Keeley Burgess – Inpatient Unit Healthcare Assistant
Annually, St Elizabeth Hospice cares for more than 4,000 patients and their families throughout East & Mid Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney.
This care sees the independent Suffolk charity providing free services – whenever and wherever it is needed, whether at home, in the community or at the hospice – to those living with a progressive or life-limiting illness.
One member of the clinical team is Keeley Burgess, who is a healthcare assistant on the hospice’s Inpatient Unit in Ipswich.
“Working at St Elizabeth Hospice fills me with immense pride. I’m incredibly proud of the difference we make to people and their families at such an important time in their lives.
“Knowing that we can provide compassionate care, dignity and choice to people, at such an important time in their lives, makes this job so rewarding,” said Keeley, who joined the team in 2022.
“I’ve had the privilege of working both in the community, visiting patients in their homes the region, and now on our Inpatient Unit. Through these experiences, I’ve seen firsthand how the whole hospice team is united by our aim of providing individualised care to everyone we support.
“My connection to the hospice is also deeply personal. In 2022, my nan spent two weeks being cared for on our Inpatient Unit. I was in awe of the exceptional care and support the team gave to her and our whole family.
“Nothing was ever too much trouble, and the staff always went above and beyond. Even during one of the saddest times in our lives, they helped create moments of comfort and happiness that I still treasure today.
“From moving beds out to the hospice garden, so patients could enjoy the sunshine, to letting us set up an Alexa so Nan could listen to her favourite music – those thoughtful, personal touches made such a difference.
“They helped us create special memories, during the precious time we had left together. Receiving that level of compassion, as a family member, inspired me to follow this career path.
“Every day, I’m motivated to offer patients and families the same comfort, dignity and compassionate care that my nan and our family experienced from the hospice team. Knowing I can make a difference during such an important time in someone’s life is incredibly rewarding.
“A typical day as an Inpatient Unit Healthcare Assistant sees me provide hands-on personal care to ensure our patients are comfortable and their needs are met. My support extends to their families too, offering emotional support as they navigate incredibly difficult times.
“We’re here for patients and their families when it matters most. But without the incredible generosity of our local community, we simply wouldn’t be able to provide this care.
“Whether it’s through donating, volunteering, shopping in one of our many shops or taking on a fundraising challenge, there are lots of ways to support us.
“Every contribution helps us continue providing care to people living with life-limiting illnesses in our local community.
“You never know when you may need the hospice. But if that time comes, you can be reassured our team will be here, so you don’t have to face those moments alone.”