Introducing the Mental Health First Aider role to support Pilgrims’ staff and volunteers
The need for mental health support became prevalent during and after the COVID-19 pandemic; in meetings, it consistently came up that staff were feeling exhausted and had low morale. Karena Marks, Clinical Business Manager, was already trained as a Mental Health First Aider (MHFA), and she saw there was a gap it could fill within the charity.
We asked staff for expressions of interest in becoming a MHFA; once a team was in place, they completed a two-day training course to gain the tools needed to support their colleagues and our volunteers. The role is now included within our wellbeing strategy.
Karena explains what the role involves and how it is supporting Pilgrims’ teams:
“All workplaces have a first aider onsite to deal with accidents or injuries. It’s just as important to have someone to help people with their mental or emotional wellbeing, too.
“Mental ill health is the highest cause of sickness absence, and it can affect anyone. Companies are realising that their employees may be struggling to cope, especially in healthcare professions and within the current cost of living crisis.
“High-profile, public figures regularly speak out about their own struggles with mental ill health and social media awareness campaigns are growing.
“There is a dedicated World Mental Health Day on 10th October each year, too.
“We all need to be open about our mental health and willing to create a supportive environment where we can look after each other; this is where the MHFAs come in.
“MHFAs are trained to spot the early signs of mental ill health in others. They are a first point of contact and reassurance for people experiencing emotional distress or suffering with mental health problems including stress, anxiety and depression. This interaction could range from having an initial conversation through to supporting the person to get appropriate help. The MHFA role also acts as an advocate for mental health in the workplace, helping to reduce stigma and cultivate positive change. MHFAs work to create an environment where we are all looking after each other.
“Our MHFAs are not trained counsellors or therapists, but they provide a confidential and safe place to talk and just ‘be’. They take time to listen and give the emotional support needed, without judgement.
“They are also trained to assess the risk of self-harm, physical safety or even a risk to life to you or others around you. If there is a serious concern, this is reviewed confidentially and action will be taken to protect you and/or others. MHFAs know how to contact appropriate emergency services, if required.
“Many people find that just having a supportive, listening ear and a safe space is all that they need, but our MHFAs are available for continued support, if helpful.”
What’s next?
The MHFA role at Pilgrims is constantly evolving; the team meet bi-monthly to discuss how we can ensure everyone is aware that ‘we are here if you need us’.
We are aiming to ensure that the MHFA role is explained as part of our induction for new staff and volunteers, so that new starters know about the support available to them.
We have branded posters and contact cards that will be shared around Pilgrims’ sites, and we’re planning a roadshow – we will visit each site to give out the cards and explain what MHFA is, to further embed the support we offer.
We use relevant apps to ensure we have the latest signposting information to hand when needed.
To find out more about Mental Health First Aid, click here.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress. Care is provided from three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. To offer these services to patients and their families the charity must raise £11 million each year from the generous local community.
23rd February 2023
Peter: “The word ‘hospice’ now fills me with joy”
When Peter Clampitt from Ashford was diagnosed with lung cancer, he was referred to Pilgrims Hospices. After a short stay in the hospice, Peter was able to return home, where he is now being helped to live well with the assistance of carers, home aids, and Pilgrims’ continued support.
He wanted to share his story so that others can learn about the benefits of hospice care.
Peter, a former engineer who worked across the UK and Europe, is originally from Folkestone. He has four children – Nick, Lisa, Emma and Laura – and lives in Ashford with Laura and her two daughters, Lily and Sophia.
Peter was initially admitted to William Harvey Hospital, Ashford. He said:
“I was in a very dark place, the darkest point in my life. Thankfully, the hospital team got me referred to Pilgrims. Death doesn’t frighten me, I’m not worried about it, but I did think that a hospice was a place to spend your last days – so when I first went in, I thought I wouldn’t be coming out.
All the staff have care in their eyes, they just want to look after you. The food is excellent and I had some great conversations with the hospice team; they made me feel really good. Never in all my life have I known people be so kind and caring, they always have smiles on their faces.
Peter
“But when I went through the doors, I thought: “My god, I’m in a palace”. It had an immediate positive effect on me. All the staff have care in their eyes, they just want to look after you. The food is excellent and I had some great conversations with the hospice team; they made me feel really good. Never in all my life have I known people be so kind and caring, they always have smiles on their faces. It’s unbelievable.”
“It was an exuberant experience; when I left, I felt so bubbly, I was bouncing around like an idiot. All the nurses lined up to give me kisses! It was a pleasure to go into the hospice and have my expectations completely changed. The word ‘hospice’ now fills me with joy.”
Pilgrims helped to get Peter’s pain under control and manage his symptoms, and ultimately supported him to return to the comfort of his own home with his family.
He continued: “Each day I spent in the hospice, I felt better and better. Pilgrims arranged care packages for me at home, and also helped to get accessibility aids in place, making it easier for me to do day-to-day things like using the toilet.”
Peter is also enjoying monthly reflexology treatments and would like to try out some of Pilgrims’ wellbeing groups in the future.
Hospices aren’t just somewhere you go at the very end of your life – they can also be a place you go to heal.
Peter
Due to the care Peter is receiving, he and his family are keen to support the charity. His eldest daughter, Lisa, completed the Pilgrims Way Challenge and plans to take part again in 2023. As Peter says: “If everyone helps and does a little bit, it really does make a difference.”
He added: “Hospices aren’t just somewhere you go at the very end of your life – they can also be a place you go to heal. People need to know that. Sometimes, they can heal you more than a hospital.
“My advice to anyone considering a referral to hospice care is: Take it, it’s wonderful. I kept looking at the backs of the Pilgrims nurses to see if they had wings.”
Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of local people each year, free of charge, during the most challenging time in their lives. They offer care and support in people’s own homes, in the community and in their inpatient units as well as running a 24-hour advice line.
22nd February 2023
Pro cyclist Ian Field shares top tips for Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge
After a successful career as a professional cyclist, being 5x British CycloCross Champion and 6x British Series Winner, Ian Field set up ‘Veld Coaching by Ian Field’ to bring together 15 years of racing knowledge and experience in the hope of helping other riders to achieve their goals, too.
After witnessing the exceptional care that his partner’s family members received from Pilgrims Hospices when under their care, Ian wanted to use his cycling expertise to support those taking on the Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge on Sunday 5 May 2024.
We sat down to chat with Ian to find out more about his love for cycling in Kent, and his top tips for those training for Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge:
How did you get into cycling?
“I got into cycling through a friend at school. We went to The Norton Knatchbull School in Ashford, and we started a Cyclocross team together. I really enjoyed riding my bike already, so the idea of being able to race as a career really appealed to me.”
What do you enjoy most about cycling in Kent?
“I have lived in a few different countries, and all over the UK, but I always find myself back in Kent and I love riding my bike here. You have the flat of the Kent weald, the hills of the North Downs and the beautiful coastal routes to choose from. There is a maze of lanes off of the main roads to get lost in, there is something for every kind of cyclist. Every route is picturesque in its own way.”
Why should someone take part in the Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge?
“The Cycle Challenge is a great day out, no matter what route you choose to do! It is a really scenic route and once out of Canterbury, you soon join quiet lanes. Be prepared for some climbing, but for every metre climbed there is a descent to enjoy. The regular food stops keep you going, as well as plenty of encouragement from other riders out on the road.”
What is your advice for anyone taking part in the Cycle Challenge?
My top tips for those taking part in Cycle Challenge would be:
Preparation is key, make sure you’re fuelling your body correctly during training and on the day of the event.
Don’t try anything different on the day, use your training effectively.
During your training, find the most comfortable clothing so that you know you’ll be comfortable in on day, whether you’re doing the 30 or 125-mile route.
Train in all weather conditions so that nothing comes as a surprise on the day.
Try different paces in your training and work out the pace that works best for you, that you can keep up throughout your ride.
Most importantly, don’t forget why you’re riding, and enjoy yourself!
What is your advice on nutrition and fuelling yourself to complete the Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge?
“The key to nutrition and fuelling on the bike is to eat and drink little and often. Keeping things simple in regards to food and drink will also help the body to digest easier. Ideally, you want to start eating and drinking in the first 30 minutes of the ride and continue throughout.”
What clothing advice would you give to someone taking on the Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge?
“I’d recommend that cyclists ride in something that they’ve ridden in before, and that they find comfortable for the correct temperature of the day. If you have some, padded shorts are ideal for a challenge such as this, as they’ll make the ride that bit more comfortable.”
What would you advise someone to carry with them on the day?
If I were taking part in Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge on Sunday 5 May, I would carry with me:
At least one water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the ride.
My favourite cycling snacks.
A spare tube, which is the correct size for the bike I’m riding that day.
A hand pump with tyre levers, just in case of a puncture.
Ian said: “Being in the cycling world for many years, I have seen the number of people who have taken up cycling off the back of the Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge. I am really keen to support this event as it brings the cycling community together, while raising vital funds for end-of-life care in east Kent.”
If you’re looking for a helping hand with your training for the Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge on Sunday 5 May, Ian has kindly put together a training plan to guide you to reaching the finish line!
You can find out more about ‘Veld Coaching by Ian Field’ at veldcoaching.com.
To find out how you can join the Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge on Sunday 5 May 2024, please visit: pilgrimscyclechallenge.org
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to over 2,500 people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
20th February 2023
Broadstairs College student cooks up a storm at Pilgrims Hospices
Broadstairs College student, Jordan Herring is cooking up a storm in Pilgrims Hospices’ Thanet kitchen. The 22-year-old, second year student from Broadstairs, is enjoying undertaking a work placement as part of his Level 2 catering qualification.
Jordan said: “I started my work experience in Pilgrims’ kitchen last year, it’s just one day each week but I’m really enjoying it. I love being part of the team, they are all so friendly; I felt immediately welcome from the very first day.”
Georgie Braithwaite, Pilgrims Head Chef said: “It’s great to have Jordon with us, we are very happy to support him as he learns new skills, and really pleased he feels there are many benefits to learning more about the food requirements of patients here in the hospice.
“Being part of the catering team can be extremely busy and sometimes quite noisy. Jordan has taken everything in his stride and has blended into our team really well even taking the jokes and kitchen banter with huge smiles.
“He needs to complete 100 hours experience as part of his on-going training, we are delighted to support him on his journey forward.
“Jordan will have the opportunity to chat with patients about the dietary requirements and how their individual needs can be catered for in the hospice kitchen.”
Jordan and Georgie in the Thanet hospice kitchen
Pilgrims has worked with Broadstairs College over a number of years and as part of the on-going training, the students have provided an afternoon high tea,complete with waiting staff and a Christmas dinner for patients and staff. “It’s always great to have these lovely treats and we hope the students gain valuable hands-on experience,” Georgie added.
Jordan explained: “I think taking the catering qualification at college was a really good decision. It’s definitely provided me with plenty of skills that we help me through life.
“The work placement was arranged by Natalie, Broadstairs College Work Placement Officer who engages with organisations to match work opportunities to suit people’s personality and style. I think she picked a good match for me!
“The placement has helped me to grow in confidence, and I know the placement is helping me to make a difference to the patients, it has a feel-good factor, and it’s really worthwhile.
“When I’m cooking the time just flies by, there’s no one thing that I’m particularly good at, but I’m absolutely enjoying learning lots of new things with the Pilgrims catering team.”
To find out about current opportunities at Pilgrims Hospices, please visit:
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
17th February 2023
A cut above the rest! Local salon raises thousands for Pilgrims Hospices
Steven James Hairdressing has been perfecting the styles of local residents for no less than five generations of hairdressers!
Starting in 1908 in Palace Street, Canterbury this family-run business was first opened by Henry Flower and his wife, Charity. Fast forward to today, Steven and James Flower now own three premises in Canterbury and Faversham, both barbers and ladies’ salons.
Steven and James Flower along with their dad, Jim are firmly part of the Canterbury and Faversham communities through their salons, but also ensuring they support local charitable causes too.
Pilgrims Hospices has long been supported by the salons’ Christmas raffle, and with the support of their clients getting in the festive spirit, thousands of pounds and vital funds are raised each year.
Community Fundraising Manager, Leila Ilkhan visited the team at the barber shop on Castle Street, Canterbury to accept a cheque for £4,703, the result of their support for Christmas 2022.
Leila said, “Steven James Hairdressing have been supporting Pilgrims Hospices since the late 1990s and have raised nearly £90,000 in vital funds to support local hospice care in that time.”
Steven Flower added: “Once again, our wonderful clients have been extremely generous, helping Steven James Hairdressing to raise such a fantastic amount.”
Their continued support is part of the reason we are able to deliver specialist end-of-life care to thousands of people living with a terminal illness each year and their loved ones in east Kent, helping families to make the most of their time together.
From everyone at Pilgrims Hospices, thank you!
Pilgrims Hospices cares for thousands of local people each year, free of charge, during the most challenging time in their lives. They offer care and support in people’s own homes, in the community and in their inpatient units as well as running a 24-hour advice line.
9th February 2023
Step into a new Spring wardrobe with Pilgrims Hospices’ Sandwich shop
The Sandwich shop team, L-R:
Sandra Culver, Bridie Dodson, Angela Curtis and Louise Harris
The shop will hold a Brand New with Tags event between 23 February – 2 March 2023, when shoppers will be able to purchase new, unworn high street brand items at charity shop prices. These popular events have been running at Pilgrims’ shops across east Kent for several years, enabling the local community to bag a bargain whilst raising vital funds for hospice care.
Jenny Byrne works as Area Support Manager across all 31 Pilgrims’ shops. Her role is varied, and includes helping to streamline shop operations by moving stock, merchandising and working on specific projects, including the Brand New with Tags events.
The Sandwich shop is managed by Bridie Dodson, a Sandwich local, and Louise Harris from Wingham, who are supported by a dedicated volunteer team including Sandra Culver and Angela Curtis. Both Sandra and Angela’s husbands were cared for by Pilgrims; their first-hand experiences inspired them to support the charity.
Angela, a former nurse, midwife and health visitor, said: “What I love about volunteering is seeing regular customers and being part of a team; everyone is supportive and so lovely. I enjoy giving something back, it’s so important. I would tell anyone to give it a go; come in and grab a volunteering form, we would love to have you!”
Jenny added: “Thank you to all our kind and generous supporters; you have enabled us to put on this fabulous Brand New with Tags event at our Sandwich store. We are all looking forward to seeing you when our door opens on 23 February and feel sure you’ll bag a bargain.”
These are just some of the items and outfits that will be available during the event:
Uniqlo ribbed jacket
River Island necklace
Great Plains black and white embroidered dress
Pure wrap top
Topshop tunic dress
Per Una jacket with Alice Rinaldi silk blend daisy top and Red Herring jeans
Per Una jacket with Alice Rinaldi silk blend daisy top and Red Herring jeans BNWT price: Under £45
Topshop tunic dress New: £36 / BNWT price: £12
Pure wrap top New: £70 / BNWT price: £23.50
Great Plains black and white embroidered dress New: £65 / BNWT price: £22
River Island necklace New: £16 / BNWT price: £5.50
Uniqlo ribbed jacket New: £40 / BNWT price: £13
The shop’s Brand New with Tags event will run from Thursday 23 February – Thursday 2 March 2023; visit pilgrimshospices.org/sandwich-bnwt for full details.
Pilgrims Hospices cares for thousands of local people each year, free of charge, during the most challenging time in their lives. They offer care and support in people’s own homes, in the community and in their inpatient units as well as running a 24-hour advice line.