Hospice of the Valleys - HISP Launch

HISP Launch

There is still a lot of stigma regarding the word Hospice; what it is and what it can offer and we continue to attempt to challenge that stigma.

One of the ways that we are looking to address this is by launching our Hospice Information and Support Point (H.I.S.P.) in Ebbw Vale Library on Friday 13th March, at 10:00am.

The HISP is intended to establish, develop and maintain a visible presence in the local community, which is easily accessible to all.

The presence in the library on a weekly basis will allow people to pop in and gain advice, information and how referrals can be made to our service.

Alongside this we hope that having a community presence will help raise the profile of the charity locally and also start to break down the stigma associated with Hospice services.

We are grateful to Aneurin Leisure for supporting us in such a great local venue, so please, come along to say hello and support the launch.

We want to create every opportunity to share knowledge of our service, to ensure that our community receives the support that they require, when they need it most.

The HISP is temporarily suspended but we look forward to getting back to the Library as soon as it is safe to do so!

The HISPs will be at Ebbw Vale Library every Friday morning, 10:00am – 12:00pm.

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.