Message from Amanda Clapham, Head of Fundraising and Communications at Oakhaven Hospice

updated 23rd March 2020

This message goes out to all our wonderful supporters and to those people in our community who need us now, more than ever. With the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) and the situation changing by the hour, we wish to assure you all that our absolute priority is the care and commitment to our patients and their families and carers. We also have a duty of care to our staff and volunteers and do not wish to compromise their safety in any way.

Day Hospice and Coates Centre

During these unprecedented times, we have had to make some difficult decisions about changing the way we work.  At Oakhaven, our Day Hospice has sadly closed temporarily – as has the Coates Centre, for education sessions and various group meetings - but our team are supporting our patients with regular telephone calls and reassuring them that we remain here for them. The majority of our non-clinical staff are working remotely from home. Both of these difficult decisions have been made to reduce footfall on our hospice site.

Inpatient Unit

Presently, our inpatient unit remains open to patients and their visitors but we are taking all precautions to minimise risk with hand cleansing and checking that visitors do not have any coronavirus symptoms.  Visitor numbers may have to be restricted for safety reasons.

Our Community Services are continuing as Clinical Nurse Specialists and Registered Nursing Teams are currently well placed to support patients in their homes. In addition, Oakhaven Care is continuing to support clients with their needs, which is vital for patients who are isolated and in need of help in a variety of ways.

Additional Services

During these particularly worrying times, we are going to be providing additional services for the most vulnerable people in our community. The service will focus on three main areas:

1. Telephone support for those who are isolated, lonely and would benefit from human interaction for mental wellbeing. Our volunteer Hospice Neighbours will be manning this service in shift patterns, where a co-ordinator will be liaising between volunteers and hospice staff
2. The offer of frozen meals, prepared by Oakhaven Kitchen, with delivery to patients’ homes and provided at cost

In addition, we will be looking at how technology can be used to support patients at home - especially those who need clinical advice and support – and offering bereavement support for those who are suffering with more complex bereavement in light of COVID-19 diagnosis and death.

Events, Shops and Fundraising

Finally, a serious worry for Oakhaven is around fundraising income. We are currently postponing or cancelling our events between now and June and will be constantly reviewing the situation. This has serious implications for us as these events would otherwise provide significant income for the hospice. Our charity shops will now be closed to the public. We naturally understand that individuals and businesses have their own concerns at this time. However, we will be doing everything in our power to be there for our community as much as we can,  by the new measures we are taking. We hope that you will kindly continue to be there for us too as we need you now - more than ever.

Thank you and stay safe.