The Raphaelite
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF DR STEVEN MOLYNEUX
CLINICAL LEAD & HEAD OF DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES As a Psychotherapist in palliative care, I know that end of life can have a profound impact on the individual experiencing it and those that support them. We are a small team with a big impact. As the Clinical Lead and Head of Department, I lead and work closely with a team that includes a fellow Psychotherapist, a specialist Palliative Care Social Worker, eight skilled counselling trainees and volunteers, four bereavement volunteers as well as our Pastoral Care Lead, Sister Ann. It’s our job to offer comprehensive, holistic support to all patients in need as well as their loved ones, through any stage required. Tell us a bit about your working day? In truth, I start my day the evening before by checking emails for any urgent referrals or requests, such as a request for a patient who may require more pressing support. I attend numerous team meetings throughout the week, including our Community Multidisciplinary Team meeting (MDT) joined by Doctors, Consultants, Nurses and Healthcare Assistants. We formulate our plans of approach during these meetings, with each of us bringing valued skills and different perspectives to help us plan the best way to support each individual patient and their families. I also have an internal meeting each week with my core team. It’s important as a Head of Department to ensure the wellbeing of my team and that our waiting list of patients and relatives is manageable. I then conduct clinical assessments and allocate them to our exceptional trainee and volunteer therapists who are on clinical placement with us. Additionally, I have my own case load of patients and relatives who I meet face-to-face, via Zoom or over the phone. Home visits are my favourite! What type of counselling do you offer to the community? We offer 1:1 therapy to patients and pre and post bereavement counselling to people connected to them, creating a space for support and understanding, and helping them to face the impact of terminal illness and loss. Therapy is the process of change and it’s never too late to make use of it. I meet with families throughout the day, providing care for the patient and/or their loved ones. We continue to connect with patient's next of kin after they have died, reaching out to share our support if needed. As therapists, we feel it is the greatest privilege to work with people approaching end of life, as they offer a unique perspective as to the meaning and purpose of our lives. It is a hugely rewarding role that extends beyond a job.
how to use different platforms in the best ways and reaching out to everyone who needed us. We responded so brilliantly throughout the Covid-19 crisis. It was hugely important to us to remain a constant support. This time in history has been distressing for our patients and their families, with most of our current work focusing on trauma to support them appropriately through their experiences. What key words would best describe St Raphael’s? Humanity, Humility and Grace. I see these three traits every single day. I have learnt what it means to live by working here. What would surprise people about St Raphael’s? I don’t think people realise how much valuable life is truly lived with hospice care. People often associate hospices with sadness, when in fact they are filled with a happy energy to make the most of each moment. We know everyone here and there is a real closeness. Some days are particularly moving and exceptionally hard. However, through all of the challenges, it is an honour to offer support during these sacred moments. Our patients mean so much to us. It’s something you can feel through the care of each team member. St Raphael’s Hospice is a very special place in which to work. Even after a holiday I look forward to returning. It is a hugely rewarding role and it’s all about relationships. We all work together with a great love for what we do.
May 9th-22nd
Secure the future of your loved ones now!
How did Covid-19 impact your service? At the start of the pandemic, I remember being told on a Tuesday that we were going into lockdown and we had to head home until further notice. It was earth-shaking for us all. By Wednesday morning we were online, learning
Make Your Will Fortnight 2022 Local solicitors are offering their will-writing expertise in exchange for a donation to your local hospice. Get your affairs in order. Make or update your Will this May. For the list of participating solicitors, please contact us on: 020 8254 2450; www.straphaels.org.uk/makeyourwill22
Bereavement Group Session held at the Wellbeing Centre
Book your appointment early, spaces are limited.
www.straphaels.org.uk Registered Charity Number: 1182636
