YOUR HOSPICE UPDATE
How your support is enriching lives
Finding comfort and connection in the garden
A decade of care, compassion and cake at The Longhouse ‘I’m still me.’ Hospice patient Michael tells his story P2 P3 P6
FINDING COMFORT AND CONNECTION IN THE HOSPICE GARDEN
When Jules first attended our Family Day in the garden, she wasn’t sure what to expect. She and her young daughter were navigating an incredibly difficult time after Jules’ husband died. “It’s not an easy reason to come together,” she reflects, “but it’s such a supportive place to be.”
The garden sessions have become a safe haven, a place where families facing similar challenges can share understanding without explanation. “People just get the ups and downs of your journey,” said Jules.
Alongside the warmth of companionship, there’s joy in the simple pleasures: sharing a picnic, enjoying a cup of tea, and taking part in craft activities. “The children and I love the crafts,” Jules smiles.
“We get to spend quality time together, and it’s brought me even closer to my little girl.”
Over time, these gatherings have given Jules more than moments of comfort. They’ve brought her lasting friendships. “I’ve met some really good people I would now call friends,” she says. “It’s been such a gift during a very hard time.”
For Jules, Family Day is more than an event. It’s a reminder that even in the hardest of times, there can still be moments of laughter, connection, and hope.
“WE GET TO SPEND QUALITY TIME TOGETHER, AND IT’S BROUGHT ME EVEN CLOSER TO MY LITTLE GIRL.”
Jules enjoying time in the hospice garden
Sharing a picnic, having a cup of tea and crafting together
A DECADE OF CARE, COMPASSION & CAKE
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF SUPPORT FROM THE LONGHOUSE IN HOLSWORTHY
The need for hospice support in Holsworthy, the most remote part of our area, has never been more apparent. The Longhouse was opened 10 years ago this month, to provide a sanctuary to those facing a life-limiting illness and their loved ones too. Since then, well over 1,000 local people have found their own community here, enjoying relief for the mind, body and soul.
“There’s something very special about The Longhouse,” says Mandy Bateman from the hospice’s Supportive Care Team. “We’re providing people with support in the form of counselling and relaxing complementary therapies. But there is support you may not expect like group sessions, providing a space to talk with others or be creative. We share so much through our laughter and tears with a welcome cuppa and cake.”
To mark 10 years of incredible care in the Holsworthy community, we’re holding an open evening at The Longhouse. Please join us to find out more about the vital care being delivered in this area.
30 THE LONGHOUSE OPEN EVENING SEPT
MARKING 10 YEARS OF CARE, TUES 30TH SEPT, 5PM – 7PM All welcome. Refreshments provided.
10 YEARS CELEBRATING OF CARE
ALL PROCEEDS TO
DOG DAYS ARE ROVER!..
A fantastic new venture supporting the hospice has opened in Barnstaple and has rapidly become the new favourite stomping ground for dogs of all shapes and sizes. With five-acres of multi-terrain fast running, long and short grass, agility equipment and secure six-foot fencing, Waggy Tails Meadow offers everything you need to tire out your pups. It’s also in the perfect location with beautiful views over Barnstaple town and beyond.
We’ve tried to create the ideal space for reactive dogs, those in training, multiple furry friends and nervous hounds alike. The new and exciting addition to Barnstaple’s dog walking scene has
received rave reviews from those who have visited the field since opening.
But don’t take our word for it, here is what one happy customer had to say:
“OUR FLATTIE AND SPRINGER LOVED WAGGY TAILS MEADOW. WE LOVE THE ETHOS OF OUR FUN AND EXERCISE SUPPORTING THE HOSPICE.”
If you haven’t visited Waggy Tails Meadow yet, then online bookings are open now
7,000
NEW REASONS TO GO CHARITY SHOPPING!
We’re so excited to let you in on some big news! Our huge new Clothing Warehouse is open for business. It’s full of treasures, with over 7,000 pre-loved pieces waiting on the rails, from cosy jumpers to summer dresses, smart jackets to perfect pairs of jeans...all looking for a new home.
The best bit? Every single purchase helps fund the care and support we give to local people and their families when they
need it most. So while you’re hunting for that perfect find, you’re also making a real difference.
We asked our store ambassador, Ruby, why she loves charity shopping. She told us:
“YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT YOU’LL FIND, IT’S LIKE A TREASURE HUNT. IT’S SUSTAINABLE, AFFORDABLE, AND SO GREAT TO KNOW THAT WHAT YOU’RE BUYING HELPS PEOPLE IN NORTH DEVON.”
YOUR LEGACY COULD BE SOMEONE’S LIFELINE
Many people are surprised to learn how powerful a gift to North Devon Hospice in their will can be. By choosing to remember us in this way, you can help ensure that patients and families facing some of life’s most difficult moments receive the care, compassion, and support they deserve.
Your legacy doesn’t just provide comfort today; it helps us plan for the future. It means we can be there for more people in our community, reaching as many as possible, for as long as possible. Whether your gift is large or small, it will make a real difference to those navigating the most challenging journeys.
Leaving a gift in your will is simple to arrange, but its impact will last for generations. It’s a way to continue caring for others, ensuring that kindness and compassion live on.
SO POP IN, MON - SAT 9:30AM - 4PM, TWO RIVERS INDUSTRIAL ESTATE BARNSTAPLE. HAVE A RUMMAGE, AND SEE WHAT YOU DISCOVER!
FIND OUT MORE BY DOWNLOADING OUR FREE WILL INFO PACK OR VISIT NORTHDEVONHOSPICE.ORG.UK/FOREVER
MICHAEL: “I’M STILL ME”
“My cancer doesn’t define me, I’ll carry on being the person I’ve always been”
Michael Ryan writes first-hand about living with cancer, and how he is helped to live well by his hospice nurse, Ali.
“Living with cancer is rather like being landed with a troublesome distant relative who declares they like you so much, already, that they’ll stay indefinitely. In my case, it started with a small lump on my jaw, which turned out to be inoperable cancer in my head, neck and lungs.
“For most of my adult life, I’ve relied on my own resilience and resources
to tackle whatever’s come my way. But living with cancer has changed all that. I was referred to North Devon Hospice and soon met my hospice nurse, Ali. She has been the best thing to happen to me - a calm, steady, reliable friend who’s there when I need her.
“Living with cancer is a mix of hopes and fears, but Ali is helping me stay strong, to hold on to the fact that despite my diagnosis, I am still the same Michael Ryan friends and colleagues have always known. The real me is still in there. I’ll be fine, knowing I have the care and support the hospice provides.”
LOVE, INCLUSION, AND HOSPICE SUPPORT
Pride is about love, visibility, and belonging... and so are we. This June, our team proudly joined Barnstaple Pride, celebrating diversity and inclusion with flags flying, rainbow face paint, and plenty of smiles.
The rain couldn’t dampen the atmosphere as we danced in the drizzle,
shared leaflets and stickers, and connected with people from all walks of life. Every interaction reminded us why visibility and compassion matter. Pride isn’t just a celebration, it’s a statement: that North Devon Hospice is for everybody, every story, every life. Our care knows no boundaries. Only dignity, support, and understanding.
Michael pictured with hospice nurse, Ali
MISSION: UNBREAKABLE
UMISSION: NBREAKABLE
10 YEARS OF MUD, DETERMINATION, AND MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Mission: Unbreakable is back, marking its 10th anniversary! This October, the muddy fields of North Molton will become the ultimate test of grit, teamwork, and determination - designed to push you to your limits with plenty of laughs along the way in true commando style. Every obstacle conquered and every muddy mile helps raise vital funds, enabling us to provide the very best care for patients and families across North Devon.
Among those gearing up for the challenge is Harry, taking on
Mission: Unbreakable for a personal connection that makes every step of the course even more meaningful.
“This will be my fourth year taking part in Mission: Unbreakable. This year, the challenge means even more to me.
A very special friend of mine is living with stage four cancer, and North Devon Hospice have been by her side, offering care and support in so many ways. I’m truly blown away with the kindness and dedication they show, and I’m so very proud to be running for them.”
Harry is taking on Mission: Unbreakable for his friend Katy, whose own strength in the face of cancer is a daily reminder of why events like Mission: Unbreakable matter. Katy shares her thoughts on those taking part in this event.
“People like my friend Harry, who give their time and energy to raise money for North Devon Hospice, make it possible for me - living with a stage four cancer - to walk through the doors and receive the emotional support and physiotherapy that are helping me become the strongest version of myself at this really difficult time. Their kindness doesn’t just raise funds, it gives people a place where they feel understood and supported. It means so much to know I can access that care. It’s made me realise just how much North Devon Hospice does for people at every stage of their journey.”
MISSION: UNBREAKABLE TO BE PART OF THIS YEAR’S EVENT, SIGN UP AT MISSIONUNBREAKABLE.CO.UK
ARRIVAL OF CUDDLE BEDS SPARKS JOY FOR HOSPICE PATIENTS
Thanks to your overwhelming reaction to our Cuddle Appeal earlier this year, we recently took delivery of three new specialist cuddle beds. They expand to almost double the width of a regular hospice bed, meaning patients can properly snuggle up with loved ones when staying on our Bedded Unit.
One of the beds was funded entirely by a donation from Barnstaple Lions Club, who chose to support the appeal in memory of a former member.
“In his passing, he’d left a large legacy to the club, and we wanted to find a very special cause to support with his gift,” said Barnstaple Lions President, Mandy Peeling. “Along came the Cuddle Appeal, and it was perfect. We decided to fund one whole bed, with a £15,000 donation. This means patients will have the finest care, with their loved ones by their side, in real comfort.”
CUDDLE APPEAL
Hannah Crawley, Team Leader on the Bedded Unit, said: “We can all imagine what we would give for one more proper cuddle with someone we love. Thanks to the generosity of the whole North Devon community, people will be able to spend more precious time together, when it matters most. We cannot thank you all enough.”
‘IF DEATH CAN BE BEAUTIFUL, DAD’S REALLY WAS…’ BEING IN THE COMFORT OF HOME MADE ALL THE DIFFERENCE FOR RICHARD AND HIS FAMILY
When 81-year-old Richard Chamings was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in March 2024, his family navigated months of chemotherapy, appointments and tests - before being referred to the hospice for end of life support.
Richard’s daughter Paula told us: “Dad wanted to be supported in the comfort of his own home, surrounded by his family. The fact the hospice could facilitate that for us was incredible.
We were all able to carry on as usual and be around Dad whenever we wanted to be. The Hospice to Home team were coming in frequently to help Dad with symptoms and to ensure he was comfortable. They were so caring, calm and gentle. It made us feel like they had all the time in the world.”
The vast majority of North Devon Hospice’s care is delivered in people’s own homes, so they can be surrounded by their loved ones and home comforts. Paula says this made all the difference.
“Being able to say that Dad’s life ended in exactly the way he wanted, is something I’ll forever be grateful to the hospice for.
“We are a big family and we were all able to be there the way he wanted. It was so beautiful to be together in that moment. We could not have asked for anything more, and neither could Dad.”
Paula with her Dad, Richard, and brothers.
HOSPICE BENEFITS FROM MUCH-LOVED COMMUNITY EVENT
This year’s Bideford Soapbox Derby saw over 40 teams, from across the region, battle for the top spot as they took to the streets in this thrilling event.
We had the absolute pleasure of being chosen as this year’s charity partner, by event organisers Becky and David Edwards. Becky told us: “We chose North Devon Hospice because of the major impact they have on families across North Devon. The care they provide is truly an asset to our local communities, and many of us will have benefited from their support in some way. The breadth of care is remarkable, and we are proud to help them continue providing essential support for patients and families.”
This year, it felt only right to submit a soapbox entry to show our gratitude to the organisers and supporters - so after months of planning, sourcing reclaimed supplies and building, we had our very own (pink, furry!) soapbox ready to take to the streets. Credit to chief racing engineer Neil Cullum!
The driving team, Ben Morgan & Rich Carter, did an excellent job on the day of making it down in one piece, for the first run...we won’t talk about the second run, but let’s just say there were a few small bruises in the name of top-quality entertainment for the crowds!
VOLUNTEERING ACROSS GENERATIONS
By hospice volunteer Harry Kent
To celebrate National Volunteers Week, as the hospice’s youngest volunteer, I met Christine Slee, the charity’s oldest at 91. Despite nearly eight decades between us, we discovered how much we had in common.
I started volunteering at the hospice’s Torrington shop, expecting to just fold clothes, but learned that even small tasks make a big difference. Christine started as a volunteer counsellor in 1995 after the hospice cared for her dad and has been volunteering ever since, offering patients and families comfort through kindness. For Christine, it’s about honouring her father and giving back. For me, it’s simply doing something kind. Our reasons are different, but both rooted in connection and care. Christine told me it gave her hope to see someone my age involved. That stayed with me. Volunteering proves anyone, at any age, can make a difference. All you need is time and a big heart.
OLIVIA’S DREAMS COME TRUE, THROUGH HOSPICE DEVELOPMENT
Olivia joined the hospice Housekeeping Team in January 2024, she quickly realised that she really loved her time on the Bedded Unit, helping to keep patients’ bedrooms sparkling and spotless for their stay.
So much so, that when we launched our Care Volunteer Programme, she was quick to apply, completing this alongside her Housekeeping role.
“I absolutely loved my time on the programme, it gave me so much fulfilment and made me realise that this is where I wanted to spend all of my time. Being able to chat with patients and families during their most vulnerable time was everything
I had searched for in a career,” said Olivia.
Olivia completed her Care Volunteer Programme in September 2024, and quickly decided a caring role was something she wanted to pursue. So, when the Bedded Unit had a position become available for a Healthcare Assistant, she jumped at the chance.
Olivia concluded: “Getting to spend quality time with our patients is so rewarding, there is nothing quite like the feeling of getting to know them so you can tailor things to their needs and make sure they remain as comfortable as possible. I’ve found my happy place and there’s nowhere I would rather be now!”
BUILDING CONFIDENCE IN END OF LIFE CONVERSATIONS
At North Devon Hospice, we’re committed to sharing our end of life care expertise across nursing homes, care agencies, NHS services, and general practice. Recently, we’ve hosted training sessions for healthcare professionals on various topics, including communication in end of life care.
Rachel, a Clinical Nurse Specialist at North Devon District Hospital, said the session boosted her confidence: “It’s really increased my confidence in having difficult conversations. I learnt not to be afraid of quiet moments, and to use body language to show we’re engaged.”
These courses provide practical skills and space to learn from peers. Find out more at northdevonhospice.org.uk
YOUR HOSPICE IS LEADING THE WAY ACROSS THE UK
Thanks to your incredible support, North Devon Hospice has been named one of the top charities in the whole country! We were recently shortlisted for Charity of the Year at the prestigious Third Sector Awards –
a massive honour that reflects just how much your donations are helping local people when they need it most.
This national recognition came after a standout year for the hospice, where we made big progress across so many areas. We’d used innovative solutions to provide even better care and to raise the funds needed to provide it.
To be recognised alongside some of the UK’s biggest and best charities is a huge achievement, and it’s only been possible because of people like you. We hope you feel proud to be part of something so special.
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