A fond farewell to Debbie Boots: Celebrating 24 years of compassionate care at Pilgrims Hospices
After an incredible 24 years with Pilgrims Hospices, Advanced Clinical Practitioner, Debbie Boots, is retiring, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of care, compassion, and dedication.
Debbie in her early nursing days
Originally from Dagenham, Essex, Debbie has called Thanet home for many years. Her nursing career spans an impressive 44 years, taking just two short breaks for maternity leave. She first trained as a general nurse in Redbridge, gaining experience in male and female surgery and mental health care before moving into care home management.
But it was a single, deeply moving experience with an end-of-life patient at QEQM Hospital that led Debbie to hospice care – a decision that shaped the rest of her career.
Debbie joined Pilgrims Hospices with a passion for ensuring that patients facing life-limiting illnesses receive the best possible care. She embraced every opportunity to develop her skills, working on the in-patient wards and within the community team, earning a Master’s Degree and becoming an Advanced Practitioner Nurse – later recognised as an Advanced Clinical Practitioner.
Throughout her time at Pilgrims, she has played a crucial role in developing nurse prescribing within the charity, mentoring colleagues, and influencing best practices in end-of-life care.
Debbie with Brenda Blethyn
Reflecting on her journey, Debbie says:
“Listening is one of the biggest parts of our role as Pilgrims nurses. I’m a very good listener, and patients need to tell their stories. When you’re listening, you get a sense of what’s most important to them – and that’s what we need to focus on.
Everything we do here is patient-focused. We need to know that our patients feel supported and cared for every step of the way, right up to the very last moment.”
She continues:
“From the moment people are invited to attend any of our clinics or arrive at the hospice for the first time, they’re often tense and sitting on the edge of their chair. We work hard to pick up on the cues in those early conversations, and provide a management plan that will help them to live as well as possible for the remainder of their life.
“When people realise that we’re truly listening, reflecting and empathising, you can see the change – they begin to relax. By gaining their trust, we help them find the coping mechanisms they need at the early stages of their care.”
Her decision to retire was made over a year ago, with the heartfelt desire to be there for her elderly parents and growing family. She is looking forward to spending more time with her two young grandsons, Gregory (3) and Duncan (18 months), and to welcoming a granddaughter soon. At 62, Debbie is also prioritising her own health while embracing this new chapter of life.
Though stepping away from the hospice is bittersweet, Debbie is confident in the talented and dedicated nursing and clinical team she leaves behind. She shares:
“I’ve always worked alongside incredible colleagues, and now it’s time to step back and let them spread their wings. They have the skills, compassion, and fresh ideas to continue delivering outstanding care.”
However, this isn’t a complete goodbye. Debbie has expressed her wish to maintain her links with her beloved hospice career and is considering volunteering in one of Pilgrims’ charity shops in the future.
“It will be lovely to still feel that I’m part of the very special Pilgrims team,” she says.
A message from Kate White, Senior Nurse Manager:
“Debbie’s wisdom, warmth, and unwavering commitment will be deeply missed by colleagues and patients alike. We thank her for her years of service and wish her all the happiness and relaxation she deserves in retirement.”
Enjoy every moment, Debbie – you’ve truly earned it!
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.
18th March 2025
Pilgrims Hospices celebrate World Social Work Day 2025
Pilgrims Hospices is proud to provide holistic, compassionate palliative care across east Kent. The charity supports people in many different ways, and social work is an integral part of this.
To celebrate World Social Work Day 2025, the social work team share what they enjoy about their roles at Pilgrims, and how they support patients, families and local communities.
Melinda
Melinda Downes, Social Worker at Pilgrims Hospice Canterbury
“I’ve always been driven to help people, so to have the opportunity to compassionately care for those facing a terminal illness is not only a privilege, but a very humbling experience.
As a social worker, I get to meet inspiring people and work with fantastic and supportive colleagues within our amazing wider team. I enjoy experiencing meaningful connections with patients, families and carers, and knowing that the support I’m able to provide is appreciated.”
Lynn Griffiths, Social Worker at Pilgrims Hospice Thanet
Lynn
“Working at Pilgrims is a real privilege. It brings me huge job satisfaction, and is both humbling and rewarding. My favourite thing about working here is the people. I’m inspired by our patients and families every day, and feel grateful to have the opportunity to make a positive difference. The team are all incredibly supportive of each other; they are professional, caring and, most of all, kind. Pilgrims is a really lovely place to work.
I spend time with patients and their families, both on the ward and in the community, supporting them during what is often a very difficult period in their lives. Having the time to make trusting and meaningful relationships is so important, and I feel privileged when people share their experiences with me.
My role is different every day; the diversity creates a busy workload, but it is enjoyable and allows me to use my social work training, skills and knowledge to contribute positively to the patients, families and the wider multi-disciplinary team within the hospice.”
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.
24th September 2024
Super fundraiser Sian raises over £1,000 for Pilgrims Hospices in memory of mum
Sian fundraised in memory of her mum, Denise, who received Pilgrims care in 2022.
Sian and Denise
Sian felt so supported by Pilgrims during her mum’s illness that she wanted to give back.
She said: “Pilgrims regularly checked in, ensuring she was comfortable with the huge changes in her life that she was about to face. They fitted aids throughout our home to support her as her physical strength gradually worsened.
“In the days leading up to her passing, she got sick. We phoned Pilgrims for advice, and they informed our GP and requested a scan. On the morning of the scan, Mum struggled to get up. I called Pilgrims and they told me to phone the hospital. This became one of the last days we spent with Mum; without Pilgrims’ guidance, we wouldn’t have had that extra time with her before she passed.
“During this period when Mum was unwell, I was on my own caring for her whilst trying to balance working a full-time job as well as making time for myself. Pilgrims acted as a friend, offering advice and support.
“No one can prepare you to lose a parent. Life is short, and although I would’ve loved to spend the rest of my life with Mum, having those extra days with her made me eternally grateful – and it’s all thanks to Pilgrims for listening to me on the other end of that phone call.
Sian took on The Big Half on Sunday 1 September 2024.
Sian at The Big Half 2024
Her friends, family and local gym – Muscle Hut in Ashford – helped her to raise more than £1,000 for Pilgrims.
She added:
“I’m so grateful for the support Pilgrims provided throughout a very difficult time on our family. They were always within arm’s reach, and I’m extremely excited to be giving back to them in any way I can.”
Pilgrims has a limited number of charity places in The Big Half 2025, you can secure your spot on the start line today, for free, with a pledge to raise at least £350 sponsorship for hospice care.
Pilgrims Hospices is a charity dedicated to providing expert care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses in east Kent. Our services ensure comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients and their families, offering compassionate care both in hospice settings and in the community.
29th August 2024
Cheers to the tea-rrific Pilgrims Hospices teams: Celebrating Afternoon Tea Week 2024 with love, laughter, and a feast of flavours!
A huge round of applause to the wonderful Pilgrims Hospices Therapy Centre teams from Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet for treating our patients to the most delightful afternoon teas across all three sites!
Afternoon Tea Week took place nationally from 12 – 18 August 2024; the dedication, warmth, and creativity truly shone through, making the experience unforgettable for everyone involved.
Robyn Moore, Healthcare Assistant
The events were enjoyed by patients who are currently attending Wellbeing groups at each hospice, which provide an opportunity to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. The therapy teams organise visits from guest speakers, who deliver talks and interactive workshops on a variety of topics, helping patients to open up and share their own interests. Importantly, the groups also offer a space to relax and switch off for a few hours.
Patients at the Canterbury hospice welcomed visitors from Retreat into Wonderland, an animal rescue charity based in Herne Bay, to their afternoon tea event. Shetland ponies greeted everyone in the hospice gardens, contributing to a calm and comforting atmosphere.
The Thanet hospice enjoyed an interesting and informative talk from the Kent Police fraud team, and Ashford patients were entertained by a classical guitarist.
Sharon Smith, Wellbeing Practitioner Team Leader, said: “Afternoon Tea Week celebrates the great British tradition of afternoon tea and is the perfect excuse to catch up with loved ones over a cup of tea and some delicacies.”
A special shout-out to our amazing catering team, whose planning and passion turned these afternoon teas into a feast of flavours and joy. Every bite was a reminder of the love and care that goes into everything you do. The smiles on everyone’s faces said it all!
Let’s raise our teacups high in celebration of this cherished tradition and the incredible efforts of our teams who make moments like these so special. Thank you for being the heart and soul of our community!
Pilgrims Hospices is a charity dedicated to providing expert care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses in east Kent. Our services ensure comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients and their families, offering compassionate care both in hospice settings and in the community.
19th June 2023
Gemma shares memories that she’ll keep forever
Gemma tells us about her dad, Alan, and the memories of his last weeks that she’ll keep forever.
My dad, Alan Stockley was a quiet gentle giant of a man who kept himself to himself, not one to complain even though he has been in pain for as long as I can remember. A kind and caring dad, grandad, brother and friend always willing to help anyone he could.
Dad suddenly started to become more poorly than usual at the beginning of September 2022, after two weeks in and out of hospital he was finally admitted to Deal ward after being given his cancer diagnosis, he spent the next 4 weeks there. Dad was eventually moved to Pilgrims Hospice Thanet on 25th October.
At first Dad was very apprehensive about being in the hospice, but as time went on, he felt more relaxed, ordering his meals, and making sure he had some jelly and ice cream for pudding. He enjoyed a good old chat and a laugh with all the nurses and doctors who cared for him.
Many patients came and went, Dad would speak to people one day, and a day or so later their bed would be empty. We all knew what this meant. This is what happens in the hospice but it’s still hard to see.
The experience of the hospice was sad yet refreshing, knowing that Dad had the best care in the final moments of his life.
Gemma
Family and friends would come to visit, and as Dad was in the hospice for 5 weeks and 1 day the staff were used to seeing the regulars. Swapping at regular intervals we made the most of the time we had been given. Dad even struck up a good friendship with another long term patient in the next bed, swapping Foxes glacier mints, reading each other’s newspapers, and watching the World Cup together.
Dad always had a cheeky sense of humour; one evening the man in the bed next to him did not have any visitors, so he asked him if he wanted some? His fellow patient replied: “Of course I would”, so we pulled up two extra chairs. Now my Dad knew that we were only allowed two to a bedside! Shortly after a nurse came in to do her checks as she normally would, she took a few steps into the ward and then turned round quickly, “Erm what are we doing here??” Dad quick as a flash said: “Nothing to do with me they are his visitors!” With that Dad chuckled like a little school boy, with the nurse telling him he was cheeky! Memories like this will keep with us forever knowing that right till the very end my Dad could still laugh and joke.
The experience of the hospice was sad yet refreshing, knowing that Dad had the best care in the final moments of his life. The staff made me feel welcome every day when I visited after work at the same time each evening; the volunteers made me a cuppa, and also asking if I was ok. The nurses were always on hand to ask anything, and always answered any questions I had, also making sure they told me things that Dad wasn’t too sure on or didn’t understand. The hospice doctors and care team were also very supportive and forthcoming with factual information, they gave me and Dad so much support with trying to get him home, but unfortunately this never happened, and he spent his last days in the hospice.
The dedication and support of the staff meant so much to us all, for this we will always be truly grateful.
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.
Broadstairs super-sized deckchair is a Pilgrims’ fundraising winner
John Nicolls from Broadstairs, had the idea of placing a super-sized deckchair on the Broadstairs harbour in 2018; the idea was to raise funds to support his local hospice care charity, Pilgrims Hospices. To date, the deckchair has raised an incredible £6,637.22 from the generosity of local residents and tourists over the past six years.
Nick Anselmi, Karen Kenward and John Nicolls
John said: “It’s always a real pleasure supporting a charity that is so close to my heart. Over the years it’s been invaluable to many, I am happy to help in any way I can, and it’s been great to follow its success.”
Karen Kenward, Pilgrims Hospices Community Fundraising Manager said: “It’s always a delight to meet up with John; his passion for our charity is overwhelming, and he is always so very keen to help support in any way he can.
John Nicholls
“His idea has worked very well, and it’s wonderful to see both children and adults having their photos taken in the chair, having fun, and popping a donation in as a thank you.
“I would also like to thank Nick Anselmi who has also helped support the chair from York Gate Ice Cream Parlour, Broadstairs, along with each and every one of you, who has made a donation to help support our charity. We will continue to watch its success throughout this summer too.”
It’s always a real pleasure supporting a charity that is so close to my heart
John
We take great pride in the fact that all our services are provided completely free of charge. We receive over 75% of our funding from the local community and it is entirely due to the kindness of people like you that we are able to provide the care we do. Your support is ensuring people living with a terminal illness in east Kent can access the quality care and comfort they deserve. As always, we are only able to provide our services, free of charge, thanks to the generosity of our family of supporters, which you are an important part of. Together we can, and will, continue to make a difference.
We’re only able to provide vital, compassionate care across east Kent with the help of our dedicated supporters.
Fundraising for Pilgrims Hospices to make a difference in your community.
If you have a question or idea relating to fundraising for Pilgrims Hospices, please email [email protected]. Or if your question is about an event or challenge organised by Pilgrims Hospices please call 01227 812 609.
Even if you’re only in the early stages of planning your fundraising, we’d love to hear from you!
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.
