Can I go home at the weekend?
If you are well enough and the doctors and nurses feel your condition is sufficiently stable, then home visits can be arranged.

Do you have any restrictions on visiting times?
The Hospice has an open and flexible approach to visiting. However, we have a quiet time each afternoon to allow patients to rest. At the request of patients, the nurses will ask for visitors to make short visits and may ask some friends to keep in touch by phone only.

Do you have to be religious to stay in the Hospice?
No, the Hospice is not a religious foundation; it does offer care to persons of any or no religious belief. When requested religious advisors/ministers can be contacted. The Hospice has a team of volunteer Chaplains who represent the main denominations.

Can I have a single room?
We have three single rooms. These are allocated on the basis of need rather than preference. However, it is okay to ask about availability.

Can I have my dog or cat to visit?
Well-behaved pets are most welcome.

What is the difference between a Hospice and a Hospital?
St Barnabas is a specialist facility that provides help and support to patients whose disease is no longer curable. This involves symptom management to relieve pain, breathlessness, nausea and vomiting amongst other symptoms as well as care for those that are dying. The Hospice approach recognises the needs of carers as well as those of the patient and sees addressing these needs as part of our role.

Will you keep in touch with me after discharge?
Patient's medical management is the responsibility of the G.P. after discharge. The Hospice Doctors remain available to give further advice to a G.P. if this is requested. Where appropriate, Hospice at Home nurses, Occupational Therapists or Physiotherapists may visit or attendance at the Hospice Day Care may be arranged.

Will you provide any help for my family when I am gone?
The family carers and support services role is to provide care for all those who need it both before and after the death has occurred. This is done via group and/or one to one meetings that are available at all of our day centres and the in-patient unit. For further information, please contact the manager of Family and Carers Support Service.

Do you have a library/music library?
We have a book trolley as well as a selection of musical tapes and some centres also have a small video library.

Can I go to a Day Hospice after discharge?
Yes, it is discussed as part of the discharge care plan.

Do you have complementary therapies at the hospice?
Yes, we have a selection of complementary therapies that include: - Aromatherapy massage, Indian Head massage, Reflexology and Reiki. A full consultation is taken and signed consent is required before commencing treatment.

Treatments are adapted to the individual, taking into consideration their illness and the medication. The therapies are offered to promote relaxation but other benefits may be experienced.