Severn Hospice reveals plans for expansion
It has cared for 30,000 people since it opened its doors in 1989, and relies on 1,400 volunteers to keep its services running.
Now Shropshire's Severn Hospice is setting its sights firmly on the future, as plans for a £5 million expansion aims to take care beyond the ward and into the wider community.
The hospice, which operates from three main sites including Telford, Shrewsbury and Newton, provides vital care to those diagnosed with a terminal illness.
"Many think people come here to die, and yes that might happen for some, but it won't happen for all," explained Jeff Dixon, social worker at the Telford branch.
He added: "We support patients and their families right from initial diagnosis through to when the patient dies. We also provide bereavement support to family members.
"Our work allows the dying patient to live as long and as well as possible."
Staff say the needs of the community are changing because people are being looked after for longer. There is also a greater range of conditions and more complex needs.
Connection
Telford's care facilities are able to accommodate a total of nine inpatients, however four out of five people are cared for in their own homes.
It marked its 10th anniversary this summer with a celebration, including a cake and a visit from Telford's mayor.
Regular coffee mornings, organised by team leader Emma Brandon, are held in the hospice's day every other Tuesday. Patients can also benefit from several forms of therapy including hand massage, aromatherapy, reflexology and creative therapy during these meetings.
Hazel Jones, a 86-year-old Oswestry resident, was diagnosed with bowel cancer several years ago. She is now receiving specialist care at Telford's Severn Hospice.
She said: "I hate the thought of dying, but we've all come into this world and we've all got to leave at some point.
"It gets me low, it gets me fed up and it gets me depressed sometimes, but the staff have been very good to me.
"Beyond a shadow of a doubt, I never thought I'd have a connection with this hospice.
"The atmosphere is fantastic, you can't fault the staff at all as they've been extremely good to me and it's very peaceful."
New funding will see the Apley Castle site in Telford extended to allow for a larger therapy area for day patients.
Best
Meanwhile, at the Shrewsbury site, a whole new facility will be built to house therapy suites, treatment rooms, visitor facilities, learning resources and rehabilitation services.
Wendy Jones, nursing assistant, said: "When I first came here a lady said to me 'I don't know why they've built this hospice, it will never be needed in Telford'.
"Telford needed this place, and that's been proved over the years.
"I would say to people not to be afraid to seek help, but to come and see what we do and let us look after you – it's what we do best."
The charity relies solely on people's generosity and donations, last year 6,300 people took on various challenges and events to raise money for Severn Hospice.
To find out how you could help visit severnhospice.org.uk
