We have recently undertaken market research across Worcestershire to learn new insight into how our community and supporters perceive and understand our care and support. The market research involved on-street surveys and an online questionnaire which was kindly funded by a grant making trust.
We would like to thank those who took part in the research which will help us in the future focus on developing a wider understanding of our work.
Our supporters and community recognise our logo, know public donations are our primary funding stream and have good awareness of the free support we provide for adult patients and their loved ones.
However, the level of community knowledge of some areas of our work shows we need to be more clear and about we do, who for and how we are funded.
Here are five key facts about our care.
All of our services are completely free to patients and their families. This is made possible by the generosity of our supporters contributing to three quarters of our income.
We care for adult patients living with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses including motor neurone disease, Parkinson’s and heart failure.
Our community nurses are funded and employed by St Richard’s Hospice, we do not receive any funding from Macmillan Cancer Support however the job they do is very similar.
All of our services are available to patients in the South Worcestershire areas of Worcester, Evesham, Droitwich, Malvern and surrounding areas. We also offer in-patient care for patients from Wyre Forest, Kidderminster, Redditch and Bromsgrove areas.
Our family support team includes a Citizens’ Advice Bureau officer who provides practical advice and information on a variety of issues including employment, welfare benefits and debt.
St Richard’s strives to provide the best medical, practical, emotional and social support we can to help people live life to the fullest, as independently as they can, for as long as they can.
We thank you for your ongoing support,
Alice Spearing,
St Richard’s Hospice Engagement Officer