A TILEHURST hospice is holding a recruitment and careers day.
The Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice says the unique event will give registered nurses and allied health professionals the chance to get a glimpse into what it is really like to work in palliative care.
And staff hope the move will bust myths many people hold about the role of a hospice nurse.
Helen Kane, team leader at Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice, said: “People might expect that working in a hospice is depressing, but it’s not at all – we’re a happy workforce and there’s actually a lot of laughter with patients and their relatives.
“We keep morale high, we support each other and knowing we have made a difference is really uplifting.
“We are not just about death, dying and holding hands at the end of life. Palliative care is a true specialism focused on pain control, expert symptom management and psychological, social and emotional support.”
Tours of the hospice and inpatient unit, the chance to speak directly to staff already working in palliative care and the opportunity to be interviewed on the day will all be on offer alongside refreshments.
Head of quality and community services, Sarah Johnston, hopes by opening the hospice doors many more people will see just what a rewarding career this specialist area of care offers.
“I love that I am making a difference in the community where I live and what has really stood out to me since I joined the team last year is the lovely atmosphere and just how supportive everyone is. The staff here will go above and beyond not just for their patients, but colleagues too,” she said.
“Working in palliative care is so rewarding and it’s a privilege to be part of each patient’s unique journey. We have one chance to make a patient and their loved one’s experience the best it can be, and we aim to achieve this at every level by providing high-quality holistic care.”
To find out more or register for the Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice careers information day on Wednesday, March 15, between 10am-1pm, visit www.sueryder.org/careersday or email: healthcare.recruitment@sueryder.org
