Each year, Pilgrims Hospices support thousands of people across east Kent who are living with life-limiting conditions.
Although hospice care is often associated with beds on in-patient wards, much of Pilgrims’ care takes place in the community – in people’s own homes, and in care homes.
Thanks to skilled, compassionate and dedicated community teams, Pilgrims is able to bring hospice care directly to patients who wish to remain at home, or in familiar surroundings, rather than be on a ward. This includes Hospice at Home, a team of Healthcare Assistants (HCAs) who attend to patients who are at the very end of their life and/or who have suddenly, rapidly deteriorated.
Jo Cottam, a retired NHS Senior Manager turned holiday let owner from Tenterden, experienced Pilgrims’ community care after her mum, Patricia Edwards, was diagnosed with vascular dementia. She shares how Pilgrims supported her mum and their family at the end of Patricia’s life.
Jo shares her story:
“In 2019, my mother was diagnosed with vascular dementia. She lived in a charming cottage on our property, spending her days with us in the main house and returning to her cottage at night.
In early July 2025, Mum’s health took a concerning turn. She stopped eating for about a week, drank less than we hoped, and lost her mobility, making walking (especially navigating steps between our house and her cottage) extremely difficult and distressing for her. My husband, Simon, and her carer, Steve, provided essential support, but we grew increasingly worried.
We decided to keep Mum in her cottage full-time, as moving her was too challenging. This meant constant supervision, as she couldn’t be left alone. Encouraging her to take fluids was a slow, painstaking process of syringing small amounts into her mouth. On 10 July, we called our GP, who visited promptly. He prescribed antibiotics for a possible UTI, end-of-life medications, and arranged a referral to Pilgrims’ Hospice at Home team.
Jo’s mum, Patricia
After a three-day course of antibiotics, Mum began to improve, slowly resuming eating and drinking.
Soon after, I received a call offering additional care support, which we desperately needed. Mum required physical assistance to move between her bed and sofa, constant prompting to eat and drink, and round-the-clock supervision.
Unfortunately, the caller later informed us that no additional care could be arranged immediately, though an equipment assessment was scheduled for the next day.
To our surprise and relief, that evening, two wonderful Hospice at Home carers, Jo and Sandra, arrived and said they would visit Mum twice daily. I was initially apprehensive, as Mum was used to familiar faces, but Jo and Sandra’s warmth and gentle introductions put her at ease. Mum smiled and co-operated fully, a testament to their kind and professional approach.
Over the next few weeks, every pair of hospice carers who visited showed the same compassion, treating Mum with dignity and respect.
They also supported our family, offering practical advice and emotional reassurance in overwhelming moments.
As a former Senior NHS Manager with over 25 years of experience, and with my husband, a retired Consultant Anaesthetist, we both recognise exceptional care when we see it. The hospice carers delivered first-class service.
We were astonished to learn they travelled significant distances to reach us in Tenterden, covering a vast geographical area. The team, led by the remarkable Mandy Hilden, exemplified dedication. Mandy’s hands-on leadership was inspiring – she never asked her team to do anything she wouldn’t do herself.
The carers went above and beyond, ensuring Mum was clean, dressed in her preferred clothes, and had her hair washed and styled. They made her laugh and calmed her anxieties, especially when she became distressed during repositioning, gently reassuring her even when she grabbed them in fear.
The rapport we built with the hospice carers in such a short time was extraordinary.
On 24 July 2025, Caitlin, a Palliative Specialist Care Nurse from Pilgrims, visited to assess Mum for potential future hospice care. Caitlin’s professional yet friendly demeanour brought smiles to Mum’s face. She patiently explained everything and answered our questions thoroughly. At the time, Caitlin was optimistic about Mum’s condition, believing hospice care wouldn’t be needed soon.
Tragically, on 29 July 2025, Mum passed away suddenly and peacefully at home, with us by her side, holding her hand. Caitlin, upon hearing the news, called to offer her condolences and support. Her kindness, taking the time to listen and guide me toward the hospice’s counselling services, meant the world during such a shocking and painful moment.
Pilgrims is an exceptional organisation, dedicated to supporting individuals with terminal illnesses, offering compassionate care in both community settings and specialised units. They prioritise the needs and dignity of each person, ensuring the highest quality of care during their final days.
Additionally, Pilgrims provides a nurturing environment for families, fostering support and understanding throughout the process.
The hospice team’s communication, care, and support for both Mum and our family were exceptional. We are immensely grateful for this vital service, which relies so heavily on charitable donations. Their compassion and professionalism made an unbearable time more bearable, and we cannot thank them enough.”
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to thousands of people in east Kent each year who are living with life-limiting conditions. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Canterbury, Thanet and Ashford. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
7th October 2025
Michael: “Pilgrims care makes me feel at ease”
Michael Taylor was diagnosed with liver cancer in 2015. Initially given a 5-year prognosis, he exceeded this, and continues to live well at home in Herne Bay with support from Pilgrims Hospices.
Born in Bromley, Michael was raised by his mother, Winifred, and many doting aunts and uncles. His father, John James Taylor, was a firefighter, but sadly died aged 28, when Michael was just three days old.
After marrying his wife, Brenda, the couple moved to Faversham and started their own family, welcoming three children – Helen, Paul, who sadly died of cot death aged 14 months, and Rachel – and now have five grandchildren.
Michael and Brenda on their 50th wedding anniversary
Michael was referred to Pilgrims in 2021 and attended Time to Create, therapeutic art groups that run at the Therapy Centres on each hospice site, offering relief from the challenges of living with a terminal illness. By then, Brenda had Alzheimer’s disease, but she was able to accompany Michael to the groups.
Michael said: “The Pilgrims team was extremely good; they sat and chatted with Brenda while I got on and did my own thing. I enjoyed it very much.
“The food was so lovely too, beautiful! Especially the cheese omelettes. We attended Time to Create for quite a long time, but it eventually got too much for Brenda, so I stopped for a few years.”
Michael enjoyed a long career as an architectural technician. Initially working in London and Kent, he eventually ran his own practice – Rowlett and Taylor – in Broadstairs with his colleague, Malcolm. He continued to draw, paint and build models into his retirement, so Time to Create appealed to his natural artistic flair. He credits Pilgrims with getting him back into his creative hobbies:
“After Brenda went into a nursing home, I had a phone call from Elizabeth in the Pilgrims Wellbeing team asking if I’d like to re-join Time to Create.
“Pilgrims provided a taxi for me, which was amazing. I hadn’t done any art or drawing, hadn’t touched a paintbrush or pencil or anything, in those two years since I’d stopped going. That phone call from Elizabeth got me right back into it; making art at Pilgrims again got me completely turned around.
“I’m a bit of a loner, so I had just been sitting in a chair for two years doing absolutely nothing, and now I can’t stop painting and drawing!”
Michael Taylor Artwork 5
Michael Taylor Artwork 6
Michael’s artwork
Michael has been so well supported that he no longer feels he needs to attend the hospice Wellbeing groups, as Pilgrims has helped enable him to live comfortably at home. He does his own cooking, and has carers and a cleaner for extra support. He also enjoys visits from his children and grandchildren.
Michael now plans to attend his local Age UK group, which meets on Tuesdays, offering the chance to socialise with others and enjoy lunch together.
Michael continues to paint and draw, which is helping him to live as well and independently as possible. He recently sketched Herne Bay train station for his local model railway club, and is also a talented pianist; a church organist for 60 years, he now plays for his own pleasure.
Michael Taylor Artwork 7
Michael Taylor Artwork 3
Michael Taylor Artwork 2
Michael Taylor Artwork 1
Michael’s artwork
Although Michael doesn’t feel he needs Pilgrims at the moment, he knows he can access their support in the future:
“I’m not worried about death (can’t say I’m looking forward to it or wishing it was tomorrow!), but it doesn’t bother me because I have a strong Christian faith. I feel at ease, because if my health deteriorates, I can contact the hospice and go back into their care. Everybody I’ve met at Pilgrims is so kind – from the receptionists, to the catering and care teams, and everyone in between. They always make the time to sit and talk to me, even if they’re rushed off their feet.
“I would say to anybody who is in my situation – who is lonely and has lost interest – to ask Pilgrims about their Wellbeing groups, because I have found them really worthwhile. They get you out of yourself, and I’m so grateful to Pilgrims for inviting me to get involved.”
For more information on Pilgrims Hospices’ Wellbeing Programme:
Call the Pilgrims Hospices Advice Line on 01233 504 133
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
6th October 2025
Lily’s nursing journey at Pilgrims Hospices: “I’m lucky and honoured to be part of such an incredible team”
Lily Epps from Hythe was inspired to become a nurse after witnessing the care her mum, Ruth, received from Pilgrims Hospices when Lily was just 18 years old.
Initially training in Brighton, Lily moved home after six months and transferred to Canterbury Christ Church University to support her family after her mum died.
Lily shares why she chose to specialise in palliative care, and what she finds so rewarding about her role.
What drew you to palliative care, and why did you decide to work at Pilgrims Hospices?
Ruth and Lily
My mum was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer when I was 7; she was brilliant and resilient, and outlived an initial three-year prognosis by several years.
After conventional treatment and receiving the all clear, Mum went into remission and began experimental treatments. She worked closely with King’s College Hospital and took part in multiple trials; this fascinated me as I was growing up.
Unfortunately, the treatment didn’t work as we’d hoped, and Mum was referred to palliative care. I remember the Pilgrims nurses coming to visit her in our lounge, they always had an incredible aura of compassion. This really humbled me, and I wanted an opportunity to give back.
My mum always said it was the nurses who would make or break her day, and I strive to be a nurse that makes our patients’ days – especially in their final few days, when it is truly imperative.
I’m lucky and honoured to be part of such an incredible team at Pilgrims; everyone I work with is an inspiration, and so passionate about the care they give.
Lily Epps With Her Mum Ruth Epps 5
Lily Epps With Her Mum Ruth Epps 4
Lily Epps With Her Mum Ruth Epp 3
What does a typical day include for a Pilgrims nurse?
On the in-patient unit (IPU), we start the day with a cuppa to take to handover, which starts at 07:30am. One nurse takes charge and attends morning meetings which includes a whole multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting, while a second nurse completes the morning medication round.
Depending on patients’ abilities, we’ll help our Healthcare Assistants (HCAs) to shower and bathe them. This is followed by a quick catch-up on the ward so that everyone is aware of any admissions or outstanding jobs, then we tag team going for a quick break before starting the lunchtime medication round.
In the afternoon, we update syringe drivers. We also complete pending discharge paperwork and give any medications needed. We focus on “what matters to me” for each patient, every day; this may be a very small goal, like having a bath, but it can completely change how they feel.
We always try our best to facilitate birthdays and wedding anniversaries. Our catering team provide beautiful cakes that can be enjoyed by families in the garden or in our lovely rooms. Even on long days, the evening quickly comes around, and we enjoy dinner before completing another medication round, settling patients, and handing over to the night staff.
What are the best things about being a nurse at Pilgrims?
Everything is amazing – including the food!
The whole team is incredible, from volunteers to social workers, wellbeing practitioners to consultants. It feels like a family. I’ve never worked anywhere so inclusive; everyone is so lovely, bubbly, down-to-earth and supportive. We all care about the patients and each other, which is clear on a daily basis.
I get more than seven weeks’ holiday per year, which shows how Pilgrims’ care and support extends to staff, too.
They also hold staff celebration days, and twice a year we’re offered therapeutic treatments like massage or reiki that fit around our working day.
What has your role involved and what have you learnt through working at Pilgrims?
I’ve learnt so much in my role at Pilgrims, mostly about different conditions, symptom control and treatment options. Every day is different. Most patients on the IPU come in for symptom control and usually stay with us for around two weeks, whereas the timeframe for our end-of-life patients varies.
I’ve worked with the Outcome Assessment and Complexity Collaborative (OACC) group. This is the collection of data used to measure, demonstrate, and improve the quality of palliative care for patients and their families by assessing clinical outcomes, symptom burden, and the complexity of care.
I also help the team to complete the Integrated Palliative Outcome Scale (IPOS)for patients. An IPOS allows us to integrate our care and ensure we aren’t missing anything, guaranteeing our patients are put first and that we continue to improve and meet their needs.
Do you have any favourite memories or anecdotes from your time at Pilgrims?
Simple things really bring me joy at Pilgrims.
Heart-shaped tattoo inspired by a patient’s legacy work
When patients come to us, they’ve often given up; they’ve been bed-bound and stuck inside for weeks. The light in their eyes when you say they can be wheeled outside on their bed and feel the sun on their face again leaves you with no words, and then there’s the cheeky smile when you offer a patient a beer or a glass of wine – these small things make working at Pilgrims so special.
We had an incredible patient who used to be a chef; as part of her legacy, she worked closely with our wonderful occupational therapy team to create a cookbook that is now sold on Amazon and can be shared with her children.
We helped a patient and her daughter do finger prints as part of the patient’s legacy work. The daughter got this as a tattoo in a heart shape, and her mum was able to see it before she died.
We helped to organise a patient’s birthday celebration in their room on the ward. She had two young sons, and one of them had his birthday shortly afterwards, so we did another celebration for him, too.
We decorated their mum’s room whilst she was showering, then surprised her and sang happy birthday; it was a beautiful moment.
A patient’s birthday celebration on the Ashford hospice ward
One patient, Celia, and her husband, Robert, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary whilst Celia was in the hospice.
We’d had to remove Celia’s wedding ring because her fingers were swollen. I didn’t want that to be her memory of her final wedding anniversary, so I asked the kitchen to organise a surprise afternoon tea and help me set it up in the garden, and they whizzed up scones and finger sandwiches.
Celia had been bed-bound for a week, but she wanted to go outside, which we discovered via her IPOS (this is why they’re invaluable, and make the hospice so unique). We washed and dressed Celia, then carefully transferred her from her bed into the garden. Robert met us outside with the afternoon tea all set up and decorated just for them.
It’s such a happy place to work; no one wants their final days to be sad, humans are so resilient, and it’s humbling and inspiring being part of the hospice team.
Lily with Celia and Robert at their 50th wedding anniversary afternoon tea
Did you have any preconceptions about hospice care before you worked at Pilgrims?
I was lucky to experience the hospice as a visitor prior to joining the team, as I’d seen first-hand what a joyful environment it is.
People often have the misconception that hospices are all doom and gloom, but in reality they shine such a bright, positive light.
Of course there are hard days, but they bring the team closer together, as it’s such a supportive environment. There can be hard conversations, too, but you are supported to have them, with the opportunity to debrief afterwards.
Most patients understand why they’re here and just want to enjoy their final days, so it’s important to put them first and try make their wishes come true.
Why is hospice care important?
There is no greater privilege than supporting someone through the final days of their life. Pilgrims promote quality of life; we try our best to ensure patients don’t suffer, supporting them to die with peace and dignity. Although patients are our priority, we’re holistic in our approach; families are an extension of our patients, so when a patient dies, we continue to care for family members who need us.
The services that Pilgrims offer always melt my heart.
Stepping Stones is a bereavement support group run by the wonderful Annie Hogben, Expert Volunteer Development Lead, which is available to any adult living in east Kent, even if their loved one was not a patient of the hospice.
Another element I find so wonderful about Pilgrims is their legacy work; from hand casting and creating family trees, to voice recordings through the Blackbird Projectthat can be cherished forever.
This is all provided by the charity, which I think is truly incredible, and shows how unbelievably special Pilgrims is.
Pilgrims Hospices is currently recruiting for Registered General Nurses at our Ashford hospice.
If you have relevant experience and have been inspired by Lily’s story:
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to thousands of people in east Kent each year who are living with life-limiting conditions. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Canterbury, Thanet and Ashford. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
12th September 2025
“I can’t praise the hospice highly enough”: Why David is leaving a gift to Pilgrims in his Will
Pilgrims Hospices cared for David’s wife, Dawn, at the end of her life.
Here, David shares why he has chosen to leave a gift in his Will to Pilgrims.
“My wife, Dawn, battled cancer for 14 years and sadly passed away on 23 July 2024. The service and support that the Pilgrims team provided from the Margate hospice as part of Dawn’s Hospice at Home care package was exemplary. At a time when I was very stressed and highly emotional, the help and understanding that these very kind people gave me was very comforting. My wife was very well cared for and had a perfectly dignified passing and for that I shall be eternally grateful to you.
I would strongly recommend that people should consider leaving something in their Will to Pilgrims Hospices, however small. Pilgrims is a charity, and whilst they do provide a free service to those people who need their help and support at such an emotional time, it shouldn’t be forgotten that it does cost money to actually provide that help and support. They need to continually raise money to continue financing that service.
A personal big thank you for all the help and support that I received from the Pilgrims team. I couldn’t have got through my Dawn’s end-of-life without it. I can’t praise the hospice highly enough.”
–David, Dawn’s husband
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to more than 3,000 people in east Kent each year who are living with life-limiting conditions. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Canterbury, Thanet and Ashford. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
7th August 2025
Pilgrims Hospices help John and Virginia create poignant legacy with hand casting
John Godden, from St Mary’s Bay, a coastal village on Romney Marsh, is being supported by Pilgrims Hospices to live well alongside managing a life-limiting illness.
John enjoyed a long career in property maintenance, but now has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pulmonary hypertension, which means he has to take each day at a much slower pace.
John and Virginia in the Ashford hospice garden
John said: “Retirement wasn’t in my plans! I loved my job, it was very physical and kept me active, but when I turned 70, my health took a turn.
“I was hospitalised for seven weeks due to a bad chest infection and high CO2 levels. Whilst there, a consultant mentioned referring me to the hospice. I was quite poorly and no one was sure if I’d pull through, but I did. Once I’d been discharged from hospital, I spoke to Pilgrims. I met their community team, they got to know me and explained how it would all work. A Pilgrims nurse contacts me every two weeks to check in, ask how I’m doing and find out if I need any extra support. It’s very helpful.”
John and his wife, Virginia, are making the most of Pilgrims’ varied offerings at their local hospice in Ashford. John benefitted from a breathlessness management group, which has given him useful tools to manage his symptoms at home. He is signed up for a mindfulness class in the near future, which he is looking forward to. Virginia accesses a carers support group and plans to have counselling sessions, too. The couple also attend Time to Create therapeutic art groups run by the Wellbeing team, where they have been able to create a cast of their interlinked hands, a poignant keepsake to take home and treasure.
John continued: “The groups are so important to me because they get me out. I’ve met some wonderful people; the staff here at amazing, the other people who attend are lovely. It’s a really friendly environment. The hand casting was particularly special because it’s all about connection, being close to each other, holding hands. It’s amazing how it catches all the fine details.”
Hand casting is a powerful legacy activity, providing families with a tangible memento of their loved ones. The process offers the opportunity to connect, interact and share stories and anecdotes, bringing people together at what is often a challenging time. Pilgrims can only offer this service through the support of its generous community, and the charity is truly grateful to anyone who purchases a kit via its Amazon Wish Listfor patients and families to benefit from.
John and Virginia with their hand cast
Virginia added: “Right now, Pilgrims is a lifeline for us, it’s the only consistent support we get. We know we can call the 24-hour advice line if we need anything, or if John deteriorates; the staff are so caring and attentive, we can’t fault them. Pilgrims also gets us out to socialise with other people experiencing life-limiting illnesses, which is so important; when we’re here, we really benefit.”
John continued: “We’re learning lots from Pilgrims, not just about managing my COPD but also via all the activities in Time to Create – it’s so interesting to me, because I’m not artistic, but I try! I really enjoy it. It’s different every week, there’s always something new to do.
John and Virginia’s hand cast
“I’d tell anyone in my position that they should come here, because it’s not what it seems. You might think, like I did, it’s only for old people who are on their last legs! It’s not like that at all. But equally, if I did deteriorate, I would want to come to the hospice.
“What’s important to me is being able to live a relatively normal life, which is something we often take for granted. Pilgrims is helping me to do that as much as possible, and I’m so grateful.”
We’re in need of hand casting kits for each of our hospices in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet, to enable more people like John and Virginia to experience the many benefits of creating lasting legacies.
Our Amazon Wish Listhas been carefully put together by staff from all departments across our hospices, and contains items that will help us the most – including hand casting kits.
Call the Pilgrims Hospices 24-hour Advice Line on01233 504 133
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to more than 3,000 people in east Kent each year who are living with life-limiting conditions. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Canterbury, Thanet and Ashford. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
9th June 2025
Come and say hello! – Nurses and Healthcare Assistants Open Day
Are you a Nurse or Healthcare Assistant looking to take the next exciting step in your career?
Join us onFriday 20 June 2025, 10am-5pm at Pilgrims Hospice Ashford for our Nurses and Healthcare Assistants Open Day.
Whether you’re just curious or seriously considering a change, this day is for you!
Join us at Pilgrims Hospice Ashford for a relaxed and informative Open Day where you can:
Meet our amazing team – Find out what it’s really like to work at one of Kent’s leading end-of-life care charities
Tour our beautiful facilities – Including patient areas, therapy spaces, gardens and more
Ask anything – Seriously, no question is too small! From what to wear on your first day to how to progress your career, we’re happy to chat
Soak up the feel-good vibes – Discover why our staff say working at Pilgrims is one of the most rewarding decisions they’ve ever made
Here’s what we offer
Access to the NHS pension scheme
Current pay rates benchmarked against NHS bandings
Excellent work/life balance
Generous annual leave
Sick leave from Day 1
Paid CPD hours and career development pathways
Subsidised meals (for just £2!)
Free onsite parking
What our team say
“I have worked at Pilgrims for 25 years and love everything about Pilgrims Ashford. We are supported and encouraged to develop, we have a voice and are listened to if there are concerns or improvements needed, and we work in a beautiful building with lovely grounds. From the Medical Director to our amazing Domestic team, we all share the same vision – to give the patients the best experience.”
“We have in-house training opportunities in palliative care to enhance our knowledge. We have a comfortable staff room for our breaks with amazing subsidised meals, with free tea and coffee.It’s a friendly team, everyone helps and advises each other. We even have a visiting therapy dog!”
Come and say hello
Whether you’re an experienced nurse or a new HCA exploring the world of hospice care, we’d love to show you around, introduce you to our team, and tell you more about how you could make a real difference.
No need to book – just drop in any time between 10am and 5pm. Bring your questions, your curiosity and your smile – we’ll bring the cake!
We can’t wait to meet you.
Come and take a look – you might just be surprised at what you discover.
Join us on Friday 20 June, 10am-5pm at Pilgrims Hospice Ashford, Hythe Road, Willesborough, Ashford TN24 0NE.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
