Life Matters Q&A

For this edition we chatted with Rebecca, one of our counsellors. She runs the Hospice Bereavement Counselling Group, which supports both patients and their families, helping them deal with the feelings they might be experiencing.

Although Rebecca started her role at the Hospice quite recently, (in July 2022), she volunteered with us back in 2017 whilst on a placement for her training.

Why did you apply for the job at the hospice?

During my training I wanted to come to a hospice as I felt it would enhance my learning to work with those at the end of life. I wanted to understand what a hospice is. Through that experience I discovered that I find it really rewarding to help people at this important stage of life.

What is the nicest part of working at the hospice?

I love being part of the hospice team; everyone is so kind and all their roles are vital and valid and being part of that is something special. It is such a collaborative environment.

What would you like people to know about the service you provide?

That we are here for them; the people we reach really appreciate the service we offer. People relish the opportunity to say things that they might not be able to say to their family. It’s a privilege to support them to open up.

What has surprised you most about the hospice?

The people - how wonderful the staff all are, without each other we wouldn’t be able to deliver in the same way. Everyone is accepted for who they are and what they do

What would you change instantly at work if you could?

I love what I do but I always want to do more, to spend more time with people, to open more doors and to do more so having more resources to help people would be amazing.