Volunteers’ Week at Rotherham Hospice

Volunteers’ Week at Rotherham Hospice

This week (3rd-9th June 2024) is Volunteers’ Week where, across the country, we celebrate the amazing volunteers that give their time up for a cause.

At Rotherham Hospice, our amazing volunteers work hard every day and ensure we can continue to do the work we do. From serving teas and coffees to patients and loved ones, to working hard in the garden or at one of our charity shops, to counselling grieving loved ones or supporting our Sunbeams Children’s Bereavement Support Group – we can’t thank our Volunteers enough for all the hard work they do.

We wanted to share the stories of four volunteers – why they volunteer for the Hospice, what they do and what their favourite thing about volunteering is.

Stephen's Story

Read here

Paige's Story

Read here

Andrew's Story

Read here

Aimee's Story

Read here

Why volunteer?

Volunteering doesn’t just help us – it helps you too! Through volunteering you can…

  • Learn new skills and gain valuable work experience in an area you might want to develop a career in.
  • Make new friends who have the shared interest of giving back to their community.
  • Develop better physical and mental health and wellbeing whether that’s through getting your steps in on your shift or the positive buzz of helping those in need.
  • Improve your confidence through meeting new people every day.
  • Connect with your community and give something back.

Volunteering can be as big or as little a commitment as you want – whether it’s a weekly shift in our IPU or a marshall at a one off fundraising event, every form of volunteering matters and helps us immensely.

If you fancy volunteering with Rotherham Hospice, get in touch! Find out more about our volunteering opportunities here or give us a ring on 01709 308 900.

Join us for our Coffee Morning at Rotherham Hospice

Join us for our Coffee Morning at Rotherham Hospice

Living with a palliative illness can be an incredibly challenging journey, not just for the individuals experiencing it, but also for their loved ones. At Rotherham Hospice, we understand the importance of support, community, and shared experiences. That’s why we’re thrilled to invite you to our monthly Coffee Mornings, held in collaboration with Weston Park Cancer Charity.

What Are Coffee Mornings?

Our Coffee Mornings are designed to provide a warm and welcoming environment where people living with a palliative illness can come together, enjoy a comforting cup of coffee, and connect with others facing similar experiences. It’s a space to share stories, offer support, and find solace in knowing you’re not alone.

When and Where?

These gatherings take place on the last Thursday of every month at Rotherham Hospice.

Why Attend?

  1. Build a Support Network: One of the most valuable aspects of our Coffee Mornings is the opportunity to meet others who understand what you’re going through. Sharing your journey with those who truly get it can be incredibly reassuring and empowering.

  2. Learn About Available Support: We’ll have experts from both Rotherham Hospice and Weston Park available to discuss the various types of care and support available to you. This is a great chance to ask questions and gain insights into managing your condition.

  3. Enjoy a Sense of Community: There’s something profoundly comforting about coming together in a space where everyone is focused on understanding and supporting one another. It’s a reminder that you’re not alone in this journey.

Get in Touch

We believe that these Coffee Mornings can make a positive difference in your life, and we’re excited to welcome you to our next gathering. If you have any questions or need more details, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. You can contact us at 01709 308900.

Why your support matters

Your support will play a pivotal role in enhancing our ability to deliver compassionate and comprehensive services to our patients and their families. Whether it’s providing essential medical care, offering emotional support, or creating a comforting environment for our patients, your support will directly contribute to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

At Rotherham Hospice, we believe that every individual deserves to live their final days with dignity, surrounded by love and care. Here’s just some of the ways your support could help.

£20, £50 or £100 raised could make a big difference to Rotherham Hospice

Dying Matters week with Rotherham Hospice

Dying Matters Awareness Week with Rotherham Hospice

As we stride into Dying Matters Awareness Week 2024, Rotherham Hospice stands as a beacon of support and advocacy, joining hands with The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust, NHS Blood and Transplant, and Weston Park Cancer Charity. Together, we’re igniting conversations, challenging taboos, and fostering a culture where discussing death and dying is not only accepted but encouraged.

This year’s theme, ‘The way we talk about Dying Matters,’ resonates deeply with our collective mission. It’s about more than just words; it’s about the profound impact language has on our experiences with death, both as individuals and as a society. From healthcare professionals to patients, carers, and families, the way we communicate shapes the journey of end-of-life care.

Throughout the week, we’ve curated a calendar of events in collaboration with our partners, designed to engage, educate, and empower our community:

Tuesday, 7th May 2024: Surgical Division at Rockingham Day Room, from 9:00 to 13:00. Join us at Level C Junction 4 for insightful discussions and shared experiences.

Wednesday, 8th May 2024: Medical Division at A2 Day Room, from 10:00 to 14:00 at Level A Junction 1. Additionally, catch the Big Purple Bus outside in the car park from 13:00 to 15:00, offering a unique space for meaningful conversations.

Thursday, 9th May 2024: Find us at Breathing Space from 10:00 to 12:00 , and from 12:00 to 14:00at Rotherham Health Centre. These sessions provide a supportive environment to engage in open dialogue.

Friday, 10th May 2024: Join us in the Outpatients Room on Reception A, located at the entrance to OPD, at 14:00. 

Amidst these engaging events, Rotherham Hospice remains committed to offering bereavement resources for those navigating the delicate journey of grief. Our doors are open, and our hearts are ready to listen and support you through every step. Find out more about our bereavement services.

In a society often hesitant to broach the topic of death, these conversations are more than necessary; they’re vital. By breaking the silence and fostering understanding, we pave the way for compassionate end-of-life care and meaningful connections.

Together, let’s embrace the power of conversation during Dying Matters Awareness Week 2024. Join us as we amplify voices, share stories, and ensure that every individual’s journey is met with dignity, respect, and understanding.

Remember, your voice matters, and your story deserves to be heard. Let’s talk.

Find out more about Dying Matters Awareness Week.

Why your support matters

Your support will play a pivotal role in enhancing our ability to deliver compassionate and comprehensive services to our patients and their families. Whether it’s providing essential medical care, offering emotional support, or creating a comforting environment for our patients, your support will directly contribute to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

At Rotherham Hospice, we believe that every individual deserves to live their final days with dignity, surrounded by love and care. Here’s just some of the ways your support could help.

£20, £50 or £100 raised could make a big difference to Rotherham Hospice

Read our letter to our local MPs on hospice funding

A letter to our local MPs from Rotherham Hospice asking them to attend a debate on hospice funding

Read our letter to our local MPs

Our CEO has sent a letter to our local MPs (Sarah Champion, Alexander Stafford MP and John Healey MP) asking them to advocate for Rotherham Hospice in the debate in parliament on hospice funding, which will be held on the Monday 15th April. 

This debate presents a chance to platform some of the key funding challenges facing hospices across the UK and advocate for more sustainable funding of our services. 

Ask your local MP to advocate for your Hospice for your loved ones. Find your MP and how to contact them at members.parliament.uk/FindYourMP

Read below the letter we sent

I hope this email finds you are well. I am writing to highlight the Backbench Business Debate taking place on Monday 15th April on hospice funding and ask that you attend to advocate for Rotherham Hospice.

As I’m sure you may be aware, Hospices provide care and support to 300,000 people every year and are an integral part of our health and social care system. However, the current state of hospice funding means that many of us are struggling to keep up with inflation and rising costs.  

At Rotherham Hospice, we provide the essential specialist palliative and end of life care services for the people of Rotherham and surrounding areas. We not only have our 14-bedroom in-patient unit at the hospice itself, but we also provide Hospice at Home services for patients at home, bereavement, and counselling support for loved ones and specialist support for children and young people. In all, our team are making 30,000+ contacts with patients and loved ones per year through visits, clinics, 121 sessions or over the phone – all in addition to us caring for hundreds of patients within the hospice itself. As our local population is aging, demand on our services is constantly increasing and to provide patients with the correct and right care and support they need, and keep them away from unnecessary hospital stays, we do need funding to be addressed for our essential services.  

Peter Gibson MP, one of the Co-Chairs of the APPG on Hospice and End of Life Care, has secured a main chamber Backbench Business Committee debate in parliament on hospice funding, which will be held on the Monday 15th April.  

This debate presents a chance to platform some of the key funding challenges facing hospices across the UK and advocate for more sustainable funding of our services.  

At Rotherham Hospice, it is not just a matter of funding to enable us to provide a safe and excellent service for our patients through clinical staffing and services. Our hospice is now 30 years old and needs essential refurbishment and works to meet the changing needs of our patients. All comes at significant costs, and whilst we actively fundraise to meet the deficit after ICB funding, this is also increasingly difficult due to current socio-economic challenges in our region.   

As the local MP for Rotherham, I am writing to ask if you would consider attending this debate to share the experiences of Rotherham Hospice and advocate for more sustainable funding for hospices now and in the future.  

Hospice UK have provided a briefing on the national funding for hospices, which can be accessed here, for further information. 

I would be very grateful if you could spare some time to attend this debate and support us in raising awareness of this very important, and growing, issue. 

Thank you for your continued support.   

Mat Cottle-Shaw

Why your support matters

Your support will play a pivotal role in enhancing our ability to deliver compassionate and comprehensive services to our patients and their families. Whether it’s providing essential medical care, offering emotional support, or creating a comforting environment for our patients, your support will directly contribute to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

At Rotherham Hospice, we believe that every individual deserves to live their final days with dignity, surrounded by love and care. Here’s just some of the ways your support could help.

£20, £50 or £100 raised could make a big difference to Rotherham Hospice

International Children’s Book Day with Sunbeams

International Children's Book Day with Sunbeams Bereavement Support Group

International Children's Book Day with Sunbeams

At Rotherham Hospice, our Sunbeams Children’s Bereavement support group understands the importance of gentle, empathetic storytelling in helping children navigate the complex emotions surrounding grief. On International Children’s Book Day, we wanted to share how through carefully selected books, we aim to provide solace, understanding, and a safe space for children to explore their feelings.

One such book that holds a special place in our Sunbeams group is The Huge Bag of Worries by Virginia Ironside. This beautifully illustrated story serves as a poignant metaphor for the burdensome weight of worries that children often carry, particularly in the face of bereavement. Just like the protagonist in the story, children in our group may find themselves hesitant to share their worries with their families, fearing that they may cause further distress. However, through the gentle guidance of our support group sessions, we emphasise that sharing a worry helps to make it get smaller and eventually go away; no-one should carry a bag if worries around with them.

Another recommendation from our Sunbeams group is The Invisible String by Patrice Karst. This heart-warming tale illustrates the enduring connections we share with loved ones, even beyond the boundaries of life and death. Through the metaphor of an invisible string that binds us to those we cherish, the book offers reassurance to children that they are never truly alone, even when separated from loved ones by death. In our support group sessions, we use this book to help children understand that their relationship with their loved ones endure, providing comfort and companionship during times of grief.

These carefully chosen books serve as powerful tools in our efforts to support children through the grieving process. By fostering empathy, understanding, and resilience, they provide a source of comfort and guidance for young minds grappling with loss. As we mark International Children’s Book Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to nurturing the hearts and minds of children through the transformative power of literature.

If you’re interested in exploring these books further or learning more about our Sunbeams Children’s Bereavement support group, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. 

Happy International Children’s Book Day!

Find out more about our Sunbeams Children's Bereavement Support Group here.

Make your New Year’s Resolution a Challenge

What's your new year's resolution? Challenge yourself for Rotherham Hospice

Make your New Year's Resolution a Challenge in Giving Back!

As we step into a new year, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the past and setting goals for the future. New Year’s resolutions often revolve around self-improvement, but what if you could make a positive impact on others while achieving personal milestones? This year, consider embracing a thrilling challenge for charity and support the incredible work of Rotherham Hospice.

1. Skydive for Rotherham Hospice

Imagine the rush of wind as you freefall from the sky, embracing the ultimate adrenaline rush in support of a great cause. Rotherham Hospice offers you the chance to take on a skydiving adventure that will not only push your limits but also contribute to the hospice’s vital services. For more information and to sign up, visit Rotherham Hospice Skydive.

2. Conquer the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge

For those who prefer terra firma, the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge presents a formidable yet achievable trek through the stunning Yorkshire Dales. This challenge takes you to the summits of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough, covering a distance of 24 miles in under 12 hours. Lace up your boots and register for the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge at Rotherham Hospice Three Peaks.

3. Take to the Skies with a Wing Walk

For the truly adventurous, a wing walk offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of flying while strapped to the wing of a biplane. Channel your inner daredevil and fundraise for Rotherham Hospice in a way like no other. Check out the details and register for the Wing Walk at Rotherham Hospice Wing Walk.

4. Run with #TeamRotherhamHospice

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a novice, there’s a perfect running event for you to support Rotherham Hospice. Exclusive slots are available on RunForCharity.com, including 5k, half marathon, and full marathon options. Join #TeamRotherhamHospice in events like the Sheffield Half Marathon and make every step count. Visit RunForCharity.com for more details.

5. Dive into Non-Running Adventures

If running isn’t your forte, fear not! Rotherham Hospice provides opportunities for non-running adventures on Run For Charity. From bungee jumps that will leave your heart pounding to inflatable obstacle courses that promise laughter and fun, there’s an event for everyone.

This year, make your New Year’s resolution more than just a personal goal. Challenge yourself, make a difference, and support the invaluable services of Rotherham Hospice. Whichever adventure you choose, know that you are not only pushing your own boundaries but also helping those in need.

To embark on your charity challenge journey, explore the available events and sign up today. Let’s make 2024 a year of unforgettable experiences and positive impact with #TeamRotherhamHospice!

2024 Events at Rotherham Hospice

Why your support matters

Your support will play a pivotal role in enhancing our ability to deliver compassionate and comprehensive services to our patients and their families. Whether it’s providing essential medical care, offering emotional support, or creating a comforting environment for our patients, your support will directly contribute to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

At Rotherham Hospice, we believe that every individual deserves to live their final days with dignity, surrounded by love and care. Here’s just some of the ways your support could help.

£20, £50 or £100 raised could make a big difference to Rotherham Hospice

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Rotherham Hospice

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Rotherham Hospice

Everyone at Rotherham Hospice wishes you a Merry Christmas

This Christmas, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude and share the incredible impact your support has had on Rotherham Hospice throughout 2023. The past year has been marked by unwavering support, remarkable milestones, and the ever-present spirit of our incredible community and we wanted to reflect on these 

Caring for Each and Every Individual

So far in 2023, our dedicated team at Rotherham Hospice provided compassionate care to 437 individuals on our InPatient Unit. It’s a testament to the commitment of our staff, ensuring that each person received the comfort and support they needed during challenging times. In addition to this, our outreach extended to 8,624 home visits, bringing our services directly to those who required it most. Our 1,100 counselling sessions provided a crucial lifeline to loved ones, offering support and solace as they navigated the complex emotions that accompany loss.

Our Sunbeams Children’s Bereavement Group played a vital role in helping 328 children find healing and connection in a safe and supportive environment. It’s in these small moments of connection and understanding that we see the profound impact of our work.

Community Spirit in Action

The spirit of the Rotherham community shone brightly through the incredible fundraising efforts throughout the year. The Midnight Memory Walk in June raised an astounding £61,000, and the Light Up a Life campaign during Christmas garnered over £25,000. Your generosity has allowed us to expand our reach and continue our mission of providing care and support to those in need.

A significant milestone in our journey was the announcement by Rotherham United, with 6 Diamond Partners investing in featuring Rotherham Hospice as the main sponsor on the 23/24 season shirt. The overwhelming support from the club, Diamond Partners, and the RUFC community has been instrumental in propelling our cause forward and we can’t thank them enough for all their support in 2023.

Read more about the Diamond Partners here.

Your Voices Shape Our Future

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in our survey, sharing valuable thoughts, ideas, and stories. Your input is the compass that guides us as we strive to improve and enhance our services to better serve our community. If you haven’t already, please take a moment to complete our survey here. Your feedback is invaluable as we continue to shape the future of your Hospice for your loved ones.

Looking Ahead to 2024

The coming year holds exciting promises for Rotherham Hospice, with more fundraising events than ever. Save the dates for the Quiz Party Night at Magna on Friday, March 15th, the return of the Midnight Memory Walk on Saturday, June 22nd, and our Inaugural Rotherham Hospice Ball at Magna on Saturday, September 28th. Be sure to sign up and join us in making these events memorable successes.

Our commitment to caring for the Rotherham community remains unwavering. Through our Hospice, Hospice at Home team, bereavement services, and Sunbeams Children’s Bereavement Support, we will continue to provide comfort, understanding, and support to those who need it most.

As we celebrate the joy of the festive season, let us also celebrate the strength and resilience of our community. Thank you for being an essential part of the Rotherham Hospice family. May your Christmas and New Year be filled with love, warmth, and cherished moments.

Survey: Have your say on Hospice Care by 31st Dec

Rotherham Hospice Survey

Rotherham Hospice Survey Closes Soon!

Rotherham Hospice is a charity dedicated to you – the people of Rotherham. We are currently planning our services for the future, and we want to hear from as many people as possible about what you think our future priorities should be. 

We are also keen to hear from anyone who has experienced our past or current services as they are. This could be your own experience or that of a loved one or friend.

The survey closes on 31st December 2023.

Start the Survey

If you are unable to complete the survey online, please call 01709 308900 and we will arrange a call for you to complete it over the phone.

Thank you for taking part in the Rotherham Hospice survey.

Navigating Grief During the Festive Season

Navigating Grief During the Festive Season

Navigating Grief During the Festive Season: A message from Rotherham Hospice

At Rotherham Hospice, we understand that this time of year can be particularly difficult for individuals and families who are navigating the complex emotions that accompany loss. Grief doesn’t take a holiday, and it’s okay to acknowledge and embrace the sad feelings that may arise during this season.

Embracing the Complexity of Emotions

Grief is a personal journey, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. During the holidays, emotions can be especially intense as we reminisce about past celebrations and traditions shared with those who have died.  It’s essential to recognise that feeling a mix of sadness, nostalgia, and even moments of joy is a normal part of the grieving process.

Honouring Memories

This Christmas, consider finding meaningful ways to honour and celebrate the memories of your loved one. Lighting a candle, creating a special ornament, or sharing stories with family and friends can be powerful ways to keep their spirit alive during the holiday season. These rituals can serve as a comforting bridge between the past and the present.

Seeking Support

Navigating grief can be a challenging journey, and it’s crucial to remember that you don’t have to face it alone. Whether through counselling, support groups, or reaching out to friends and family, connecting with others who understand your experience can provide comfort and a sense of shared understanding. Remember that crying is a natural response to extreme sadness, not something to be avoided.  Those who are strong and sensible, seek out appropriate support when they are feeling low.

Adjusting Traditions

It’s okay to reassess and adjust holiday traditions to accommodate the changes brought about by loss. Whether it’s starting new traditions or modifying existing ones, finding ways to honour your loved one while allowing space for your own healing is an important aspect of the grieving process. You may want to visit a cemetery or a favourite place of your loved one. Some people have a tradition of walking in the countryside or even sharing time doing an activity or hobby the loved one used to do.

Self-Compassion

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the season, remember to be kind to yourself. Grieving takes time, and it’s valuable to prioritise self-care. Whether it’s taking a quiet moment alone, indulging in a favourite activity, or seeking professional support, giving yourself the space to feel and heal is a crucial part of the journey.

Christmas candles against a backdrop of snow

As we navigate the complexities of grief during the holiday season, let us be gentle with ourselves and with others. At Rotherham Hospice, we extend our support to those who may be finding this time of year particularly challenging. Remember, your feelings are valid, and there is a community ready to offer understanding and compassion.

May this holiday season be a time of reflection, connection, and healing for all those who carry the weight of grief in their hearts. From our Hospice family to yours, we wish you moments of peace, comfort, and the strength to embrace the love that endures beyond the physical presence of those we hold dear.

Light Up A Life Programme 2023

Light Up A Life Programme

Light Up A Life Programme 2023

Thank you for joining us to Light Up A Life. Below are the Light Up A Life programmes for the 2023 memorial services.

If you would benefit from larger print, text-to-speech, translation, colour contrast and more, please use the Accessibility Tools located at the top of this page.

Light Up A Life Programme

7th and 9th December | Rotherham Hospice

View here

Light Up A Life Programme

10th December | Rotherham Minster

View here
Dedicate your star

Why your support matters

Rotherham Hospice cares for families experiencing an end-of-life illness, both physically and emotionally. As a charity, Rotherham Hospice needs to raise £3 million each year to fund vital end-of-life services and we can only do it thanks to our amazing supporters like you. Thank you.

How your fundraising helps Rotherham Hospice