Every shift is different and, of course, allocations can change at any time.
Before 5pm, we receive details of the patient we will be supporting that night from our manager, Rachel. Along with the allocation, we receive care plans, risk assessments, contact details and information about who will be providing support overnight.
The evening begins with a phone call to the family to briefly introduce myself and explain the service. Often, I can hear the relief in their voices when they know support is definitely coming that night. It gives them reassurance that they can get some rest, knowing their loved one, and they themselves, will be supported.
When I arrive, I try to bring a smile and reassurance that everything is okay and that they can trust me with their most precious loved one.
First visits are often the most difficult because families are unsure what to expect or exactly what we do. It must be incredibly hard to welcome a stranger into your home at such a vulnerable time and then try to rest while someone else takes over. Before I worked for Hospice at Home, I was that family member looking for support, so I completely understand those feelings.
Making the patient the number one focus of every sit, while helping families rest and recharge, is one of the most rewarding parts of the role. We do not look for praise or gratitude. We simply want to know that the patient is comfortable and that their family has had the opportunity to take some time for themselves. It is lovely to know you have made even a small difference.
Some patients live alone, so we work to gain their trust too, delivering the best care we can and reassuring them that, during their time of need, they are not alone.
Every sit is different. Our patients can be of all ages, some mobile and some bedbound, with a wide range of diagnoses including dementia, COPD and cancer.
Sometimes we simply sit, chat and share a cup of tea. However, our role covers all aspects of care, including personal and emotional support. We monitor patients for pain and discomfort and, whenever additional support is needed, we work closely with our specialist nurses and the Community District Nursing Team.
I feel very privileged to represent Hospice of the Valleys in my role as a Hospice at Home Support Worker and to make even a small difference as part of such an amazing team. We would not be able to do our jobs without the support of our manager, who champions us in our roles and provides both positive and constructive feedback.
I have only been in this role for a short time, but one comment has stayed with me. While supporting a gentleman, his wife said:
"You came in a stranger, but you're leaving my friend."
That was so lovely to hear and meant so much to me, because it showed that I had gained her trust.
