“Attending the Community Care Unit is something I look forward to every week,” said Margaret Lewis, who has been using the hospice’s Community Care Unit services (previously known as Day Care services) for a number of years.
“I have found the Community Care Unit benefits both my physical and mental wellbeing. It really has become a part of my weekly routine and I enjoy getting there nice and early, so I can have a quick cup of coffee in Moments Dining Room before I start my session.”
The Community Care Unit, which launched in 2021 to replace the former Day Care services, operates from the hospice site in Ipswich, Beccles Hospital and Martham Medical Centre & Louise Hamilton Centre in Great Yarmouth and Waveney.
It offers the opportunity for patients’ wellbeing and social needs to be met, while also enabling the convenience of all necessary healthcare appointments to be organised and completed in one location on the same day.
“I have been diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, which means I find it difficult to breathe and exercise,” explained Margaret, who lives in Ipswich.
“My family and I first learned of St Elizabeth Hospice’s Community Care Unit support and how they could help with my breathing, and later discovered the gym and physiotherapy sessions the charity offers.
“I first encountered the hospice, over 20 years ago, when my Mum was seeking care for her cancer diagnosis, but I was not aware the hospice provided such a wide range of services to support people who are living with diverse conditions and illnesses.
“I attend my gym sessions every Monday at the Community Care Unit, and they help so much. Everyone at the hospice, from the other patients and the receptionists to the cleaners, the volunteers and all the Community Care Unit team, is so lovely and kind.
“They are really good people, and I have found the Community Care Unit team to be a great support, guiding me through the range of equipment available at the hospice gym.
“I really enjoy using the treadmill, as I used to love walking and exploring the seaside and the outdoors before my illness. After exercising, I do feel quite good, and it is nice to know the staff keep an eye on you and how you are getting on.
“As well as this, it is so reassuring to know my family and I have the support of their 24/7 phone help line, OneCall, should I ever need help at home.
“A lot of people don’t realise St Elizabeth Hospice has services like the Community Care Unit, but I would really recommend that they pick up the phone and reach out to the hospice, as they can make such a difference to your life.”
Margaret and her family have found the St Elizabeth Hospice team has brought great reassurance and support, during their time using the Community Care Unit.
So much so that, in August 2024, her daughter Cheryl completed an abseil for the charity, raising over £280 as a ‘thank you’ for the support they have received.
Cheryl said: “It was a massive challenge, but one I enjoyed so much. The hospice has been fantastic for Mum and our whole family, and this was an opportunity to show our gratitude for what they do.
“Mum gets so much out of what the hospice provide, and for us, it is great to know she has an opportunity to exercise and socialise with people.
“She loves her weekly visits, chatting with staff, patients and volunteers, going to the gym and enjoying the tranquility of the peaceful, hospice garden.
“St Elizabeth Hospice has given Mum a new lease of life. It really is a special place and one that means so much, to lots of people in the local community.”
More details about the Community Care Unit can be found at www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/how-we-can-help/hospice-care/community-care-unit.