Hospice of the Valleys - Back in the Classroom!

Back in the Classroom!

May 2022 saw the re-introduction of the Hospice of The Valleys, 2 day Education programme; The principles and Practices of Palliative & End of Life Care.

This was the first face-to-face teaching session since the start of the pandemic. There was a general feeling among the attendees about how nice it was to get back in the classroom.

This palliative care programme aims to ensure that health and social care professionals are fully equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver the care required. The programme, delivered by the Hospice multi-disciplinary team, focuses on Symptom Control in Palliative Care on Day 1, and Interactive Skills on Day 2. Health and Social care professionals deliver the majority of care, however, some of them may have not had access to education and training in palliative care and some may not be aware of the expertise available from specialist palliative care services.

This year the sessions were delivered at a new venue, RTB Bowls Club, Ebbw Vale. We have received positive feedback from the delegates and we are looking forward to running the next programme in October 2022, with dates planned for March 2023 too.

“Very good course, each session was beneficial. Everyone who talked made each session interactive, which made them more enjoyable”

“Great course – interesting content delivered at correct level. Relaxed atmosphere, I felt able to comment and participate”

For any enquires regarding this please contact Rachel Watkins 01495 717277.

Phil was shell shocked when diagnosed with Prostate Cancer three years ago, age 44. Not knowing where else to turn, Phil self-referred to the hospice, already aware of the service as his father- in- law had received support. “When I was diagnosed I was unsure where to turn. The hospice helped me understand my diagnosis and then explained the services they could provide to support me and my family” Shortly after Phil’s referral his specialist nurse saw he was suffering from a number of stress induced problems and suggested complementary therapy. “I was sceptical to begin with, but I could soon feel the benefits. My stress levels decreased and my sleep dramatically improved”. Phil received reflexology, massage and aromatherapy he also received these treatments when staying at Ysbyty Aneurin Bevan hospital. The treatments improved Phil’s physical and psychological symptoms, allowing him to open up, discussing his fears and anxieties in a safe and relaxed environment. “It was my oasis in life, it was me time and I didn’t get that anywhere else. I would highly recommend having complementary therapies to anyone who is unsure. They have helped me no end and I haven’t looked back since” Phil explained. During Phil’s journey he accessed a variety of the hospice’s services including family support, nursing and therapies. The clinical team worked together providing the support Phil needed. Phil was discharged from the hospice as his symptoms were controlled and stable. Although Phil was anxious about discharge, he worked with the team and knows that should anything change, the hospice is only ever a phone call away.