At Farleigh Hospice, we believe that caring for the whole person, not just their medical needs, can make a real difference to quality of life.
Our Complementary Therapy Service supports people living with a palliative diagnosis, as well as their families and carers, by focusing on both physical comfort and emotional wellbeing.
Complementary therapies can help reduce anxiety, ease discomfort, support relaxation, and create moments of calm during what can be a very difficult time. All therapies are tailored to the individual, taking into account personal needs, preferences, and comfort.
How we support you
Our Complementary Therapy Service is led by our Complementary Therapy Coordinator and supported by a dedicated team of trained volunteers.
Together, they provide support:
- At Farleigh Hospice for outpatients
- On our Inpatient Unit
- In the community or at home, where appropriate
- As part of our wider wellbeing services and groups
Throughout the year, we also host Holistic Relaxation Mornings, offering patients and family members the chance to come together and experience a range of therapies in a calm, supportive environment.
Therapies we offer
Our gentle, non-invasive therapies include:
- Reiki
- Aromatherapy
- Reflexology
- Massage
- Indian Head Massage
Each therapy is adapted to ensure it is safe, appropriate, and comfortable for the individual receiving it.
The power of touch
“A little hand massage enables people to relax and feel calm. That reduces fear, which in turn can reduce pain. It is the touch of caring, communication without words, and even right at the end of life, patients can benefit.”
For many people receiving palliative care, touch can become associated only with medical procedures. Complementary therapy helps reintroduce gentle, reassuring touch as something safe, comforting, and deeply human.
What people tell us
Laura, who was living with motor neurone disease, received reflexology, Reiki, and massage through Farleigh Hospice. She shared:
“All of the therapies benefited me in one way or another, both physically and emotionally. The massage helped most physically, easing muscular cramps and pain.
Reiki helped me emotionally. I felt a great sense of calm. My husband was with me during a session and felt that calm too. Reflexology gave me a real sense of wellbeing and seemed to pinpoint areas that were causing problems.
I would definitely recommend that people with a life-limiting condition try different therapies. Every one I have tried has had a positive effect, either physically or emotionally.”
A holistic approach to care
Complementary therapy is not about treatment or cure, it is about comfort, connection, and care.
Even small moments of calm can make a meaningful difference to wellbeing.