Yuet Mui’s story: “Little acts of kindness make Pilgrims such a special place”
Yuet Mui Chiu from Ashford was devoted to her family; her daughters Pui Ying and Pui Man, her son, William, and her three grandchildren.
She was also a carer for William, who is partially blind.
Yuet Mui’s family with staff at the Ashford hospice
When Yuet Mui became unwell and was referred to Pilgrims Hospices for end-of-life care, the hospice supported her whole family to make the most of the time they had left together.
Here, they share what made that time so special.
“Mum was referred to the Ashford hospice for symptom management; she enjoyed her time there, and was adored by the staff.
“Mum’s English was limited, so being allowed to stay with her overnight for the duration was really helpful. They gave us blankets and a chair to sleep in, and they made sure we were fed.
“Mum went through a phase where she would have a Mini Milk ice cream every day at home, so when the kitchen staff asked her what she would like for pudding, she wanted chocolate ice cream. It wasn’t on the menu, but they went out of their way to get some for her, and even treated her to chocolate bars. It was little acts of kindness like these that meant so much and made such a difference to Mum and all of us. It’s what makes Pilgrims such a special place.
“The staff constantly looked for ways to create comfort, dignity and moments of happiness, however small they might have seemed. Those thoughtful gestures created precious memories that we will always cherish, and they demonstrated the genuine care and humanity shown by everyone at Pilgrims. Mum was comfortable and pain free. She was so happy being at the hospice; when she was told she was being discharged, she was a bit sad.
“When Mum passed away, the staff talked to her as if she was still here with us. One lady gave Mum a bunch of flowers and a kiss. They didn’t rush us to leave, and they gave us a lot of privacy.”
Yuet Mui’s family and friends at Pilgrims Hospices Cycle ChallengePui Ying and her daughter, Bonnie, at Sunflower Memories 2026
Yuet Mui’s family and friends choose to support Pilgrims through fundraising, to help make sure that others can benefit from the same compassionate care they received.
They’ve taken part in Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge, riding 100 miles through the east Kent countryside, and completed the London Big Half 2026 – raising thousands of pounds for local hospice care along the way. They’re also planning a bake off-style event to raise more vital funds for Pilgrims, and they remember Yuet Mui at Pilgrims’ Sunflower Memories event:
“We want to support Pilgrims because they did so much for Mum, and have continued to support our family through their Stepping Stones programme. They’ve gone above and beyond; no matter how much we fundraise or donate, it’s never going to be enough to repay them.
“We want to ensure that Pilgrims can continue providing outstanding care, compassion, and dignity to everyone who needs them. By helping to secure its future, we can protect this essential service and make sure it remains available for current and future generations – offering comfort, expert care, emotional support, and a sense of hope when it’s needed most.”
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.
8th May 2025
Pilgrims Hospices celebrate 80 years since VE Day
On Thursday 8 May 2025, Pilgrims Hospices joined the nation in commemorating the 80th anniversary of VE Day – the momentous occasion that marked the end of war in Europe during World War II.
Across our three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet, staff, patients and their families came together to remember, reflect and celebrate. Each hospice was beautifully decorated with red, white and blue bunting, creating a festive atmosphere that honoured the spirit of national unity and remembrance.
The day was filled with warmth and reflection. Celebration cakes were shared and enjoyed by all, prepared with care by our dedicated catering teams. The event brought people together in both joy and quiet contemplation, recognising the incredible sacrifices made by generations past and the peace and freedom that followed years of hardship and conflict.
VE Day 2025 3
VE Day 2025 4
VE Day 2025 1
Some patients and visitors shared personal memories or stories handed down through their families, while others took comfort in simply being part of a collective moment of gratitude. These connections, rooted in compassion and history, are at the heart of what Pilgrims Hospices stands for.
We are proud to create opportunities where community spirit and shared values shine through, even in the most challenging times. VE Day serves as a poignant reminder of resilience, peace, and the strength of the human spirit – values we uphold every day in our work.
A heartfelt thank you to all our staff and volunteers who made the day so special.
Lest we forget.
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.
12th March 2025
Nourishing body and soul: Pilgrims Hospices catering team
At Pilgrims Hospices, our catering team is more than just a group of staff – we’re a family.
Every day, we work tirelessly to provide delicious, nutritious meals to patients, families, staff, volunteers, and visitors. Our goal is to create comforting, high-quality food that brings warmth and a sense of normality to everyone who walks through our doors.
Our teams at Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet work closely with trusted suppliers to ensure fresh, wholesome meals for all tastes and dietary needs while carefully managing budgets. As one team member puts it, “There’s never a dull moment! We’re always looking for innovative recipes to offer something special.”
We also provide catering services for the Ann Robertson Centre in Canterbury, which offers meeting and training spaces. Our food ensures visitors are well-fed while they work in a welcoming environment.
A passion for food and care
Head of Catering Ian Ashton highlights the significance of our work:
“My team feeds staff and volunteers alongside our patients. We offer subsidised lunchtime meals and a variety of items available for purchase throughout the day. Patient meals are carefully tailored, and my team regularly visits the wards to ensure we’re meeting each patient’s needs.”
Ian adds, “We’re immensely grateful to local producers and supermarkets for their support with free goods when available. This helps us stretch our budget and create a wider variety of meals. Thanks to our freezer capacity, nothing goes to waste.”
Nutrition plays a crucial role in holistic care, especially for those in the final stages of life. Our teams go the extra mile to meet each patient’s wishes.
At Thanet, a patient once requested lobster — and we made it happen. Head Chef Georgie at Thanet explains, “Providing comforting, tasty food is just as important as caring for our patients on the ward.”
Bobby, Head Chef at Ashford, agrees: “It’s about more than food; it’s about moments of connection and care.”
Growing our own
Our commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients is reflected in our kitchen gardens, lovingly tended by volunteers. These gardens supply seasonal produce, which our chefs incorporate into daily menus. Thanks to funding from the Environment Fund, administered by the Kent Community Foundation, we have established a new kitchen garden at our Canterbury hospice. Fresh ingredients like leeks and parsley are already being used in dishes such as leek and parmesan risotto and homemade fish cakes.
We also involve patients in the process, offering a mindful, reflective experience as they pick fresh ingredients for their meals.
Supporting our work
Through the dedication of our catering teams, volunteers, and supporters, we ensure every patient receives the nourishment – both physical and emotional – that they deserve.
Join our catering team
We’re looking for passionate individuals to join us, including a Head Chef at Canterbury. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced chef seeking a rewarding role with no split shifts or late nights.
As Head Chef, you will:
Design and prepare nutritious, varied menus
Cater for corporate and fundraising events
Work with healthcare colleagues to meet dietary needs
Lead and support a dedicated team
Maintain high standards of food safety and cleanliness
This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to make a difference every day.
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.
10th March 2025
Local charities join forces to share resources and champion sustainability
Two cherished local charities, Pilgrims Hospices and Canterbury Umbrella, have teamed up to make a meaningful difference in their community.
The collaboration ensures that surplus kitchen goods are used to provide nutritious meals for even more people in need, while reducing waste and supporting green initiatives.
Ian Ashton, Catering Services Manager at Pilgrims Hospices, is leading this initiative by sharing surplus kitchen supplies with Canterbury Umbrella, a local charity dedicated to supporting mental health and wellbeing.
Robert, the chef at the Canterbury Umbrella Centre, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership. Robert has been a chef for 45 years, holding high-level positions in London, including as Head Chef of a clinic and within Harley Street. During his illustrious career, he has prepared meals for princes, lords, marquesses, and many celebrities. For the past 11 years, he has brought his exceptional culinary skills to Canterbury Umbrella, making a difference in the lives of the local community.
Robert expressed his gratitude:
“This is a collaboration of charities that is most definitely a win-win situation. We thank Ian for his generosity and foresight. By sharing surplus goods, we not only make a difference to the wellbeing of the people who rely on Canterbury Umbrella, but also ensure we’re making the best use of products.
“This reduces waste, lowers the carbon footprint of both charities, and strengthens our community ties. Being just down the road from Pilgrims Hospices, we’re incredibly grateful for the extra support.”
This partnership reflects the shared values of both organisations, highlighting their commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices. By working together, they demonstrate how local charities can maximise their impact, not just for their beneficiaries, but for the planet as well.
Pilgrims Hospices and Canterbury Umbrella are proud to set an example of how collaboration can achieve more. Together, they’re showing that small steps can lead to big changes, fostering a healthier community and a greener future.
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.
12th November 2024
Supporting nutrition and wellbeing in end-of-life care
At Pilgrims Hospices, we recognise the important role that nutrition plays in holistic care, particularly for patients in their final stages of life.
Ensuring access to nutritious, comforting meals is a core part of the work of our catering team.
We believe that good food not only nourishes the body but also brings a sense of everyday normality during difficult times. Bobby, our Head Chef at our Ashford hospice says, “It’s about more than just food; it’s about creating moments of connection and care.”
Our catering team go the extra mile to fulfil all our patient’s wishes. One patient asked for lobster, despite their illness, and our Thanet catering team made it possible. Head Chef at Thanet, Georgie told us, “We’re taking care of our patients by providing them with comforting, tasty food, which is as important as caring for them on the ward.”
Our kitchen gardens, tended by green–fingered volunteers, are a reflection of this ethos. These gardens provide fresh, seasonal produce, which our talented kitchen team incorporate into meals
Generous funding from the Environment Fund, administered by the Kent Community Foundation, has also allowed us to establish a new kitchen garden at our Canterbury hospice. This garden has already started to make a positive difference, offering fresh produce like leeks and parsley for dishes such as leek and parmesan risotto, and homemade fish cakes. We plan to give our patients the opportunity to engage in this process, helping to pick produce for their meals in what will be a mindful and reflective experience.
Together, we can ensure that every patient receives the nourishment – both physical and emotional – that they deserve.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices cares 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.
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 in the Thanet hospice kitchen
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.
