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.
4th June 2024
John’s journey: Finding solace and connection through Pilgrims Hospices’ Walk and Talk for Carers
John from Sandwich reflects on the benefits of Pilgrims Hospices Walk and Talk group for carers. John kindly took time to share his thoughts, encouraging those who care for their loved ones in Pilgrims care to invest a little time in themselves just once each week.
As a dedicated attendee of the Walk and Talk group, he shares his heartfelt sentiments about his experiences.
“Being part of Pilgrims Hospices’ support network has been a true blessing for both myself and my wife, Isabel. She was referred by her GP to Pilgrims for assistance with managing her COPD and breathlessness. The support we’ve received has been invaluable, offering helpful advice. We both have a sense of profound gratitude for the care provided. We truly feel supported in our journey.
“Isabel has been under Pilgrims’ care since September 2023, which led me to join the Walk and Talk for Carers group. As a keen walker, I have stravaiged (to quote such a lovely Scottish word for walking) the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, including the West Highland Way and the Road to the Isles. With an adventurous spirit, honed through years as a police officer and trainer of police recruits, I find solace in the tranquility of nature.
“Joining the Walk and Talk group has been a delightful experience. The beauty of nature surrounds us, from the serene bird songs to the captivating sightings of rarer species such as Cetti’s Warbler and the White Egret. It’s incredible to witness the resurgence of wildlife.
Our Carers Walking Group enables people to share life experiences, common concerns, and their different coping strategies. It’s a chance for carers to ensure they are looking after themselves in order to best look after their loved one.
Jane Stanley, Pilgrims Hospices Wellbeing Practitioner
“Our small group welcomes all who seek companionship and respite while caring for a loved one. Despite occasional weather constraints, we’ve never missed a walk. It’s a chance to connect, share stories, and appreciate the wonders of nature together. The camaraderie forged is truly special.
“The Walk and Talk group isn’t just about physical exercise; it’s a sanctuary for carers to rejuvenate their spirits and form lasting bonds. Supported by the Pilgrims’ Wellbeing team, we find solace in each other’s company. At three score years and ten, I cherish these moments of relaxation and reflection, savouring my retirement alongside newfound friends.”
“Isabel and I share a lifetime of memories, from our meeting at Stirling University to our adventures among the Scottish islands and around the Rocky Mountains and the trails of Canada.”
During the walks, John said: “I have the chance to reminisce about life’s twists and turns, from witnessing the nearby Richborough cooling towers rise and fall, to celebrating such milestones as my marriage to Isabel at Gretna Green. Even while apart, our bond remains strong, with Isabel having time to indulge in, and catch up on, her favourite TV shows, while I treasure recalling my time as a pipe major, playing the bagpipes in Edinburgh Castle, and leading marches through the streets of London and Tokyo.
“In essence, the Walk and Talk for Carers group embodies the spirit of companionship and renewal, offering respite from life’s demands and fostering connections that enrich our souls.
“Every Monday afternoon you can join us on our Walk and Talk for Carers group through Pegwell Bay Country Park. It is led by two of the hospice staff. You can take time out, and breathe in the invigorating fresh sea air. It’s flat ground — nothing too strenuous. We talk about everything and nothing or just share a laugh.
“The reserve is a mosaic of habitats of saltmarsh, mudflats and chalk shore. Pegwell is the major wildlife migration route from and to Europe. As the season dictates, you can watch thousands of lapwings on their long migration routes. Our group has seen shelducks, redshanks, avocets, oystercatchers, terns and cormorants, and a whole list more. Our favourite is a white egret, whose presence seems to welcome us on each walk.
I cherish these moments of relaxation and reflection, savouring my retirement alongside newfound friends.
John
“Across from the Shellness point of the River Stour is the largest breeding ground for Common or Harbour seals in Kent. It is wonderful to see them resting on the sandbank curled up head and tail, looking like bananas. The walk passes through scrubland, dogwood meadows, and grazing for highland cattle and wild but gentle horses. The walk takes about an hour but no one is rushing you. If we have been very good, there is a cafe at the end of the walk to enjoy a cuppa, rest our feet, and continue our chats.
“The walks are a light hearted, friendly and no doubt healthy break from carers duties. If you do need a serious talk, then there are those there to listen who understand.
“So put on a woolly hat, stout walking shoes, and a warm coat, and I will lend you a set of binoculars.”
Thank you for sharing your story, John, you will have inspired so many of us to take in the fresh air!
For information about Pilgrims Hospices Welling services, please email [email protected] or call 01233 504 127 to talk to a member of our care team.
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.
10th August 2023
Kev Rob and Eddie are making the most of Pilgrims therapy groups
Pilgrims Hospices Wellbeing groups offer a holistic approach to improving the quality of life for their patients. The groups provide a variety of activities and sessions that aim to enhance both mental and emotional wellbeing.
Therapy Group users Kev, Rob and Eddie share their thoughts on the benefits of Pilgrims Wellbeing.
Kev – when I initially came along to the Wellbeing Groups at Pilgrims, I went home and said to my wife Gwenn, this isn’t for me. She persuaded me to give it a little time; I’m so pleased that I did, I have met friendly and interesting people in the groups and enjoyed some of the variety of entertainment and talks that have been provided by the Wellbeing teams.
I discovered that talking and listening to people who are experiencing similar symptoms, and things that I’m experiencing, is really good therapy. I’ve had a chance to express my feelings in a relaxed and friendly environment.
I was a plumber in my working career, and have met people from all walks of life; here at the Therapy Centre, I’ve found lots in common with so many people here, and laugh a great deal when we’re all together.
We’ve made great friendships, and will exchange telephone numbers in order to stay in touch; we hope to continue to meet even after our therapy sessions have finished.
Rob – I’ve been very lucky and blessed with an interesting life. I had my own taxi cab firm in central London, then noticed there was a greater need for ambulance services. I introduced a private ambulance service, which supports the London hospitals including the NHS. I’ve had an interesting and varied career, and have been fortunate to learn to fly a plane amongst many other interesting things.
I’ve been managing my brain cancer diagnosis since May 2022. I had been very fit and healthy until then. I woke up one morning to find myself shuffling, and not really able to pick my feet up. After scans and consultations with the neurological doctor, it was a shock, as there really hadn’t been any warning that I was becoming unwell.
Rob who is 67 years of age, said, “We take our health for granted, I’m doing as much as possible to remain active, and enjoying life as best I can. I have my wife, children and grandchildren for support which is really special for me. My visits to the Pilgrims Therapy Centre keep me feeling very positive, and I enjoy the company of others using the Wellbeing services, and the Pilgrims teams are always there full of positive messages, and useful information about support services, and how to look after myself.”
Eddie – I was a plumber and have worked in a huge variety of properties for a wide variety of companies and people. We often laugh a lot while we’re here at the Therapy Centre, when we’re chatting about our life’s experiences. I can’t express enough how important the groups are, to keep everyone focused on looking after themselves and making the very most of our own skills.
Although I have to keep my meals to quite simple foods, I’m always so well catered for at the group lunches. It’s a pleasure to sit and catch up with the group, we talk about our families, what’s happening locally, how we’re all feeling, what happens next and so much more. But perhaps more than any other thing, we laugh and relax with the Pilgrims care team.
The gentlemen are soon to move on from Pilgrims Hospices Wellbeing Groups, having had support to give them skills and confidence to live life to the full in every moment. With new friendships forged, they hope to continue to meet socially and share their experiences moving forward.
Pilgrims team of nurses, doctors and therapists work together to offer a range of Wellbeing programmes to support patients, their families and friends.
Offering services to help people live better at home; these are available through the Wellbeing and Social Programmes held at our Therapy Centres. By helping to manage symptoms, the care teams can support people to cope with the changes in their lives, giving practical advice, and helping people to think about the future.
Pilgrims’ 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. To find out more click here.
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.
