You may have naturally have questions and concerns:
What happens if I cannot cope at home? How will we cope financially?
How can I talk to those close to me? What do we say to the children?
If I come into the hospice, who will look after me when I leave?
These stresses and strains can become difficult to cope with. Talking to a Pilgrims social worker, either alone or with other family members, can help with this. It can also support you to look at all the available options and help with any decisions that need to be made.
Pilgrims social workers offer a range of support
Pilgrims Hospices social workers are part of our wider multi professional team. They give practical and emotional support to patients, their families, carers and friends. The social workers are Social Work England registered and are member of the Association of Palliative Care Social Workers.
A Pilgrims Social Worker can also advocate for or represent you, the patient, and your extended family network. They can help you liaise with:
Local Authority Social Services and Community Health Services regarding help at home or alternative care settings, for example nursing homes.
Voluntary organisations and charities who may be able to provide or advise about financial and practical help eg Citizens Advice Bureau
Employers and schools to help them understand more about the situation
District Councils in Thanet, Ashford and Canterbury and others to assist with housing needs
Download Pilgrims guide for carers
Pilgrims Hospices, together with other local care providers in East Kent, has put together this helpful pack for carers with information and support for you at this time.
This includes guidance on how to have difficult conversations when someone close to you is seriously ill, finances, looking after your own wellbeing and health, and what happens when someone dies.
24hr Pilgrims Hospices Advice Line - 01233 504133