Ongoing support during the most difficult of times

For the bereaved, having someone to talk to outside of their family can make a huge difference in how they cope with their grief.

This was certainly true for Anne. Anne’s husband Colin was cared for by the Hospice at Home team and when he passed away, Anne continued to receive support from the team before beginning counselling with our Circle bereavement service. Anne also attends Farleigh’s gardening club.

While her husband was receiving Hospice at Home care, Anne received regular phone calls from Jenny Whatmore-Eve, Farleigh’s Psychosocial Lead, which she found really helpful.

Colin died sooner than the family expected, and Farleigh’s support helped the family during this difficult time. Anne says: “When Colin died Jenny was one of the first people to call me. Even though I knew he was going to die, it was still a shock. Jenny kept in touch until I got a date for my counselling. She really went above and beyond, I’m so grateful for the time and the help she gave me.

“My counselling sessions are a time in the week when I can be really open about how I am feeling, and talk about Colin and life without him. To have somebody who isn’t a friend or a relative to share your feelings with is so beneficial. I feel that the counsellors understand, they really listen.“

“The gardening club has been great too, I can come to Farleigh and spend time in the lovely gardens. I feel I can be me there, talk about Colin if I want to, and not have to put on a brave face if I’m sad.”

“Farleigh offers an exceptional service, I’ve always felt supported. It’s hard to put into words, I am just so grateful for the help Farleigh has given me.”

We understand that Christmas can be especially hard for those who have lost someone special, for additional support over Christmas, please email circle@farleighhospice.org or call 01245 457308.