There may be times in a person’s illness when they need to be referred by their GP or their hospital consultant to the in-patient unit. This generally happens when symptoms cannot be managed elsewhere or when rehabilitation is required. After a short stay many patients are able to return home, supported by the hospice community team.

In the later stages of their illness some spend their last days in the hospice if they choose or if they are not able, for whatever reason, to remain at home or in a care home.

The in-patient unit is staffed by specialist doctors and nurses, along with care assistants, auxiliary and housekeeping staff. The unit is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week all year round providing vitally needed support and care.