Here for you, every hour of the day

Our In-patient Unit provides individual, specialist care 24 hours a day. It’s a small, personal unit of just 10 beds, one of which is for respite on a weekly, Monday-to-Monday, basis. The remaining nine beds are dedicated to assessment, symptom control and terminal care.

24 Hour Advice Line

In keeping with our tradition of easing the most difficult journeys, we have a 24 hour advice line to help health care professionals and carers with symptom control and palliative care issues. We also have leaflets and accessible information and can arrange pre-admission visits to help allay your anxieties. Please ring 01606 551246.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the visiting hours?

Visiting hours are 'open' with no restrictions. It is, however, important that nursing care and consultation with medical staff take place – also that our patients are able to have some rest.

Will I be able to see a doctor?

There is a doctor on the premises every day Monday to Friday – also 'on call' evening and weekends.

Will the doctor know about my case and my medications?

Prior to your admission a referral form will have been sent. This will give details of your condition and needs. The In Care Staff liaise with hospital staff, GPs and the Community Nurses. You will be asked to bring your current medication with you. Your medicines will be prescribed by the hospice medical staff, any changes will be communicated to your GP on discharge. You will be sent home with a seven day supply of your medication (with a list of tablets taken, timings and usage).

Can children visit?

Yes – children are welcome with appropriate supervision for their safety.

Will I have to pay?

No – the care given at St Luke's is free. The hospice is a charity and not part of the NHS. 26% of our funding is supported by the local PCT.

How long can I stay in St Luke's?

The usual stay is for one or two weeks. However if your condition deteriorates or your symptoms are unstable, this stay may be extended.

If you are able to be discharged, help is available from our Social Worker to arrange extra care and support at home or in an alternative care setting.

Can my dog visit?

Yes. Animals (within reason) are welcome. They need to be kept under control at all times.

The In Care Unit is also visited by Tyne – the hospice 'Pat Dog', a Golden Labrador.

Is it possible for my relatives to get a meal at the hospice?

Yes, with some prior notice for the kitchen. There is a small charge for relatives.

I practice my religion – can I continue?

Yes. The In Care staff will support you in any way they can to enable you to continue to do what is important to you. Priests or pastors are also welcome. If you practice a Christian religion there is a hospice chaplain. A non-denominational service is held in the hospice chapel weekly. Local ministers are available for all the denominations and your own minister is welcome to visit.

I do not have cancer, can I still come into the In Care Unit?

Yes, all referrals are discussed and if your case meets the criteria for hospice care then a bed will be offered.

Is there a waiting list?

Yes, there may not be a bed available. Respite admissions are pre-booked. Every effort will be made to accommodate your need.

Can I smoke?

The hospice does not allow smoking on its premises in accordance with the law.

A dispensation is given to patients and there is a facility to smoke (for patients only) in an out building.

A curfew operates and smoking is not permitted at night.

I am seen by a Macmillan Nurse at home. Can I keep in touch?

The Community Macmillan Nurses are based at the hospice – visits can be arranged.

If my husband becomes very ill, will I be able to stay with him?

Yes – there is a Guest Suite for relatives to stay at night – also provision can be made at the bedside.

If I become very sick, will my wife be supported?

Yes. The staff will explain and discuss all aspects of your care and condition. Support of family is an important part of the work on the In Care Unit.

I go to the Day Care Unit. Can I continue this if I am admitted?

Yes, if you feel well enough to attend, this will be arranged.

Can I keep my hospital appointment?

If you are well enough and wish to attend this can be arranged with hospice staff, either by your own transport if this is appropriate or by ambulance which will need to be booked in advance.

What does palliative care mean?

Palliative Care is offered when cure is not possible. Palliative Care is supportive care which emphasizes the best Quality of Life – and addresses symptom control issues as well as all aspects of physical, emotional and spiritual care. Palliative Care offers support to the person who is ill and to their loved ones.

Can my family help with my care?

Yes, this can be discussed with staff and used in your individual care plan.

It is important to remember that your relative may need some 'time out' whilst you are on the In Care Unit and staff will be able to help you in all areas – and are happy to care for you.

Are patients only referred when they are dying?

No – many patients are discharged from the In Care Unit. It may be that the hospice is the place you wish to die.

What about resuscitation?

When someone is deteriorating and death is close, resuscitation will not be appropriate. Discussions with staff can be arranged on an individual basis. The emphasis is put on care and support leading to a 'peaceful death' – if the time has arrived.