Pendleside Hospice Spring Newsletter 2024

The Pendleside Post

Welcome & Reflection

As we welcome another spring at the Hospice, the thought of warmer weather and brighter days have brought a renewed sense of hope

The Hospice gardens have begun to come to life and it’s always a special time when our patients and their families start to enjoy the outdoor space, once more. This is thanks to the hard work and commitment of our volunteer gardeners, who work tirelessly, come rain or sunshine, to ensure that the gardens look beautiful and are accessible, each year

Inside this newsletter, you will read some stories of the care provided at Pendleside, our service developments over recent months, along with details of the fundraising events planned for 2024

We are also very proud to announce that, following an inspection by the Care Quality Commission, on the 21st February 2024, we were rated ‘Outstanding’. This is a credit to our fantastic and dedicated team of staff and volunteers who strive daily to ensure that the care our patients and their families receive is the best it possibly can be

As I approach my 20th year at Pendleside, I feel very fortunate to have the support of our local community, as none of this would be possible without you. I would like to extend a massive thank you for all you do to support and keep our services running “Because you care, we can”

Helen McVey Chief Executive, Pendleside Hopsice

Interested in Volunteering?

We're always on the lookout for kind and compassionate volunteers to join our dedicated team. We have a range of roles available across various departments. Find out how you can support Pendleside Hospice today.

Get in touch with our Volunteer Coordinator, Lisa Clarke on 01282 440 159 or email lisa.clarke@pendleside.org.uk

SPRING 2024

Harrison Family Honour Mark’s Legacy

We are honoured to have the support of the Harrison family at this year’s Memories On the Lake event. Susan, Michael and their son, Paul, share their story, having tragically lost their son and brother, Detective Mark Harrison, to bowel cancer in September 2021.

The family have reflected on the challenging journey they faced, highlighting the importance of accessible bereavement support, provided by the Hospice.

In August 2020, Mark received the devastating diagnosis of stage 4 bowel cancer. Susan remembers the day vividly, saying, "Mark began experiencing pain and discomfort about a month before his diagnosis. After a couple of visits to his GP, Mark underwent both an ultrasound and CT scan and a week later, he received the heartbreaking news from the doctor.

Mark was deeply loved and respected by many

Mark started chemotherapy as soon as possible, but by July 2021, we were informed that it was no longer working. After the chemotherapy had stopped, Mark was admitted to Royal Blackburn Hospital for a potential clinical trial, but he was not eligible due to his subsequent test results. Care and support was put in place for him, at home, to ensure Mark was comfortable and receiving the right level of medication.

During Mark's final week, the family remained united by his side. How someone dies can have a lasting impact on the family, but surrounded by his loved ones—his wife, Lindsey, and their son, Joshua—Mark found inner peace.

We aim to honour the memory of Mark, fondly referred to as "Harry" by those close to him. He was deeply loved and respected by many, and dedicated himself wholeheartedly to his family, and to his career in the police force.”

Mark spent 16 years with Lancashire Constabulary, starting as a PCSO in Nelson before becoming a Detective in 2019. Outside of work, he cherished family time and often joined in work events.

Mark was a passionate supporter of Burnley FC, holding a season ticket and attending every match alongside his Grandad and brother, Paul. Additionally, he showcased his skills as a player, participating in multiple football teams.

After he passed away, Susan and Michael admitted to feeling numb. Susan said, "After Mark passed away, I received counselling, which provided some relief. But one day, I felt overwhelmed with despair. I called Pendleside Hospice, and they quickly arranged sessions with their Family Support Counsellor, Simon. Their responsiveness and support were exceptional, and I'm grateful for their help."

Mark's father, Michael, adds, "Susan persuaded me to seek help from the Hospice not long after. I wasn't sure what to talk about once I got there, but Family Support Counsellor, Andrea, put me at ease right away. With her support, I compiled photos of Mark and our family, creating a collage of cherished memories."

Mark's brother, Paul, and other family members have recently sought counselling sessions from Pendleside, underscoring the varied impact of grief across different stages of life.

Susan, Michael and Paul along with their family will be in attendance at the Memories On the Lake event, where they'll lay down the first lantern in memory of Mark.

Susan and Michael with their son, Mark

Mark with his wife, Lindsey and son Joshua

Living with Dementia for Michelle and Terry Robbins

Michelle Robbins kindly shares her experience about the care and support both her and husband, Terry, received from Pendleside Hospice

Terry was originally referred via an Admiral Nurse, having been diagnosed with mixed dementia in 2022 Terry initially received complementary therapy with the Health, Wellbeing and Rehabilitation team, as well as attending the weekly ‘Living with Dementia’ Support Group

Michelle also attended the Carers Group at the Hospice every month, adding, "Pendleside is such a warm and welcoming place, I really enjoyed attending the peer support group Terry would be taken care of in one room, while the carer ' s got together in another I always came away feeling much more positive and it reminded me that I wasnt alone "

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Pendleside is such a warm and welcoming place

In the summer of 2022, Terry suffered a fall, which meant he struggled to attend the dementia support group and had to stop Alongside other care organisations, Pendlesides Hospice at Home team got involved in Terry's care, which included respite visits and overnight stays

Michelle added, "Having the extra support from Pendleside meant I could sleep much easier and be in a better mindset for the following day

It's been really beneficial having someone beside me to help make decisions about Terrys welfare In January this year, just before Terry was admitted into hospital with a chest infection, I struggled to get him out of bed I phoned the Hospice and Pam came over to help As Terrys health started to worsen, it became more apparent just how much care he needs and he is now receiving round-the-clock care within a care home

As a carer, it can be extremely challenging, but I have built my own support network and its wonderful to see how many people come and visit Terry

Iftar Collaboration with Marsden Heights Community College

Michelle also shares fond memories of her family, Terry was a keen sportsman! Before I met him, he played professional football for Crystal Palace and he is a big Arsenal fanhe would often travel down to London and back in a day to watch a game! Terry loved to play golf and was made captain of Nelson Golf Club in 1996, where he continued to play regularly until the age of 84

We moved to Burnley in the 80s, where we set up our own business in Barrowford and had a wonderful life travelling the world on various holidays We have two children together and Terry has two sons from a previous relationship Between us we have seven grandchildren and a great grand-daughter, and Im enjoying spending more time with them ”

Pendleside has been a huge help in that time The Hospice team are great ambassadors and a real testament to the charity "

Pendleside Enhances its Dementia Support Services

More than 2,300 individuals living in Burnley and Pendle have been diagnosed with dementia. Recognising the scarcity of specialised support and care services, were working to expand our service provision to bridge the gap

Currently, we run two 12-week programs, on a Tuesday and Friday morning, designed for people living with dementia. In addition, Pendleside facilitates two other groups each month, enabling carers to access emotional and practical support from the Hospice team, as well as their peers

At the end of last year, in partnership with Dementia UK, Rachel Moroney was appointed as Admiral Nurse

Rachel has over 25 years experience working within palliative care and previously worked as a Staff Nurse for 10 years on our Inpatient Unit

“My aim is to improve the experience and outcomes for families affected by dementia. I will support families who are living with dementia, particularly those who have complex needs and are struggling to cope with day-to-day activities. I will provide a full assessment of needs, support, advice and importantly, time. This service will be empathetic, person-centred, holistic, non-judgemental and inclusive to all who need it. I will work with families both within the Hospice and in their own homes

Why are Admiral Nurses so called?

Over 300 individuals joined the Iftar celebration on Wednesday, 20th March; a joint venture between Pendleside Hospice and Marsden Heights Community College

Maria Burnett, Head of Drama at the school, shared her personal connection to Pendleside at the event, expressing gratitude for the exceptional care her late husband, Peter, received at the Hospice in October, 2023

Reflecting on the collaboration, Youth and Community Support Worker of Marsden Heights, Jenefa Begum, said, We have always been aware of Pendleside Hospice and the incredible work that they do, but over the last few months, our connection has strengthened

Our focus is on educating and inspiring our pupils The event was a great moment for us to highlight and make noise about the wonderful work of our local charity Community Engagement Officer, Leah Hooper, added, The young people of our community are our future and the occasion was a great opportunity for us to highlight what services we can provide to our future generation, and their families

A huge thank you to everyone who attended and made it as special as it was

Admiral Nurses are named by the family of Joseph Levy CBE BEM, who founded the charity in his memory. Joseph had vascular dementia and was affectionately known as Admiral Joe, due to his love of sailing

Raising awareness of what support is available for people living within Burnley and Pendle is Rachel’s passion. By sharing patient and family experiences, and listening to their struggles and life experiences, we can start to shape the new service both now and in the future

If you are looking for specialist dementia support, referrals can be made by a relative, carer or health care professional, by emailing pendlesidehosp referrals@nhs net. Alternatively, please call the reception desk on 01282 440 100.

Providing Care, Compassion and Support to

Pendleside exists to promote and enhance the quality of life for people with life-limiting illnesses, as well as their families and carers. Over the last year, Pendleside has cared for more than 1,700 people across Burnley and Pendle.

Michelle & Terry Robbins

Admiral Nurse, Rachel Moroney

Iftar Celebrations at Marsden Heights Community College

Terry Robbins on Day Services

The Eric Wright Charitable Trust

Generously Donates £25,000

Pendleside Hospice was selected as one of the charities to receive a £25,000 donation from The Eric Wright Charitable Trust, an astounding amount which will contribute greatly towards patient care and family support, for people living within Burnley and Pendle The Trust works with a broad range of charities, primarily in the North West of England and each year, they invite nearly 1,000 employees across the Group to nominate a charity of their choice, for a chance to receive £25,000

Kevin Salter, a Senior Site Supervisor at Eric Wright Facilities Management, chose Pendleside, adding, “I nominated the Hospice as my charity of choice because of the exceptional care my wife, Beckie, received Beckie spent nine days in the Hospice before she passed away, but it brings some comfort knowing that she was well cared for and comfortable in her final days ”

Beckie had embarked on a journey to become a social worker before her diagnosis of bowel cancer, commencing on the second year of her degree at UCLan. Prior to this, she

had dedicated her time to raising her children at home, but as they grew older, she sought to pursue a new career path. Unfortunately, Beckie passed away before her graduation, but Beckie and Kevin s daughter attended the ceremony to ensure her mother's scroll was received in her honour

Paying tribute to Beckie and to raise money for the Hospice, Kevin raised £4,500 for Pendleside after completing a 40-mile run via the East Lancashire Health Centres in 2021

Helen McVey, Chief Executive at Pendleside Hospice said, “We are overjoyed with the contribution made to us by The Eric Wright Charitable Trust. We rely heavily on donations and fundraising from both the local community and our network of local businesses, and were delighted to invite members of the Trust to Pendleside, so that they could see the work being done and understand how the charity helps people with lifelimiting illnesses ”

It was quite humbling to tour the Hospice on the day we presented the cheque for the donation,” added George Lilley, Managing

Pendleside Hospice Rated ‘Outstanding' in Latest CQC Inspection

Director of Eric Wright Facilities Management. “The dedication of the staff was so easy to see, and the care they provided to patients was exemplary. I think our employees have chosen very wisely by nominating Pendleside Hospice as their Charity of the Year

Eric Wright Facilities Management have since signed up to Pendleside’s Corporate Challenge; a four-month initiative for local businesses to fundraise as much as they can for the Hospice

We’re delighted to share that the Care Quality Commission (CQC) has rated Pendleside Hospice ‘Outstanding’, following an inspection on the 21st February, 2024

The report indicates that we provide exceptional care and treatment to those who use our services and that we continually support people to make important decisions about their care

It continues by saying that we proactively plan our services and provide care in a way that takes into account, and quickly meets, the needs of people within our Burnley and Pendle communities

As well as our overall rating improving from good to outstanding, our ratings for well-led, effective, caring and responsiveness have also risen from good to outstanding. It was again rated good for being safe

Helen McVey, Chief Executive at Pendleside Hospice said, “It’s an honour to receive an outstanding rating for the care we provide to our patients, service users, carers and families, and it s truly one of the proudest days of my career

This fantastic achievement acknowledges the excellent team work from everyone across the Hospice. Thank you so much to all of those involved, for their hard work and dedication to Pendleside!”

David Brown, Chairman of Pendleside Hospice said, “We have an amazing team of dedicated doctors, nurses, therapists and family support specialists, plus many more staff members behind the scenes such as cooks, cleaners, receptionists, administrators, fundraisers, drivers, retail staff and volunteers

We are delighted that this work has been recognised by the CQC on their recent inspection. One of our core values is “Proud to be Pendleside” and we are certainly all feeling that today

None of this would be possible, of course, without the fantastic support of our local community who fund almost 80% of the work we do. They too should be proud of the contribution they have made ”

to fundraise, and to bring your friends, family or work colleagues together.

Email Sheila to claim yours: sheila.helm@pendleside.org.uk

Looking for a challenge?

Join us for The Great Pendleside Trek! A circular 35-mile endurance event, taking place on Saturday 7th September, starting and finishing at Pendleside Hospice. Take in some of Burnley and Pendle’s most beautiful countryside, including Pendle Hill, while raising money for your local Hospice.

Registration - £30 Adults | £15 Children Fee includes a t-shirt, fundraising pack, first-aid and back-up support, medal, marshals, map, and snacks & refreshments en route. Keep an eye out on our social channels for more information and to learn more about our training guide and Strava group.

Cheque presentation with The Trust and Pendleside Hospice

Beckie in the hospice with her family

Earby Drums Up Ongoing Community Support

In Earby, The Red Lion pub is more than just a local watering hole—it's a hub of generosity. Owners Paul and Maria King have been rallying support for Pendleside Hospice for over a decade, raising almost £16,000. Their flagship event, Kelrock Festival, now in its seventh year, is a sell-out success, featuring live bands, food stalls, and bars. Its inception aimed to fundraise for a defibrillator in Earby after a resident's medical emergency, catalysing ongoing support for both Pendleside Hospice and Derian House Children's Hospice. In 2023 alone, the festival raised an impressive £8,562.

In addition to organising the Kelrock festival, Paul, Maria, and fellow Earby residents have orchestrated various other fundraising initiatives.

Paul and Maria added, "Pendleside Hospice is an outstanding charity that provides invaluable support to our local community. Since assuming ownership of the Red Lion in 2016, we've been moved by the numerous stories shared by our customers about their personal ties to the Hospice.”

Tickets for this year’s Kelrock Festival go on sale at the end of May and can be purchased by getting in touch with Paul and Maria at The Red Lion pub on 07802 901 165.

Personalised Donation Boxes & Favours

Whether you're celebrating a wedding, planning a birthday party or remembering a loved one, we can provide you with personalised donation boxes and favours for your upcoming event.

Contact our friendly fundraising team on 01282 440 120 today or email fundraising@pendleside.org.uk

I Wish We’d Known About Pendleside Sooner

“When life threw challenges our way, Pendleside provided happy memories for our family,” said Janine Bodill. “My father, Allan White, spent four weeks on IPU at the start of this year, and I am so thankful that he got the care he needed in the last couple of months of his life.”

Janine, and her mother, Christine, open up about their positive experience with the Hospice. Allan, was diagnosed with cancer of the soft palate in April 2022, and initially started visiting Pendleside Hospice for complementary therapy. By December 2023, Allan’s health started to deteriorate and he was referred to our Hospice at Home team, who supported both Allan and his wife, Christine.

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My dad thought we initially had to pay for the Hospice’s services, which I think can be quite a common misconception.

““The nurses were wonderful,” said Christine. “They always explained everything so clearly and I was constantly made to feel at ease. By this point, Allan was on multiple types of medication and it became quite overwhelming.”

Taking on the Lakes

Many of our remarkable fundraisers have ventured into the Lake District, to raise vital funds for our Hospice. These unsung heroes are proving that, when it comes to making a difference, there are no limits to what can be achieved.

One such young champion is four-year-old Lily Barlow, who, alongside her family, recently conquered the Big Four, also known as the Ullswater Way. Over four days, Lily embarked on the formidable 20-mile challenge, a true test for little legs, with a goal of £400. Amazingly, Lily raised more than £1,000 in February this year.

Meanwhile, Joe Maden from Barrowford has dubbed his challenge, 'The One-Legged Wainwrights.' Joe, an amputee, is on a mission to conquer all 214 Wainwrights within a 12month period.

Undeterred by his disability, Joe's passion for the great outdoors, and his commitment to supporting Pendleside Hospice, has already raised over £2,500 in donations, with months still ahead on his journey.

“After a while, it was Pendleside who suggested that Allan come into the Hospice to control his symptoms and regulate his medication. He was a little reluctant at first, but it didn’t take long at all for him to feel settled. Allan was so well taken care of - he particularly loved the long, relaxing baths! Due to his diagnosis, Allan had to be on a liquid diet, but Pendleside accommodated for his every need - even surprising him with balloons on his birthday - and a homemade cake for his family to enjoy.”

Janine added, “I wish we’d known about Pendleside sooner. As a small family, the care and support we received has been invaluable. It’s not until you’re involved that you realise what a fantastic facility we have on our doorstep - I just want more people to be aware. My dad thought we initially had to pay for the Hospice’s services, which I think can be quite a common misconception.

People also think that it’s a place where people come to for end of life care, but after 4 weeks of being in the Inpatient Unit, my dad came home. He was feeling a lot better in himself and the Hospice at Home team continued to provide their support.”

Allan passed away peacefully at home in February this year and Janine and Christine cannot express their gratitude enough,

Janine shares, “Pendleside is not what you think it is. However, one thing I’m certain of, is that more people need to know about it. Referrals don’t need to come from healthcare professionals; self referrals and referrals with consent, from friends and family are taken into account.”

Pendleside made me feel like somebody cared,” Christine adds. “The Hospice helped me with those difficult conversations, they supported me with Allan’s medication, and they cared for him in the best way possible.”

Find out more about Pendleside’s services, by visiting our website www.pendleside.org.uk

Next up, Gav and Laura are preparing for their monumental feat of tackling THE LAP in May. This Ultra Trail Marathon entails a full lap of Lake Windermere, taking in all of the fells surrounding it. The total distance is 75KM with 8200 ft of elevation. For Gav and Laura, this challenge holds a deeply personal significance, as Pendleside provided invaluable care and support to Gav's father, David Kelly, during his battle with thyroid cancer in 2019. In honour of David's

memory and the compassionate care he received, Gav and Laura are determined to give back to the charity that meant so much to their family. Every year, we are humbled by the unwavering support of our individual fundraisers. Our charity relies heavily on community fundraising to sustain its services for those in Burnley and Pendle, and these extraordinary efforts make a huge difference in providing care and support to patients and their families.

Janine and Christine with Auxiliary Nurses, Deborah and Richard

Allan White and his wife, Christine

Gav and Laura

Lily Barlow

Joe Maden

Maria and Paul King