MYTH - Hospices are gloomy places.

Reality

In the Visitors' book, the words most frequently used to describe both hospices are “warm, relaxed, peaceful and “like a second home”. The care, kindness, understanding, and un-pressurised manner demonstrated by staff working throughout St. Margaret’s, are constantly alluded to. Improving the quality of life and making patients feel valued is a core aspiration of palliative medicine. Care is given to the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of the individual. Complementary therapies, the presence of a chaplain, carefully designed and maintained gardens and thoughtful catering all play an important part in this holistic care. All meals are prepared in the hospice kitchens and meal trays are always decorated with a small vase of flowers. Sherry and lager are always on the menu as an aperitif and it is not unusual to find the kitchens preparing food for a special occasion such as a birthday or wedding anniversary. We have even been known to host weddings and Christenings and any excuse for a party is a good one!