Families of patients receiving end-of-life care at Walsall’s Goscote Hospice are benefiting from a new refreshments hub, thanks to a charity’s corporate sponsor.
Walsall Healthcare’s Well Wishers charity works closely with businesses across the borough and one of its corporate sponsors is Walsh Funerals and Memorials.
Back in July last year, Walsh’s worked with the hospice which was developing a dedicated space for relatives to access snacks and refreshments while spending time with loved ones in the inpatient palliative care unit.
Walsh’s has funded and continues to supply the hub with a monthly delivery of long-lasting items including crisps, tinned soup, cup-a-soup, biscuits, chocolate snacks, croissants and flapjacks.
The snacks are placed in a basket within the relatives’ room, ensuring families have easy access to food and drink at any time. And those who use the hub have also found it a safe space to talk to and support each other.
The idea was developed after conversations between hospice staff and Walsh’s, recognising that there are limited shops nearby and kitchen facilities are only available at certain times.
Deb Jones, Senior Sister at Goscote Hospice, said: “This has made a real difference for our families. Having access to simple refreshments without needing to leave the hospice takes away an added worry at a very difficult time.
“It’s also been lovely to see how families have come together, with some choosing to bring items back to restock the basket. It’s created a real sense of community and support.”
Rainer Derry from Walsh Funerals and Memorials said: “We’re proud to support Goscote Hospice.
“It’s a small thing in practical terms, but if it helps make life a little easier for families at such a difficult time, then it’s absolutely worth doing. The response from staff and families has been amazing to hear.”
Georgie Westley, Fundraising Manager for Well Wishers, added: “We’re really grateful to Walsh’s for supporting this project.
“This has had a big impact. Making sure families feel supported and cared for during such an important time is exactly what Well Wishers is here to do.”