St Wilfrid's Hospice, Chichester: Busting the myths that surround the care and funding of our precious hospices
One of the most common myths is that hospice care is only available in the final days of life. In reality, hospices support people much earlier, helping them live as well as possible for as long as possible.
This was a key message I took away when I spent time at the incredible St Wilfrid’s Hospice, Chichester, in my capacity as High Sheriff of West Sussex where I met Chief Executive Lois Howell to learn more about the vital role the hospice plays in our community.
During our conversation, Lois and I discussed how, despite the outstanding work hospices do, several misconceptions about hospice care still persist.
Care can be provided for months, and sometimes years, giving patients and their families practical support, expert symptom management and emotional reassurance throughout their journey.
Another misunderstanding is that hospice care only takes place within the hospice building itself. While St Wilfrid’s inpatient unit provides specialist care for those who need it, much of the hospice’s work happens out in the community.
Its teams support patients in their own homes across the local area, helping people receive care in the place that feels right for them.
Many people are also surprised to learn that hospice care is completely free for patients and families.
St Wilfrid’s is a charity, and at a time when people are facing some of life’s greatest challenges, access to hospice services is based solely on need, never the ability to pay.
And perhaps the biggest misconception of all is that hospices are fully funded by the NHS. While the NHS provides a small contribution, St Wilfrid’s Hospice relies heavily on the generosity of local people through donations, fundraising, gifts in Wills, charity shops and community support to fund the majority of its crucial services, which cost over £11 million a year to run.
The professionalism and dedication of the team shine through - but also the compassion that underpins everything they do. Hospices like St Wilfrid’s are an essential part of our community, offering comfort, dignity and support to local people when it is needed most.
The more we understand what hospice care really is and how it is funded, the better placed we are to ensure these invaluable services remain available for future generations.
[] The High Sheriff of West Sussex is an independent, non-political, and voluntary royal appointment. The office represents the Crown for matters relating to the judiciary, law, and order, while acting as a high-profile champion for local communities and voluntary services. It is entirely unpaid. Separately, Mr Shipton is the Editor At Large of SussexWorld and its sister newspapers – reflecting his involvement with the titles dating back nearly half a century.