Nick Best – Occupational Therapist
Since launching in April 2019, more than 6,000 patients and their families in Great Yarmouth and Waveney have been supported by the free specialist palliative care provided by the joint partnership of St Elizabeth Hospice and East Coast Community Healthcare (ECCH).
Typically living with conditions such as cancer, heart failure, chronic lung diseases – such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – and neurological disorders, these patients have received free care through the partnership’s varied, specialist palliative care provision available at Beccles Hospital, in the community and through the service’s 24-hour advice line, OneCall.
One member of the hospice team in Great Yarmouth and Waveney is Nick Best, who is an occupational therapist and has been a part of the team since 2019.
“I find it really motivating to have a job which allows me to directly benefit people and help improve their quality of life,” said Nick.
“It’s so clear how the hospice’s support makes a real difference to people who need it – and that gives me a strong sense of purpose. I’m especially grateful to all the non-clinical teams and everyone who supports the hospice in any way – including fundraising and volunteering. Their dedication allows us to deliver our care and services.
“Before joining the hospice in 2019, I trained as an occupational therapist at the University of Northampton and went on to complete a master’s degree in Neurological Occupational Therapy at Coventry University. I then worked in both mental health and acute general hospital settings.
“I’m proud to work for St Elizabeth Hospice. I really value the time and focus we’re able to give each patient. It’s brilliant to be part of an organisation that supports people and their families through some of life’s most challenging times, offering compassionate care and guidance.
“In the therapies team, we support patients and families with symptom self-management, particularly around fatigue, breathlessness, anxiety and pain.
“We also assess for care needs, help people manage everyday tasks and can order assistive equipment to help promote independence. Our care is delivered across the Great Yarmouth and Waveney area in people’s homes, at outpatient clinics and in the Inpatient Unit at Beccles Hospital.
“I am also currently studying for a three-year Advanced Clinical Practitioner Masters Degree Apprenticeship. An incredible opportunity that St Elizabeth Hospice supported me to pursue, which shows how committed the organisation is to developing its staff to provide the best possible care to patients and their families.
“Working at hospice can be emotional, but it is a tremendous honour to be welcomed into people’s lives at such a meaningful time.
“There’s usually a lot we can do to ease symptoms, improve comfort and help you make the most of each day. If you think we could help you or your loved, please don’t hesitate to get in touch – we’re here for you.”
