Patient’s family praise Wrexham hospice after new direct admissions service gave them a lifeline

The family of a patient who received care in a Wrexham hospice has praised staff after a brand-new referrals and admissions service, introduced because of Covid-19, gave them a lifeline for their loved-one’s care.

Gareth Valentine Jnr of Rhosllanerchrugog said his late father, Gareth Valentine Snr, age 60 was experiencing difficulties at home due to his life-limiting illness, so he rang the advice line.

“I spoke to the nurse in charge and they gave me help and guidance over the telephone and reassured me,” he said.

“After chatting through the options it was decided that dad should be admitted to Nightingale House and the wheels were put in motion immediately.

“The staff have been incredibly helpful, ensuring that my father’s needs came first. I just want to say a massive thank you to them all for everything they have been doing during these exceptional times, and I will be organising a fundraising event as soon as possible”

He added: “It’s the little things like this that make such a difference.

“My dad was really happy at the hospice where he had a dignified and comfortable end to his life with the family around him.”

Cath Evans, admissions and discharge facilitator at Nightingale House Hospice, said; “It was becoming difficult for patients and their families to access care quickly due to the restrictions placed on all of us working in health at the moment.

“Patients and their families don’t need a doctor’s referral to ring us as we can follow up the detailed paperwork with district nurses and GP practices after the call.

“We are finding that it takes the stress off patients and their families who are under tremendous strain anyway. At the hospice we pride ourselves on our nurturing approach to patient care and are really pleased that we have been able to help Gareth and his family during this difficult time.

“This is a new service we are trialling, and there will be lessons learnt along the way, but our aim is to try and support as many people as possible who need our services.”

Admissions and referrals can be made directly on 01978 316800.