Transition drop-in sessions continue to support families

Families whose children are under the care of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) had the chance to find out more about adult hospice care during a special transition drop-in session at Priscilla Bacon Lodge.

Among those to attend were two families currently being supported at The Nook. Bethany Smith was there with parents Steve and Caroline and sister Bonnie, while Brooke Sprawling came along with mum Justine.

Both families had the chance to find out more about transitioning from a children’s hospice, and, as well as taking part in various activities, they had a fun jam session with our Music Therapist, Jane Baker.

Another colleague from the Complementary Therapy team provided relaxing hand massages for parents, and both families met Specialist Palliative Care Pathway Lead for NCH&C, Tracey Dryhurst, and Commercial Director for the Priscilla Bacon Hospice Charity, Fearn Ainsworth.

In addition, they had the chance to be given a guided tour.

Groups and Events Co-Ordinator Clare Oakley attended on behalf of EACH. She said: “It was a very lovely, positive day and a golden opportunity for both families to connect with others and find out more. I feel both came away feeling enlightened and happy with everything they’d seen and achieved. These days are so important in terms of giving families more information about the next step of their hospice journey. It can be a daunting prospect, so hopefully it helped allay their fears and provided an opportunity to have a chat and ask any questions.”

The monthly drop-in sessions, which are aimed at those aged 14 or over, circulate between Priscilla Bacon Lodge, Tapping House Hospice and the Louise Hamilton Centre. They are also attended by a representative from Zest Young Adult Care, which is part of St Elizabeth Hospice, in Ipswich.