We provide round the clock care on our In Patient Unit, where you can be looked after in a home away from home environment.
There are some common myths that surround hospices and we are working to dispel some of the misconceptions about what it's like to work, visit or be a patient at Hospice.
Jersey Hospice Care is just a place where people go to die
It is a common misconception that you only get admitted to a hospice to die. Although there are patients who come into Hospice for end of life care, many patients who are admitted to the In Patient Unit will come in for a medication review or symptom control. After a short stay, many patients will return home or to a place of care of their choice.
We only care for patients with cancer
Since 2014, we have provided care and support to patients with any life-limiting or life-threatening condition. This does include cancer, but also includes other conditions such as heart disease, kidney failure, liver disease, and motor neurone disease. Nowadays, almost half of our patients do not have cancer.
You must be admitted to the In Patient Unit to receive palliative and end of life care
Many of our patients are cared for in their own homes by our Specialist Palliative Care Team. They provide highly skilled and specialist care, helping patients maintain their independence and wellbeing.
Hospice is a sad place
Although our patients and their loved ones are often experiencing a very difficult time in their lives, we aim to create a warm and welcoming environment. There are sad times – of course – but our colleagues and volunteers try to make the Hospice a home away from home. We aim to create a place where patients are comfortable, and their loved ones can focus on being together and creating the best memories possible during their stay. We even welcome pets!
Jersey Hospice Care is a religious organisation
We are not a religious-based organisation. We take great pride in caring for people of all faiths and those with no faith. Our Spiritual Care Team supports anyone with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition, their family, and friends.
We should not talk about death
Conversations about death and dying can be difficult. It brings up uncomfortable emotions, so we tend to shy away from it. But starting conversations early is important to allow time for everyone to talk openly and honestly. Being able to talk gives us the opportunity to share worries, fears, or wishes. We can talk about our own death, a loved one’s death, being with someone when they die, asking what they want, and knowing what to expect, and what we can do to make it the best death it can be.
We recently had the pleasure of chatting to Simon Boas, Executive Director of Jersey Overseas Aid and a patient currently under our care. Following a terminal cancer diagnosis in February, Simon has been making headlines with his regular newsletter called 'A Beginner's Guide To Dying' where he shares his thoughts on life and death.
We asked Simon for his opinion on some of the common myths that surround hospices as well as sharing his experiences with the care he has received.
