Pilgrims patients’ artwork features in Beaney exhibition
Pilgrims Hospices is proud to offer a range of wellbeing groups for patients, supporting them to feel empowered and live well in the time they have left.
Rachelle Francis
In February 2026, Margate-based textile artist, Rachelle Francis, led a series of workshops – Mind to Stitch – at the Thanet hospice Therapy Centre, supporting patients’ wellbeing through creativity and connection. Patients collaborated to create cloth books inspired by the hidden work of Rachelle’s late mother and fellow artist, Diana Francis, whose creative practice became a vital outlet while living with anxiety, depression, and life-limiting illness.
The Mind to Stitch workshop programme was part of a wider project called With & Without Diana: Stitching for Mental Health, supported through funding from Arts Council England. The project was developed with project partner Olivia Schelts-Harris and delivered with the skills, care and creativity of an incredible team across Thanet.
Rachelle said: “It was especially poignant to introduce the Mind to Stitch project to Pilgrims patients. Sharing both my own and my late mother’s artworks, alongside Diana’s experiences of anxiety, depression, and life-limiting illness, created a deeply moving connection within the group. Participants felt inspired to express themselves creatively, just as Diana had done, and many embraced the opportunity to create artworks that would form part of their own legacy. This made the Mind to Stitch cloth books deeply personal and significant.
“The Wellbeing team at Pilgrims were incredibly supportive throughout the process. I was stunned by the detail, imagination, and individuality in each participant’s creations; it was wonderful to see not only artistic confidence grow, but also the connections within the group blossom. The two Mind to Stitch cloth books created by Pilgrims participants are truly bursting at the seams with life.”
Mind To Stitch Book 7
Mind To Stitch Book 6
Mind To Stitch Book 5
Mind To Stitch Book 4
Mind To Stitch Book 3
Mind To Stitch Book 2
Mind To Stitch Book 1
The project culminated in an exhibition – My Hands Are My Voice – at The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge in Canterbury, which featured artwork by Diana, Rachelle, and hundreds of community participants. Blooming with Diana’s patterns and repurposed materials, these collaborative works celebrate the expressive, connective and therapeutic power of textiles; the tactile pages invite visitors to touch and listen closely to the stories shared in stitch.
Shaped by pattern, repetition and gesture, the exhibition traces a shared visual language across generations, where making becomes a means of expression beyond words – and so the conversation expands outward, revealing how hands can hold memory, connection and voice.
Rachelle continued: “At the exhibition opening, it was an absolute joy to see patients and their families visiting the artworks on display. The group lit up the room with their collective energy, and we all shared in the excitement of knowing their work would be seen by thousands of people over the coming weeks.”
Cloth books at the My Hands Are My Voice exhibition
Peney’s story
Peney at the exhibition
Peney Reynolds lives in Margate and was referred to Pilgrims Hospices in 2025 after being diagnosed with mesothelioma, a lung cancer caused by asbestos. After the initial shock, she has found hope and positivity through attending Pilgrims’ wellbeing groups; meeting Rachelle and being involved with My Hands Are My Voice has been a particular highlight:
“My journey began in a dark, scary tunnel, and I saw no light at the end of it; despite having a loving, caring family, I felt very alone.
“When the oncology nurses at the hospital suggested Pilgrims to me, I thought: “God, they think I’m going to die soon”, but Pilgrims put me right – “No, Peney, you’re not coming here to die – you are coming here to live.” I soon found out that the hospice helps people like me to live with dignity, empowers us to have faith in ourselves, and encourages quality of life.”
“I was attracted to the Living Well group immediately and joined a wonderful group of people in the same position as me; people I could talk to (without upsetting close family with my inner thoughts). I met Katie Brewer and Jane Stanley, two amazing Wellbeing Practitioners who have been my rocks. They’ve inspired and encouraged me to explore myself and I haven’t looked back since; a wonderful experience of love and kindness that turned my darkness into bright sunshine.
Mind to Stitch workshop at the Thanet hospice Therapy Centre
“Taking part in the Mind to Stitch workshops with Rachelle was a real joy; I have a deep regard for her and Diana. I chose to make my page about my little dog, Jodie, who sadly passed on 23 December 2025 – I called it “My Paws Are My Voice”. As a group, we’re so proud of each other, and I was honoured to attend the opening day of the exhibition at The Beaney.
“Thanks to all the Wellbeing staff and volunteers who have made me realise life is an amazing gift, I can now embrace my journey with hope and faith. With their continued support, I’m planning to make four memory boxes for loved ones, for when my time comes. I have some prints of Diana’s work from Rachelle, which I will write personal messages on, and I’m recording fond memories via The Blackbird Project. All will have one message in common – my proudest moment, which is having a bit of me live on in those textile books.
“Thanks to Pilgrims, I’m living well. The hospice is the most beautiful place I’ve had the pleasure to be, and I’m so grateful for each and every person there.”
Rachelle added: “I am very proud to share in the exhibition the incredible power of Diana’s once hidden artworks – not just their personal impact on me as her daughter, but also their ability to inspire the 222 people in the community through the Mind to Stitch workshops.
“The public response to the exhibition has been overwhelming. Visitors have been deeply moved and inspired by the exhibits, and hundreds of personal reflections have been left on the interactive wall. I still don’t think I’ve fully taken it all in.
“It has been especially beautiful to see young children animatedly exploring the cloth books created by Pilgrims participants, while parents and carers explain who stitched each page and the story behind the Pilgrims books. Hearing those conversations is a real reminder of how creativity, care, and shared stories can connect strangers and people across generations.”
A selection of works from the exhibition have been acquired by the Wellcome Collection and are due to enter the collection in 2027.
Pilgrims run a wide range of wellbeing groups and activities designed to support patients to live well, stay connected and enjoy the best quality of life possible.
For more information on Pilgrims Hospices’ Wellbeing Programme:
Call the Pilgrims Hospices Advice Line on01233 504 133
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.
11th March 2026
How creativity, friendship and love come to life at Pilgrims Hospices
When Kevin Carter first heard about Pilgrims Hospices’ 12-week Time to Create group, he wasn’t convinced it was for him.
“I thought it would all be drawing,” he admits. “I really wasn’t sure what to expect.”
Now, the 58-year-old from Ramsgate wouldn’t miss a Thursday for the world.
Kevin’s teddy bear, Wonky, with Eeny, Meeny, Miny and Moe
Kevin attends the Wellbeing and Therapy Centre at Pilgrims Hospice Thanet, having been referred by King’s College Hospital in London following a diagnosis of liver cancer. After being introduced to the range of wellbeing support available at Pilgrims, he decided to give Time to Create a try, and quickly discovered something special.
“Well, it’s been amazing,” Kevin says. “This is how I spend my Thursdays now. I’ve made such good friends, tried lots of different crafts, and created keepsakes and cards for my family to treasure forever.”
One creation in particular has captured hearts across the group: a soft, handmade teddy bear Kevin proudly named Wonky.
Wonky is stitched together with care, his slightly uneven seams and gentle smile giving him real character. Made in warm, neutral fabric and small enough to be held close, he’s far from perfect, and that’s exactly why Kevin loves him.
“I’m especially pleased with my teddy bear,” Kevin says. “I named him Wonky because he’s not perfect, just like all of us. But he’s full of love.”
Wonky is a gift for Kevin’s nine-year-old daughter, Bonnie, and a symbol of something much deeper.
“It matters to me to leave something behind that’s been made with love,” Kevin explains. “I hope when Bonnie holds Wonky, she feels how much she means to me. I also have a 13-year-old son, Logan, I’ve yet to make something for him… however, I am responding well to treatment, so there will be time.”
The teddy-making didn’t stop with Wonky. Inspired by Kevin, several other members of the group began making bears of their own.
One fellow participant even created a set of tiny bears in tins for Kevin, keepsakes he treasures just as much.
“They’ve truly captured my heart,” Kevin says with a smile. “I’ve named them Eeny, Meeny, Miny and Moe. One’s for Bonnie and one’s for me. They live in their own special tins.”
For Kevin, creativity was never part of his life before joining Pilgrims.
Having spent his career in the building industry and lived in Thanet for 30 years, originally hailing from the Rhondda Valley in Wales, sewing and crafting were entirely new experiences.
“I never imagined I’d be doing this,” he says.
“But the group brings me to life. We laugh a lot, we share stories, and there’s always tea, cake, friendship and care here.”
The Time to Create group is facilitated by Pilgrims Hospices’ Wellbeing team and offers patients a relaxed, supportive space to explore creativity, whether through sewing, crafting, card-making or other hands-on activities.
It’s open to people living with a life-limiting illness and focuses on emotional, psychological and social wellbeing.
Kate Brewer, Wellbeing Practitioner at Pilgrims Hospice Thanet, has seen first-hand the impact the group has had on Kevin:
“Kevin’s idea to make a teddy didn’t just result in one bear, it inspired the whole group,” she says. “Creativity gives people a sense of purpose, connection and joy. We’ve seen Kevin grow in confidence, build friendships and create something that will carry his love forward.”
During sessions, the room is often filled with laughter, gentle concentration and conversation,hands busy with needles and fabric, stories shared over cups of tea, and moments of quiet pride as projects come together.
“At Pilgrims, we support the whole person, not just their medical needs,” Katie adds. “Creative activities like Time to Create allow people to express themselves, form meaningful connections and leave a legacy for those they love. That legacy might be a teddy bear, a card, or simply the memories made together.”
As Kevin reflects on Wonky and the time he’s spent at Pilgrims, one thing stands out above all else:
“Even imperfect things can be the most treasured,” he says. “I hope when my family see these teddies, they remember the love behind them, and the laughter that helped make them.”
Pilgrims run a wide range of wellbeing groups and activities designed to support patients to live well, stay connected and enjoy the best quality of life possible.
For more information on Pilgrims Hospices’ Wellbeing Programme:
Call the Pilgrims Hospices Advice Line on 01233 504 133
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.
14th March 2025
Photography workshop brings joy to Pilgrims Hospices patients
Wellbeing groups at Pilgrims Hospices offer many benefits to patients living with a life-limiting illness, as well as their family members and carers.
Time to Create is a therapeutic art group that runs weekly in the hospice Therapy Centres.
On 6 March 2025, Pilgrims welcomed local photographer, Emily Rose Parris, to its Thanet hospice to deliver a cyanotype workshop.
Using UV light – from the sun or a light box – patients created beautiful prints using a variety of materials. Known as blueprints, sun prints and solar prints, cyanotypes are one of the earliest forms of photography, founded in 1842 by Sir John Herschel.
The process was made most notable by Kent-based artist Anna Atkins, who worked alongside him. Cyanotypes are suitable for all ages and abilities, making them a fun and inclusive creative activity.
Sharon Thompson, Wellbeing Practitioner Team Leader, said:
“It was a perfectly presented workshop on a very interesting topic. Patients and carers were absorbed in the creative process, enabling them to explore their creativity.”
After graduating from Kingston University with a BA (Hons) in Photography, she found herself without a local darkroom to continue her practice; so, with the help of family, friends and volunteers, she built one. Emily offers a range of workshops for the general public, as well as for local community groups like Pilgrims.
She said: “Pilgrims is a charity close to my heart. My grandad was a patient here; whilst it was a truly difficult time for my family, we knew he was in safe hands. Pilgrims cared for him, kept us informed and directed us to the relevant support.
“Many years on, I’m proud to have taken part in Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge twice, and I continue to offer creative workshops to patients and carers on a voluntary basis when possible.”
Patients enjoyed welcoming Emily to Time to Create, spending a sunny afternoon immersed in creativity and socialising with friends.
Linda Rose from Margate said: “It’s so different, fun and brilliant; even my husband enjoys coming along to these groups. They’re really lovely.”
Linda Rose with her husband, Chris
Another patient, Monica Field from Ramsgate, shared her experience: “Emily’s workshop was so interesting. I love crafts and making my own cards, but I’ve never tried anything like this before, it’s really fascinating what you can make. If I had a light box at home, I’d be on it all day!”
Monica Field with one of her cyanotype prints
Monica has been attending Wellbeing groups at Pilgrims since November 2024.
She continued:
“I live on my own, so I like coming here and chatting to people. We’re all in the same boat and we can talk about it. My friend had cancer and was cared for by Pilgrims many years ago, and I thought then that it was a lovely place. When I was asked if I wanted to be referred, I said, “Yes, please.” They do such a wonderful job here. When I walk into the hospice, I feel a sense of peace come over me.”
Emily added:
“Creative workshops are a vital service for patients, family members and carers. The activities provide an environment that encourages playfulness, mindfulness and collaboration. The act of creating is proven to be a positive source of respite and rest from the difficulties they are facing. It’s an opportunity for everyone to talk candidly alongside people who understand what they are going through, whilst also creating something for themselves.
Patients Maureen Harding and Monica Field with Emily Rose Parris
“During our cyanotype workshop, the patients expressed to me that they love taking part for a multitude of reasons. They feel a sense of community, have a connection to nature via the amazing garden space and form bonds with fellow patients and staff. They told me that although they are unwell, the groups help them to feel like their entire selves, that the staff are interested in them and their lives, and ultimately make them feel listened to, seen and understood. It was a joy to talk to the patients, hear about their lives and their outlook.”
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 September 2024
Pilgrims Hospices patients showcase artwork at Margate exhibition
Pilgrims Hospices offer many therapeutic activities through its Wellbeing Programme, giving both patients and carers the opportunity to try something new.
They can help with relaxation, reducing anxiety and forming new social connections.
Beverley with her husband, John
Time to Create therapeutic art group sessions provide creative and social activities to enjoy with others.
In July 2024, patients attending Time to Create were invited by local artist, Beverley Parker, to showcase their artwork in her exhibition Then & Now at Pie Factory, Margate. Beverley’s husband, artist John Horton, was cared for at Pilgrims Hospice Canterbury in 2023. The exhibition was dedicated to his memory.
John had prostate cancer and was referred to Pilgrims in 2022. He chose to remain at home, rather than going into the hospice, and received support and care at home when he approached the end of life.
Beverley said: “Pilgrims played an enormous part; they were supportive, caring and understanding, treating him with dignity and a gentle sense of humour, which he would have loved. They guided me through his last hours, and he died peacefully on 25 September 2023.
“I turned to the hospice nurses after John’s death. There was someone on the phone who listened when I had no one else to talk to late at night, and they put me in contact with the counselling services at Pilgrims, which has been so helpful.
“Through visiting the Canterbury hospice, I saw a different side to the hospice than I had imagined. The first time I walked into the reception area and saw the boxes of tissues on the tables, I could hardly say my name I was so upset. However, I also felt an enormous sense of comfort. The volunteers on reception were warm and friendly. It didn’t smell like a hospital (which I dreaded), there were flowers, there was art on the walls, people were smiling.
Time to Create patients with their artwork
“I heard about Time to Create, and as an artist I was very interested in art as therapy, recognising how powerful it is – it is a living statement, it is positive and empowering. I met Sharon from the Wellbeing team and patients attending the sessions, and I asked if they would like to exhibit their work with me at my exhibition. It was a success. We had a private view where I met more of the artists and their families, and that was particularly poignant – to meet others who are currently going through what I had been going through. We hugged, there were a few tears, but there was so much joy in the gallery. I felt I was giving something back for the support I’d received from the hospice. John was an artist himself, and he would have been delighted to have seen the work we all exhibited.”
Patients created their exhibition artwork within Time to Create sessions at each hospice in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet. They enjoyed the process and seeing their work showcased in a gallery. The Wellbeing team showed digital versions of the artwork in the Pilgrims Therapy Centre, for patients who were unable to attend the exhibition.
Sharon Smith, Wellbeing Practitioner Team Leader, said:
“It was an amazing opportunity for our Time to Create participants to be invited to showcase their creative work alongside Beverley’s artwork. Patients allowed their emotions – happiness, sadness, even anger – to guide their creativity. Attending the private view and seeing them show their work to family members and friends, reminded me how important creativity can be. It allows people to express themselves, improves wellbeing and makes people feel empowered.”
For more information on Pilgrims Hospices’ Wellbeing Programme:
Call the Pilgrims Hospices Advice Line on 01233 504 133
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.
26th October 2023
Steve finds hope and community at Pilgrims Hospices: A Journey with Cystic Fibrosis
Steve Carter from Ashford attends Pilgrims Hospices Wellbeing sessions at the Ashford hospice. He has cystic fibrosis and attends the therapy centre groups with his wife Thep, who is his full time carer.
Steve’s journey with cystic fibrosis has been tough and long, but he has found relief with the support of Pilgrims, and now enjoys his time meeting others using the therapy services.
Steve explained: “Over recent years as my illness has become worse, I’ve spent lots of time in King’s College Hospital in London: last year, I had to go there four times totalling over six months. They have been very difficult times. As a long stay patient, I have my own room, my wife Thep, is able to stay with me, which is a great comfort and support. Travelling to London in itself is challenging, stressful and exhausting. I am now on oxygen and a ventilator at night, and at periods in the day too, depending on my state of health.
The therapy sessions are a great boost to my week.
Steve Carter
When asked, how he had come to spend time at Pilgrims Hospices, Steve explained, that he had been an inpatient around three years ago, having spent time in hospital, after an episode, he said: “I was in a very dark place, and felt I wasn’t able to carry on; I was referred to Pilgrims Hospices, who gently managed to get my symptoms under control, and I began to feel better. I am much more well now in comparison to last year; I really did feel on the edge of death. I’m now back at home with my wife, and attending the hospice therapy centre during the week, which is really helping.
“The therapy sessions are a great boost to my week, it’s great to come to Pilgrims. Getting out is an important part of my wellbeing, and mental health too, and I meet some lovely people, including other service users, Pilgrims staff and volunteers.
“This year has been a really good year for me, being here at Pilgrims takes my mind away from my illness, and I get absorbed in what I’m doing, which is really refreshing.
“As part of the Time to Create group, there are lots of crafts to undertake, many I’m trying for the first time. I’m not really very artistic but if someone helps me with an idea I can get going and really enjoy it. I’ve been watching some art programmes on TV, which have been useful when I’m trying to improve my skills.
“It’s so good to come and talk to people, it’s very easy to become isolated when you can’t get out much, especially during the winter. The group is always fun and full of laughter and chatter, it’s a very social experience. My wife Thep comes along too, and we both get involved with all sorts of art projects.
We have lived in Ashford for a number of years, so not too far for us to come along, and share some special time with the Pilgrims team, and those using the Wellbeing programme. I didn’t know there were so many options available, the support and help that we both receive is truly amazing.”
Thank you for sharing your story Steve, you are raising awareness of our services, and we are so pleased you are enjoying your time with the Time to Create group.
Each year Pilgrims supports thousands of local people coping with a life-limiting illness and their families. The charity offers a range of services: from end-of-life care given on its wards, to its Wellbeing Programme supporting people after they are diagnosed to live well and stay independent.
