A different kind of care
When people hear they need to be admitted to hospice care, they often picture a hospital ward – cold and clinical. But hospice care is something entirely different. It’s about caring for the person, not just their condition, and offering comfort, dignity, and peace during a challenging time. At the Countess of Brecknock Hospice, our care isn’t confined to four walls. It’s flexible and compassionate, meeting people where they are—whether that’s at home, in our day centre, or even over the phone. We’re here not only for the patient, but for their family too, offering support every step of the way.
How hospice care is different
What makes hospice care stand out? It’s really quite simple. Hospice care is all about making life the best it can be for people living with a life-limiting illness. Our focus is comfort. It’s about treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—not just their symptoms. We focus on what matters most to the person—whether that’s comfort, peace of mind, or enjoying precious time with loved ones.
Where we care: at the hospice, at home, in our day centre, or on the phone
One of the most wonderful things about hospice care is its flexibility. We provide care wherever it’s needed, adjusting to each person’s needs. For some, staying at home feels like the best option, so we bring specialist care right to their doorstep, allowing them to stay close to loved ones and familiar surroundings.
For others, coming to the hospice brings a sense of security, knowing that our team is there to manage and stabilise their symptoms, and often help them feel well enough to return home. We also have a welcoming day centre where patients can enjoy activities, share a meal, and take a break from their routine. It’s a place to relax, chat, or seek reassurance—whatever they need in that moment.
It’s about the family too
Hospice care isn’t just for the patient—it’s for the whole family. We know that when someone is living with a life-limiting illness, it affects everyone around them. We’re here to offer support to the family just as much as the patient, whether that’s emotional support, practical help, or just a safe space to talk.
Pam, whose dad was cared for by our inpatient team, shared, “Without the hospice, I honestly don’t know how we would have coped. They didn’t just care for my dad—they cared for us as a family. It was such a comfort knowing we were never alone.”
Focusing on what matters most
When faced with a serious illness, it’s easy to feel like the disease becomes your identity. That’s why when someone comes to us for care, we don’t just focus on the medical side. One of the first things we do is ask patients to tell us three things about themselves. It’s a simple question, but it helps us understand who they are beyond their illness. It might be their love of gardening, a favourite hobby, or a beloved football team. By listening and focusing on what truly matters to the patient, we can care for the whole person, not just their illness.
Jenny, whose husband received care in our inpatient unit, shared, “We knew my husband wasn’t going to get better, but the hospice team gave him the ability to make choices about his care in his final days. They didn’t treat him like a patient—they cared for him as a whole person, and that made all the difference.”
24/7 support: we’re here when you need us
Life doesn’t stop at 5pm, and neither does hospice care. We’re here 24/7 to support both the patient and their family. Whether that’s a nurse visiting at home, answering a question over the phone, or just offering emotional support when things feel tough, we’re always here for you—day or night.
Jane, whose husband received care at home, said, “Having hospice care available 24/7 was such a relief. It gave us peace of mind knowing that no matter what, there was always someone to turn to for help or advice, no matter the time of day.”
It’s all about the person, not the illness
At the heart of hospice care is a simple but important truth: we focus on the person, not the illness. It’s about seeing beyond the diagnosis and treating the person with dignity, respect, and care. Our goal is to improve the quality of life, no matter how much time someone has left, and to provide comfort and support for the whole family.
Sarah, our Clinical Matron, says, “It’s not just the medical care that makes hospice special; it’s the little things—the chats, the shared moments, and knowing that we can bring some peace during a difficult time.”
A personal approach to care
Hospice care is personal, flexible, and full of compassion. It’s not about the building we’re in; it’s about the person we’re caring for, wherever they may be. Whether we’re providing care at home, in our day centre, or over the phone, we’re here to support the patient and their family every step of the way. It’s a 24/7 service, and it’s all about what matters most to the person in our care. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about fighting the illness—it’s about living well, no matter how much time you have left.
Make a gift in your will
This incredible support would not exist without hospices across the UK, hospice care would not exist without you. A gift in your will helps ensure care at the end of life is here for everyone who needs it, both now and in the future. It’s ours to protect. Help hospice care live on for all, for now, forever.
Find out more about making a gift in your will
