I am beside myself with sadness. The local hospice, the only one of it’s kind in my entire county, which I have attended one or two days a week for the past two years is closing at the end of this month due to lack of funding.
I have spent days crying, and as someone said to me, it is as bad as a bereavement. It has provided support for me and my family since it opened nearly 20 years ago. First for my late father, then for my late mother, and now for me.
The property was left to the community by an authoress with the stipulation that it be used for a hospice. The fundraising for this project was undertaken by a team of dedicated, local volunteers and took about ten years of hard work and commitment. The project has received some, but very little, public funding and several lottery grants. Other than that, it has been funded solely through donations and fundraising, mainly carried out by volunteers. It has two very popular retail shops for previously loved items.
I looked forward, eagerly, to my days there, it got me out of the house and socialising. Now this is going to disappear. I do not know what I am going to do without it. There is nothing to take it’s place. I am so sad I can scarcely get my mind around it.
We’re so sorry to hear this. It’s completely understandable that you feel such deep sadness. The hospice sounds like it has been a lifeline and a place of real comfort and connection. Losing that kind of support can feel like a bereavement. Please remember you do not have to face this alone. If you’d like to talk or need emotional support, our helpline is 0808 800 0303 and you can also reach us at [email protected].
It sounds like it’s going to leave quite a void… which, in one sense, is testament to the great work they have done. I’m sure you won’t be the only service user feeling this loss.
Do you know if your GP practice has, or has access to, a Social Prescriber? It’s their job to help find or facilitate alternatives in situations just like this.
Thank you, Simon. I very much doubt they can help. tbh, they barely know a paracetamol from a penicillin! I recently asked for help and guidance in preparing a low protein diet {as we Pk’s are supposed to eat} so they sent me to someone to teach me how to cook, and gave me a pen!!! If it wasn’t so serious I would laugh.
Thank you Rhea. It’s a huge blow to the entire community. I have been advised by the hospice staff to contact another local organisation, Paul Sartori, who may be able to help.
