27th March 2024

    Pilgrims Hospices new model of care launched to attract nursing and medical staff.

    RECRUITMENT CAMPAIGN AND NEW MODEL OF CARE LAUNCHED TO ATTRACT MORE NURSING AND MEDICAL STAFF TO CAREERS IN PALLIATIVE CARE 

    Pilgrims Hospices is embarking on an ambitious recruitment drive to support transformative changes aimed at enhancing end-of-life-care and attracting more nursing and medical staff to palliative care roles. 

    The charity will expand its clinical workforce to achieve a truly multidisciplinary senior leadership team that leads on strategic and organisational service development for supportive and end-of-life care in East Kent. This will include the recruitment of three nurse consultants who will take on important decision-making powers for in-patient care and community outreach services. In addition, there will be opportunities for more palliative care consultants and middle grade doctors to join the team.  

    Working with us offers unique benefits, including the time to provide truly compassionate care, which may not be achievable elsewhere. 

    Dr Pia Amsler, Director of Medicine, Pilgrims Hospices, said: “We are committed to delivering the highest quality hospice care for the people of East Kent, and have consistently enjoyed strong support from the community for our vital services. However, like many hospices nationwide, we face challenges in attracting suitable candidates for key clinical roles. 

     

    “We have undertaken a thorough review of our structure and care model to future-proof our services and create more opportunities for healthcare professionals seeking to advance their careers. We want to dispel the view that there is not a career path in hospice care compared to the NHS. Working with us offers unique benefits, including the time to provide truly compassionate care, which may not be achievable elsewhere. 

     

    “The newly created nurse consultant positions represent senior roles focused on frontline patient care, offering an attractive alternative to traditional management paths. This investment in our workforce reflects our commitment to supporting career progression within our organisation.” 

    The transition to a new care model will ensure the sustainability of in-patient and community services while offering enhanced career pathways for ambitious nursing and medical professionals. It also supports the changing demands and needs of people living longer with increasingly complex care needs. In future, each hospice site will have a shared medical and nurse consultant leadership team plus a Medical Director who will oversee care. Salaries will be competitive with NHS rates. 

    For full details on available vacancies and further information about working at Pilgrims Hospices, please visit our website: www.pilgrimshospices.org/about-us/work-with-us/ 


    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. 

     

    18th March 2024

    Pilgrims Hospices wins prestigious Joanna Mugridge Research Award

    Pilgrims Hospices is thrilled to announce their joint first place victory in receiving the esteemed Joanna Mugridge Research Award at the recent Marie Curie Conference held in February. Their winning entry, the poster titled “Early Primary Care and Hospice Engagement with Patients to Think, Talk, or Act on End of Life Care Needs: The ‘Talk’ Pilot,” captivated judges and attendees alike with its innovative approach and impactful findings.

    The announcement, made during the conference in early February, marked a significant achievement for the ‘Talk’ evaluation team at Pilgrims Hospices, working with the Centre for Health Services Studies, University of Kent on evaluating the pilot. The team’s poster was one of 67 at the conference, reviewed by a panel of judges.

    The Joanna Mugridge Research Award, established in memory of Joanna, a dedicated nurse at the Marie Curie Hospice in Caterham, serves to honour her legacy and unwavering commitment to serving individuals and families affected by cancer. Created by her family, following Joanna’s passing in May 2000, the award aims to support the vital work of Marie Curie and its researchers in advancing palliative care.

    We are delighted to have received this recognition for the poster, it will inform the development of our Talk project within our region, moving forward, which supports earlier identification and referral of patients who need our hospice services”

    Charlotte Brigden – Pilgrims Hospices Research Facilitator

    Presented annually at the Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Conference, the award recognises outstanding contributions to research in the field of palliative care. It not only celebrates excellence but also provides recipients with resources to further their research, education, and professional development.

    Doctor Andrew Thorns, Pilgrims Hospices Consultant in Palliative Care and Research Lead, expressed: “I’m so pleased for the project team, this is recognition of a great idea, lots of work, and the start of things to come—well done!”

     

    Pilgrims Hospices extends heartfelt gratitude to Joanna Mugridge’s family for their invaluable support in perpetuating research efforts aimed at enhancing end-of-life care. The recognition received for their “Talk” pilot project underscores the team’s dedication to improving patient outcomes and fostering compassionate care practices. Pilgrims hope to share this information more widely moving forward.

    For those interested in learning more about Pilgrims Hospices’ impactful work in end-of-life care, please visit www.pilgrimshospices.org.

     


    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. 

     

    Finding purpose and fulfilment: Lizzie’s Journey at Pilgrims Hospices.

    Within the embrace of Pilgrims Hospices in Ashford, amidst the corridors, therapy rooms, and family areas, a beacon of warmth and compassion shines through the dedicated efforts of individuals like Lizzie Threlfall. Lizzie, a vibrant and empathetic 25-year-old, is not just another student on placement; she’s a testament to the transformative power of heartfelt care and genuine dedication.

     

    With a Psychology First Class Honours Degree already under her belt and now pursuing a Master’s in Social Work at the University of Kent, Lizzie found herself drawn to Pilgrims Hospices for her first placement. Hailing from Maidstone, the opportunity to immerse herself in the hospice’s social work team felt like fate knocking at her door.

    “I was a little apprehensive at first,” Lizzie admits, reflecting on her initial impressions. “You have your own image of a hospice before you’ve been involved with one. It was totally new to me. But I thought, why not give it a go?”

    From the moment she stepped through the doors, Lizzie was enveloped by a sense of belonging. The warmth of the team and the genuine welcome she received dispelled any doubts she had. “I was taken by surprise, very much so,” she shares. “I never expected to feel so drawn to working here. In fact, I don’t want my placement to end.”

    “Each day is different,” she says with a smile. “You never know what each new day will bring, and I love that.”

    What struck Lizzie most was the stark contrast between Pilgrims Hospices and other environments she had encountered. “Most areas are very procedural,” she explains, “but here, it’s much softer. You have the real opportunity to become a genuine social worker, putting the person at the centre of all you do.”

    The diversity of experiences at Pilgrims Hospices has been a revelation for Lizzie. “Each day is different,” she says with a smile. “You never know what each new day will bring, and I love that.”

    Lizzie’s enthusiasm for her work is contagious, spreading even to her fellow students. “I’ve been sharing my experiences with them,” she says, “and they’re amazed at the depth of learning and emotional connection we foster here.”

    Indeed, Lizzie’s journey at Pilgrims Hospices has been one of growth and enlightenment. She speaks passionately about the invaluable tools she’s gained, particularly in communication. “Patients have so many different issues to deal with,” she explains. “Being able to effectively communicate and advocate for them is crucial.”

    “I never considered palliative social work before,” she admits, “but now I can’t imagine being anywhere else.”

    But beyond the skills and knowledge acquired, it’s the sense of purpose and fulfilment that resonates most deeply with Lizzie. “Working here has reaffirmed my passion for helping others,” she reflects. “It’s not a depressing place, as some may assume. It’s a happy and safe environment, where everyone is supported.”

    As Lizzie looks ahead to completing her Master’s and embarking on her career as a qualified social worker, her heart remains with Pilgrims Hospices. “I never considered palliative social work before,” she admits, “but now I can’t imagine being anywhere else.”

    With gratitude in her heart and determination in her stride, Lizzie Threlfall is not just a social work placement student; she’s a shining example of the profound impact one individual can have in the lives of others. And as she dreams of joining the Pilgrims’ team permanently, there’s no doubt that her journey has only just begun.

    If you are interested in learning more about the many roles on offer at Pilgrims Hospices, including volunteer opportunities visit: Work-with-us


    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 supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.

    4th March 2024

    Gear up for good: Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge returns for the 14th year!

    Pilgrims Hospices is thrilled to announce the 14th annual Cycle Challenge, set to take place on Sunday, May 5th, 2024. This renowned event continues its tradition of raising vital funds to support the skilled and compassionate care within the three hospices and across the communities of east Kent.

    Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge has become a staple in the region, attracting cyclists of all levels from near and far to embark on a journey of camaraderie and support for a worthy cause. Over the years, this event has garnered immense support, with participants, sponsors, and volunteers coming together to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those facing the last year of life.

    This year, we’re cranking it up with as many as 1,200 riders ready to conquer routes that wind through scenic landscapes and charming villages in east Kent. Whether you’re an experienced rider seeking a challenging route or a novice cyclist looking for a leisurely ride, there’s something for everyone at the Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge.

    Ride it your way by choosing one of five ride distances and routes,

    The Circuit: 30 miles

    The Classic: 50 miles

    The Challenge: 75 miles

    The Century: 100 miles

    The Epic: 125 miles

    “We’re thrilled to host our 14th annual Cycle Challenge, continuing our mission to provide compassionate care and support to individuals facing life-limiting illnesses,” said Sue Sharp, Director of Income Generation at Pilgrims Hospices. “The Cycle Challenge not only raises vital funds for hospice care but also brings our community together in a spirit of unity and generosity.”

    Early birds get the worm, or in this case, a spot on the start line on the 5th May! Secure your saddle and start revving those fundraising engines to support hospice patients and their families. Funds raised from the Cycle Challenge will go directly towards providing essential services, including medical care, counselling, and support programs, ensuring that individuals facing a life-limiting illness receive the compassionate care they deserve.

    Pilgrims Hospices extends its gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and volunteers for their incredible support, which enables the charity to continue its invaluable work in the community.

    For more information about Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge and to register, please visit www.pilgrimshospices.org/cyclechallenge or contact the Pilgrims Hospices Fundraising Team at [email protected].

    Join us on May 5th, 2024, as we pedal for a purpose and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.


    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 supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.

    1st March 2024

    Local solicitors partner with Pilgrims Hospices for Make a Will Month 2024

    This April, the people of east Kent are invited to participate in Make a Will Month 2024, a charitable initiative led by Pilgrims Hospices, in collaboration with local solicitor firms. During this month-long event, participating solicitors will generously donate their time and expertise to write and review Wills, waiving their usual fee in exchange for donations to Pilgrims Hospices.

    For over a decade, Pilgrims Hospices has provided invaluable support to the local community by offering the opportunity for individuals to ensure their affairs are in order and their wishes are fulfilled through the Make a Will Month initiative. Since its inception, the scheme has raised an impressive £200,000 and assisted over 1000 people in east Kent.

    In preparation for this year’s Make a Will Month, participating solicitors were invited to the Thanet Hospice Therapy Centre in February. During the gathering, they had the opportunity to learn more about the vital care provided by Pilgrims Hospices and discuss the upcoming scheme over breakfast. Ellie Cane, Individual Giving Manager, expressed gratitude to the solicitor firms for their continued partnership, emphasising the significant impact their support has on patients and their loved ones.

    The following solicitor firms are generously participating in Make a Will Month 2024:

    • Boys & Maughan
    • Girlings Solicitors
    • Pengelly & Rylands
    • Prospero Solicitors
    • Stilwell & Singleton
    • Whitehead Monckton

    Appointments for Make a Will Month 2024 are now available and can be booked directly with your preferred solicitor. For more information on the participating solicitors and their contact details, as well as suggested donation amounts, please click here.

    Make a Will Month 2024 presents a unique opportunity for individuals to secure their future, while supporting the compassionate care provided by Pilgrims Hospices to those facing life-limiting illnesses in the local community.


    Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate end-of-life care and support to individuals and their families across east Kent. With a team of dedicated staff and volunteers, Pilgrims Hospices offers a range of services aimed at enhancing quality of life and providing comfort during difficult times. To learn more, why not take a virtual tour of our hospices.

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