Pilgrims Hospices to host reading group for patients and carers
This autumn, Pilgrims Hospices is excited to introduce a new reading group, offering patients and carers a chance to come together and enjoy the beauty of literature.
The six-week group, generously funded by the Royal Literary Society, will be hosted by Alicia Foster, a Fellow of the Royal Literary Fund (RLF) and a professional writer.
Each week, Alicia will select pieces of short fiction and poetry to read aloud and share with the group. After each reading, there will be an opportunity to discuss the material as a group. However, there’s no obligation to participate in the discussion – the focus is on creating a welcoming, relaxed space where everyone can share in the enjoyment of words.
The group will take place at Pilgrims Hospices’ Canterbury Therapy Centre, but it is open to patients and carers from all Pilgrims sites. If the group proves popular, there are plans to replicate it in the future, potentially with our own staff leading similar sessions.
Alicia Foster, who has experience running Reading Round groups in various settings, said: “The intention is to create a welcoming and unpressured space where we can share a pleasure in words.
“There’s no pressure to participate in discussions, but many enjoy sharing their thoughts. I’m looking forward to bringing it to Pilgrims.”
The group will begin in October 2024, aligning perfectly with the season when cosy, reflective activities like reading feel just right as the nights draw in. Reading groups like this one can offer profound benefits, from helping participants understand new perspectives and process difficult experiences, to fostering feelings of hope, empathy, and contentment. Reading is also known to improve self-esteem, self-awareness, and overall wellbeing.
If you’re interested in joining the group, simply call Pilgrims Hospices and ask to be connected to the Wellbeing team at your local site.
Spaces are limited, so don’t hesitate to get in touch:
“We’re really excited to offer this reading group to our patients and carers this autumn. It’s such a wonderful opportunity to come together in a relaxed setting and enjoy the simple pleasure of hearing and sharing stories.
“At Pilgrims Hospices, we always strive to support emotional and mental wellbeing as much as physical care, and reading has been shown to have amazing benefits. It allows our patients and carers to find time for themselves, away from worry and daily stress. I truly believe this group will bring a sense of connection and comfort to those who join, and we’re delighted to be able to offer this unique experience.”
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.
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.
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.
9th August 2024
Therapy team takes the plunge to support Pilgrims Hospices!
In September 2024, three brave members of the Pilgrims Hospices therapy team will conquer their fears and soar through the skies in a daring tandem skydive at Headcorn.
Their mission? To raise essential funds for Pilgrims Hospices, a charity dedicated to providing compassionate end-of-life care.
The team, comprised of physiotherapist assistant, Louise Jordan from Herne Bay, wellbeing practitioner team leader, Sharon Smith from Margate, and physiotherapy volunteer, Viera Howsam from Canterbury, is aiming to raise essential funds to support the life-changing work of Pilgrims Hospices.
Pilgrims Hospices, a charity providing compassionate and skilled end-of-life care to over 2,500 patients annually across its three inpatient units in Canterbury, Thanet, and Ashford, its Wellbeing centres and within patients homes, relies on voluntary contributions for 80% of its funding. Community support is vital to enabling the charity to continue its mission of helping people with life-limiting illnesses live well in both mind and body, making the most of the time they have.
I dream of raising enough for a minibus, many of our patients struggle with limited transport facilities in rural areas. It would be wonderful to make a huge difference in helping more patients access our therapy sessions, which are so important for their wellbeing.
Sharon Smith, Wellbeing Practitioner Team Leader
The inspiration for the skydive came from Viera, whose dedication as a volunteer supporting the Pilgrims therapy team with seated exercise groups fuelled her desire to do even more for those in their care.
“When Viera, our lovely volunteer, suggested the skydive, I was hesitant at first,” said Louise. “But as we talked about it, we realised we all had different goals — whether it was funding for the hospice patients’ gym or raising funds to purchase a minibus to help patients travel to therapy groups.
“We decided to take on the challenge together.”
Sharon said, “Honestly, Viera’s the wild one! She suggested it one afternoon, and the next thing we knew, we were all in! We are very excited and wish to thank everyone who has donated to our fundraising page and been so supportive of our slight moment of madness!”
The funds raised from the skydive will go towards improving services for patients.
Sharon said: “I dream of raising enough for a minibus, many of our patients struggle with limited transport facilities in rural areas. It would be wonderful to make a huge difference in helping more patients access our therapy sessions, which are so important for their wellbeing.”
Justine Robinson, Therapy and Wellbeing Services Manager, said:
“I know my team won’t keep their feet on the ground this time! They’ve been amazing, sharing their upcoming challenge with patients and keeping spirits high. Engaging patients with these stories is such an important part of our work, and it’s been a joy to hear patients share their own experiences. I wish the girls the very best on their high-flying adventure this September!”
The Therapy team’s skydive has already gathered significant support, with more than £3,000 raised so far. They hope to raise even more as the big day approaches. The event promises to be thrilling, with friends, family, and supporters cheering them on as they free-fall from 12,000 feet—all for a great cause.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to over 2,500 people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
20th June 2024
Dottie’s Little Hog Hospital brings joy to Pilgrims Hospices Living Well therapy group
On 12 June 2024, the serene Therapy Centre at Pilgrims Hospices in Canterbury was filled with excitement and curiosity as we welcomed guest speaker Jo with some very special guests from Dottie’s Little Hog Hospital, which is based at Retreat into Wonderland in Herne Bay.
Our patients using the Wellbeing and Therapy Centre services were delighted to meet a variety of animals, including guinea pigs, an owl, and an impressively large tortoise named Dave.
The visit was part of our ongoing efforts to provide enriching and therapeutic experiences for our patients. Animals have a unique way of bringing comfort and joy, and this visit was no exception. The patients were particularly fascinated by the stories from the rescue centre in Herne Bay, where they specialise in the care and rehabilitation of hedgehogs.
The star of the day was undoubtedly Mumbles, a three-year-old barn owl whose majestic presence captivated everyone in the room. Alongside Mumbles were some adorable guinea pigs, Barry, Wednesday, and Morticia, who brought smiles and laughter with their antics.
Dave the tortoise was another highlight. His slow and steady demeanour provided a soothing presence, allowing patients to engage in gentle interaction. The combination of different animals offered a rich, multi-sensory experience that everyone enjoyed.
Our patients eagerly asked questions and shared their own stories about pets and wildlife. It was heart-warming to see how the presence of these animals sparked conversations and lifted spirits. Learning about the rescue work that is undertaken at Dottie’s Little Hog Hospital provided an additional layer of interest and connection.
This visit underscores the importance of animal-assisted therapy as part of the comprehensive care provided at Pilgrims Hospices. Such interactions are invaluable, not only for the joy they bring but also for the therapeutic benefits they offer. The smiles, the laughter, and the meaningful conversations that ensued are a testament to the positive impact of these visits.
Sharon Smith, Pilgrims Hospices Lead Wellbeing Practitioner, emphasises the value of group therapy: “This group allows members to offload and share experiences with like-minded people, find and make friends. It’s incredible to see how much our patients enjoy their weekly meetings. The connections and support they find here are essential to their overall wellbeing.”
We are grateful to Dottie’s Little Hog Hospital for their continued support and dedication to our patients. These moments of happiness and engagement are crucial for the well-being of our community, and we look forward to many more visits in the future.
For more information about Dottie’s Little Hog Hospital and their rescue work, please visit their Facebook page.
If you would like more information on services available at Pilgrims Hospices in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet, or within the east Kent community, please contact our team. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of both people and animals.
Supporting Wellbeing at Pilgrims Hospices
Our Wellbeing Programme is free if you live in east Kent and you have been diagnosed with an incurable illness. It aims to enhance your wellbeing – in mind and body. Services are also available for carers – be they friends or family – to support them with self-care, too.
If you talk to us sooner, we can do so much more. Pilgrims Therapy Centres are an important part of the care and support we provide to our patients and their families. Our new Wellbeing Menu offers a range of therapeutic, creative, social and educational groups and activities designed to support you to live well, in both mind and body, for as long as possible.
Our experienced team will work closely with you, and those who are important to you, to help you identify which programmes can help you now and in the future. We will also work alongside your GP and other professionals involved in your care.
Pilgrims Hospices Therapy Centre and Living Well group continue to create a nurturing environment where patients can find joy, comfort and support. The recent visit from Dottie’s Hedgehog Hotel is just one example of the enriching experiences we strive to provide, ensuring our patients live well in both mind and body.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to over 2,500 people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
30th November 2023
Jenni Burnes has a touching and inspirational story that highlights her journey with Pilgrims Hospices
Jenni Burnes is 44 years old and a Pilgrims Hospices patient who received care on the ward for pain management. After a spell of treatment and support, she is now at home and being supported by the Pilgrims Wellbeing team at the hospice Therapy Centre. As part of her on-going support, Jenni regularly attends the Time to Create groups. Jenni welcomed me into her home in Hawkinge, which she shares with her loving husband, Adrian, and two adorable spaniel dogs, Bre and Briar. Their journey together has spanned 17 years, including 14 years of marriage. Having recently moved to a home that is better suited to her mobility, Jenni has a newfound independence in their bungalow space, which brings them much happiness.
Jenni enjoying some fresh air and sunshine
Jenni’s life took a challenging turn when she battled breast cancer, but the good news is she’s received the all-clear. Still, she faces the ongoing struggle of dealing with serious health conditions, including cancer, liver disease, and a history of bulimia.
Jenni’s experience at Pilgrims Hospices has been eye-opening. She didn’t know what to expect, but she discovered a warm and caring community where everyone, from the nurses to the volunteers, made her feel at home. She formed bonds with other patients and their families and values the family atmosphere at the hospice.
I’ve developed friendships I would never have expected
Jenni
“Dr. Pia took time to explain to me and my husband how Pilgrims would support my care; Dr. Suman helped with my pain management; and I soon became much stronger than I’d been in quite some time. After a short spell on the hospice ward, I was able to return home and was offered the opportunity to join the Time to Create group once a week to support my wellbeing.” Jenni told me.
She said: “My introduction to the group came with a sense of nervousness, as I wasn’t sure what to expect and didn’t consider myself a creative person. However, I quickly realised the positive impact of my engagement with Pilgrims. The wellbeing groups, especially the “Time to Create” sessions, have become an essential part of my life. I really appreciate the camaraderie, the banter, and the social element of these gatherings, as well as the opportunity to connect with others who understand my journey.”
I can see the benefit of the group is helping Jenni to make good choices and enjoy life in every moment. We offer flexibility within our wellbeing services to allow access to the right support at the time when it’s most needed. These therapeutic sessions help to manage symptoms and enhance wellbeing. It gives people opportunities to connect with other people and share experiences in a caring and friendly environment.
Mel – Pilgrims Wellbeing Practitioner
Since moving to their new home and feeling stronger with Pilgrims support, Jenni has embraced healthier lifestyle choices to boost her wellbeing, and it’s making a positive difference in her life. Despite her health challenges, Jenni is determined to live her life fully and independently. She even takes herself on outings via the local bus, which helps her regain a sense of normality.
Jenni had a diverse work history, including roles at Eurotunnel, a kitchen company, a doctor’s surgery, and even as a phlebotomist, which she loved. She told me that she particularly cherished her time working with patients and looks forward to the groups where she feels she can be a support to other service users too.
Jenni with visitor Kerry King who joined Jenni for a a chat
Jenni stated: “My cousin Lou brings me to the group sessions; it initially helped boost my confidence. She also takes part in the activities and enjoys the company of the group members too. Lou is my rock, and I love her support. I couldn’t do this without her.
“At the group sessions, I’ve developed friendships I would never have expected and enjoyed the creative activities; we often laugh so much, and I really look forward to them.”
Jenni’s husband, Adrian, has been a pillar of support, and she continues to fight her health battles with resilience. The care team at Pilgrims has made a significant difference by providing targeted medication, leading to a better quality of life.
Jenni is grateful for the support she has received from Pilgrims and encourages others to put their trust in the hospice’s services. She recognises that while life may present challenges, every day brings opportunities to conquer something, no matter how small.
In conclusion, Jenni Burnes’ story is a testament to her strength, resilience, and the positive impact of Pilgrims Hospices in her life.
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 supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
