able to offer confidential support with the emotional issues associated with bereavement. The service is free of charge and managed by our senior social worker and bereavement service co-ordinator. Support can be offered individually, at home or in the hospice, or within a support group, at the hospice.
The service also organises Times of Thanksgiving Services, which are held in the hospice four times a year and those bereaved within the previous few months are invited.
Useful links:
www.brentbereavement.org
www.wayfoundation.org.uk
www.winstonswish.org.uk