Your care on our Inpatient Unit
Our Inpatient Unit (IPU) at Farleigh Hospice in Broomfield, Chelmsford, is a calm and welcoming space for adults with life-limiting illness. It provides specialist support when symptoms, pain, or needs cannot be safely managed at home, or when short-term extra care is required.
The IPU focuses on symptom management and holistic care. While it is not a respite or long-term residential service, it is designed for people whose needs require closer specialist attention for a short period.
This page will help you and your loved ones understand what to expect during your stay.
Admission and preparing for your stay
Admissions usually follow a referral from a GP or healthcare professional and are based on clinical need.
We work closely with your care team to ensure the IPU is the right step for you.
What to expect day to day
Care on the IPU is centred on your comfort and wellbeing:
- Our specialist team of nurses, doctors, therapists and support staff are here 24/7
- Your care is tailored to your needs, with regular reviews and conversations
- Meals are freshly prepared and can be enjoyed in your room or in the dining area
- Therapies and complementary support are available to support comfort, mobility and wellbeing
- We maintain a calm and peaceful environment that respects your choices
Visiting and time with family and friends
We know family and loved ones are very important. There are no fixed visiting hours, so friends and relatives can visit at times that suit you.
Visitors of all ages are welcome, and well-behaved pets can visit under supervision.
Comfortable spaces are available for visiting, including gardens.
Occasionally visiting may need to be adjusted to ensure everyone’s safety, and we will always explain why.
How we care for you
Your care is provided by a multidisciplinary team, supporting your physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs:
- Specialist nursing and medical care
- Physiotherapy and occupational therapy
- Emotional and psychological support
- Spiritual care for people of all faiths or none
We aim to respect cultural preferences and individual needs. Translation or interpreting services can be arranged when necessary, though there may be additional costs. Our team will discuss this with you in advance.
Contact and support
If you need support, the best way to reach the right person is through your care team or our Clinical Advice Line.
Clinical Advice Line: 01245 455478 (8 am–8 pm, seven days a week)
If you are already being supported by our team, you can also speak to your nurse or Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), or ask any member of staff to help direct your request.
If you are not sure who to contact, the Clinical Advice Line will make sure you are put in touch with the right support.
Frequently asked questions
Bring items that help you feel comfortable, such as:
- Current medications and a list of what you take
- Comfortable clothing and nightwear
- Toiletries and personal items
- Chargers for phones or tablets
- Favourite photos, books or music
Our rooms have Freeview TV, internet access, phones, en-suite bathrooms and private patios. You are welcome to personalise your space with items from home.
Daily care focuses on your comfort and wellbeing, including:
- Care from nurses, doctors, therapists and support staff 24 hours a day
- Freshly prepared meals in your room or the dining area
- Therapies and complementary support
- Regular reviews of your care and needs
- There are no fixed visiting hours
- Visitors of all ages are welcome
- Well-behaved pets may visit under supervision
- Visiting spaces include gardens and communal areas
- Visiting may occasionally be adjusted for safety
Our multidisciplinary team provides:
- Specialist nursing and medical care
- Physiotherapy and occupational therapy
- Emotional and psychological support
- Spiritual care for all faiths or none
You have the right to:
- Be involved in decisions about your care
- Have information explained clearly
- Have your privacy and preferences respected
We ask patients and families to:
- Treat staff and volunteers with respect
- Share any concerns so we can help
- Let us know if needs or wishes change
We’re here to support you and your family
Our Inpatient Unit team is here to support you, your family and your carers with compassionate, specialist care. If you have any questions, please call our Clinical Advice Line, or read our Inpatient Unit Welcome Pack for more information.