Emotional support
Helping patients and their loved ones
We know that it can be overwhelming when a person is diagnosed with a life-limiting condition. Our Patient & Family Support Team is here to support patients and their loved ones through this difficult time.
Whilst our patient care is very important, the wellbeing of their families and carers is too. If they wish to keep in touch, our door is always open - during and beyond the patient’s illness. Throughout the year we also host special occasions, including Time to Remember and our Light up a Life ceremonies, to celebrate the lives of loved ones.
Counselling & bereavement support
We have a professionally trained team of paid and volunteer counsellors to help patients and their families who are experiencing emotional or psychological difficulties. e tailor our support to individual needs; from individual counselling sessions to group support, arranged at a convenient time.
Spiritual support
We have a pastoral care team who provide emotional and spiritual support to help patients and their families. For those people with a religious faith or a non-religious belief, we adopt a non-denominational approach and we have an excellent local network of faith leaders and community representatives who are able to visit patients, if requested.
Children & families support
We have a team dedicated to supporting children and families who are referred to us. The serious illness or death of a parent can be devastating for children and young people, and brings multiple challenges into their lives. Thanks to a grant from BBC Children in Need, we have recruited two additional support workers with specialist skills for the better support of local children and families who are approaching or experiencing bereavement.
Practical help
It can sometimes be confusing working out how to get the help one is entitled to. Our in-house social workers are here to assist with any practical issues that arise and to liaise with voluntary and statutory agencies to support discharge from Thames Hospice. They can also suggest appropriate agencies for advice on benefits and funding for care packages.
