Symptom Management

For those with life limiting conditions, we offer support to get their symptoms under control then return home or place of care after a few days or weeks of assessment and support.

This approach can really improve the quality of life for the patient and there is no limit to the number of times they can receive temporary care.

We are here for families and carers too, who may need help with finding other social care services that can provide support. We’ll do our best to guide everyone though the decision making and signpost places for further help.

End of Life Care

Our focus is on giving our patients the best care at the end of their lives. To support their families, to provide pain relief and to ensure that everyone is treated with compassion at a most traumatic time.

An average length of stay with us is around 12 days but however long they are with us, we’re here to do whatever we can. We know that grief is long lasting and we can support people who are bereaved with face to face and virtual specialist counselling.

Discharge Planning

Wakefield Hospice provides specialist care to people with life threatening illnesses, some of whom stay with us at the very end of their lives. However many of our patients stay with us for just a few weeks until their symptoms are better managed. They are then supported to be discharged from the hospice, transferring their care to their, or a relative’s home. For some people that is not possible and they need to be in a 24 hour care environment such as a Nursing Home as Wakefield Hospice does not provide long term care.

Whatever your individual circumstances we will do all we can with the resources available to achieve your preferred place of care including a safe, effective and timely discharge involving you and your family as plans progress.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does someone get admitted to the hospice?

We accept referrals from professional health services like GPs or hospital teams who will have assessed the patient’s specific needs.

They will discuss the referral with you beforehand.

We support anyone with a life limiting illness including cancer, dementia, chronic lung and heart conditions, Parkinson’s Disease, Motor Neurone Disease or other debilitating condition.

My doctor says I need to go to the hospice, why is that?

People come to us because they need the kind of specialist care we can provide.

Some patients, with life limiting conditions, may have already spoken to their doctor or healthcare professional about an Advanced Care Plan. This is an arrangement to stay in the Hospice when they become very unwell and wish to spend their remaining time with us. You and your doctor will decide when that time is right for you.

However, this isn’t the route for all patients. You may be admitted for a temporary stay if your doctor or health professional thinks you’d benefit from our specialist care. That could be helping to manage your symptoms or pain relief and our focus is on getting you back home and doing the things that are most important to you.

How long will I be in the hospice?

Everyone is different and you may be with us for a short stay while we manage your symptoms and get you back home or to another place of care more suited to your long term care.

For those who choose to spend their last days with us, it can be a few days or weeks.

Can my family visit me?

We encourage families and close friends to visit as much as you like.

Can my pet come and visit me?

Yes, well-behaved pets are most certainly allowed!

Do I need food and drinks?

We have catering facilities and we’ll prepare all your meals. Please let us know about special dietary needs so we can serve food and drink to suit you. If there is something particular you’d like, we’ll do our very best to make it available.

What should I bring with me?

Bring your normal toiletries, comfortable clothing and footwear and some nightwear. We always have spare toiletries in case you’ve forgotten something. Where possible, we ask that your family manages your personal laundry. There’s no need to bring large amounts of money and please leave valuables at home.

Who works at the hospice?

We have health professionals on duty 24 hours a day including, nurses, care assistants and other staff. Doctors are here during the day and are on call 24 hours. Our medical director is a specialist consultant in palliative care and is responsible for the overall running of the Hospice.

There are also other health care professionals like physiotherapists, occupational therapists, a social worker and family care nurse who can help support families. Our bereavement support team are also available for counselling.

All our clinical staff are supported by teams who provide essential services that keep the Hospice running smoothly like, receptionists, accountants, housekeeping, gardeners, catering and not forgetting our fundraisers.

Will I be able to see my faith leader?

Yes, we can contact faith and spiritual leaders in the local area and make sure that you have access to your chosen person.