Welcome to the St Barnabas House Blog

Dying Matters Week – Helping you talk about death

This year’s Dying Matters Week (6-12 May) will explore the way we talk about death and dying. Our presence and words can build bridges of connection and comfort, as chaplain Sarah Bell explains.

Michael and Barbara’s story

"We felt so welcome when we first arrived, and nothing seems like too much trouble. Everybody we have met has been absolutely brilliant."

What is the night shift at a hospice like?

"One of the best things about working nights is time. I enjoy feeling that I can give my absolute best to every patient. People feel more vulnerable at night, and we've got the time to offer them a bit more emotional support."

How your business can support your local hospice

Find out how supporting your local hospice is great for morale and staff engagement, as well as making employees feel proud of the place that they work for their commitment to supporting a local cause.

Help with sleeplessness when you’re receiving palliative care

Complementary Therapist, Mel, gives us some top tips for sleeping and relaxation if you're living with a life-limiting illness.

Looking back over 50 years of loving hospice care

St Barnabas House opened in 1973 and fifty years on, the support from our local community has helped care for more than 45,000 local people and their loved ones.

George’s story

"When George eventually agreed to me calling St Barnabas, I felt utter relief as his symptoms were so complex that we couldn’t cope at home."

Helen and Adrian’s story

"Whilst I’m lucky to have an amazing support network, grief still left me feeling lonely and isolated. Because, until you have experienced the pain of loss, I don’t think you can fully understand how it feels. "

What is a bereavement support group?

Counsellor, Alice, tells us all about the Connections bereavement group aims to bring together people who are isolated in their grief.

Volunteering as a bereavement counsellor

Belinda, a volunteer counsellor, has been at St Barnabas for six years after initially joining us on a placement. She tells us what its like volunteering with patients and families.

Fiona’s story

"Despite all this, Mum’s happiness and humour was quickly picked up on by the nurses and it was beautiful to see the connection they had with her. "

Tony’s Story

"The pain of losing your partner, your soulmate, is almost impossible to describe. I miss his laughter and his crazy socks every day. But I can honestly say that saying goodbye to Tony was easier thanks to the support of St Barnabas. "