SUPPORTER MAGAZINE ISSUE EIGHT | FREE PROVIDING SPECIALIST END OF LIFE CARE FOR ADULTS IN DORSET WITH A LIFE LIMITING ILLNESS, AND SUPPORTING THEIR LOVED ONES How a bull helped raise £5,000 for Weldmar: Brenda and Barry’s story – pages 10 & 11 And many more stories from across Weldmar Hospicecare Being supported by Weldmar's ‘huge knowledge and experience’: Sam’s story – pages 4 & 5 A Day in the Life of Weldmar at Home – page 3 Meet the Fundraiser – page 9
Welcome to our latest Supporter Magazine Caroline Hamblett, CEO On behalf of everyone at Weldmar, thank you for supporting us and allowing us to continue caring for A very warm welcome to our eighth people in Dorset. edition of your Supporter Magazine – it only feels a few months ago that I was writing this introduction for our early 2023 edition, how time flies. Already this year we have seen the demand for our services increase dramatically, not just in the community but across everything that we provide. We’re experiencing a much more challenging financial climate as monthly outgoings for us have increased over the last twelve months. The cost of delivering our care is absolutely no exception, with supplies, resources and medication all costing us more than this time last year. But, one thing that hasn’t changed is the high quality of our vital care and support, to everyone who needs us most throughout Dorset, providing this care completely free of charge. We’re supporting people like Sam and his wife, Lindsey who have shared their story on page 5. We’re enabling patients like Maria to achieve an ambition and give back for her care, on page 11. And, with your help we can ensure our specialist support is available to everyone who needs us whether that’s physiotherapy, occupational therapy, counselling, relaxing treatments, receiving the very best care at our Inpatient Unit or at home, and so much more. This edition of our Supporter Magazine shines a spotlight on all of that and more. But, you, our wonderful supporters, stand by us. Whether it’s attending one of our events, shopping in our charity stores or auctioning a bull (seriously, check out page 10!) – we truly do thank you. As we look ahead to mark thirty years of hospice care throughout Dorset in 2024 there is one thing that is certain. We couldn’t be here, right now and in the future, if it wasn’t for you. On behalf of us all – genuinely, thank you. Almost 3,000 people attended Weldmar's second Music By The Lake held at Dorchester Showground this summer. Leading tributes to Take That, Queen, Whitney Houston, Tom Jones, Kylie, and Elton John entertained revellers over the weekend, which raised an incredible £45,000! Plans are well underway for Music By The Lake ’24, so make sure you keep up to date with news and announcements at www.musicbythelake.net, or by following Music By The Lake on Facebook or @musicbythelake on Instagram. Music By The Lake – a weekend we’ll ‘Never Forget!’ 2 weldmarhospicecare.org
WELDMAR AT HOME My day begins at 7:30am. I’ll check messages and patient records to identify any changes in patient needs or circumstances, and whether I would need a conversation with a patient’s Weldmar Community Nurse. I’ll also find out if there are new people for me to see, and familiarise myself with their notes. I’m based in Dorchester, but I ‘fill the gaps’ all over the county. This could be holiday and sickness cover, or wherever we might have a high number of referrals. “When I arrive to an appointment, the first thing to offer is a big smile!” I’ll ask the patient and their family members about how things have been since the last visit. For example, if they say they are only able to sleep on one side, there is a risk of pressure sores so I can check these out myself as well as adding to their notes later. I can help the patient feel fresher, whether that's a full body wash, cleaning teeth, brushing hair, personal care, or shaving. I might need to change the bedding. “I’m also there to support their loved ones. Not surprisingly, they might be upset, anxious, or even angry at the situation they’re in. I’ll talk calmly with them, provide reassurance, and perhaps give them a chance to go for a walk or have time out. Sometimes people need a listening ear, or want to chat – I’m always happy to talk about my experiences in musical theatre!” One lady I cared for said she used to be a tap dancer, and was showing me old photos. Every household is different, and it’s important to treat people as individuals. With the nature of what we do, we are often there when a patient dies. When this happens, I can help to make them ready for their loved ones to have the opportunity to spend some time with them. I’ll offer to call the District Nurse or GP to verify the death, and provide other advice – ‘What do I need to do next?’ is a very common question in these circumstances. As well as our visits, we also meet as a team every few weeks, which is really useful as we’re normally spread out across the county. We’ll talk about what’s happening around the organisation so we feel part of what’s going on, we meet new colleagues, and talk about our experiences and how we can improve what we do. One of the great things about Weldmar is the ongoing commitment to our development. I’ve just completed my Level 3 Lead Adult Care Worker qualification, and there are opportunities to gain additional knowledge, including weekly bitesize training sessions. We have great support with the opportunity to debrief with line managers in 1:1 meetings, and we also have opportunities to talk about our own wellbeing and self care. The support from the office is immense, we have a great team who co-ordinate us to provide care when and where it is needed. As colleagues, we know we can lean on each other for support too. This job means everything to me. I’m very passionate about providing high quality care, particularly for those at the end of life because my best friend passed away from Hodgkins Lymphoma. I strongly believe in providing care to patients the way you would to a family member. A Day in the Life ... Health Care Assistant Georgia Daw, from Weldmar at Home Weldmar at Home launched in 2021, providing care in the final weeks of life to patients who would prefer to be in the familiar and comfortable surroundings of their own home. The service recently expanded to provide care across the Purbeck area, as well as the north, south, and west of Dorset. 01305 261800 3
PATIENT AND FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY WELDMAR COMMUNITY NURSES “You realise there’s an awful lot of support out there from Weldmar, and they do it fantastically well and with do it willingly and seamlessly, and I can’t speak highly enough of them”
During the spring and summer of 2020, Sam and Lindsey Halford from Weymouth looked forward to Thursday evenings. It was at the peak of the first wave of coronavirus, the country was in a strict lockdown, and charities such as Weldmar were looking at alternative ways of fundraising and engaging with their supporters in the absence of events, and shops being closed. Thursday meant quiz night on Weldmar’s Facebook page, and Sam, Lindsey, and their family and friends, would tune in at 8pm to take part in the live and interactive quiz. One of the initial reasons for doing so was to support Weldmar, who had cared for both of Lindsey’s parents. By his own admission, Sam considered himself ‘indestructible’. He was healthy, active, but following a shock diagnosis at Dorset County Hospital, he was referred to Weldmar, who were there to offer support straight away. “All of a sudden, being told that you’re not so healthy, and a little less indestructible, to have that support and be able to talk to someone to find out what’s going on is invaluable,” explains Sam. “It’s a cloak of goodwill they wrap around you, a sense of ‘I’m there alongside you’. You’ve got people with huge experience and skills there to support you, and in a nice way, guide you to pathways you haven’t thought of yourself.” With the household still in a state of turmoil following the news, and a hospital bed set up in the family living room, Weldmar Community Nurse Lucy Moxham appeared on the doorstep. “She’s so knowledgeable,” says Sam. “She sat in the chair with a beaming smile, a beaming personality, tons of positivity about her, and was a great help. I had come home from hospital with a huge bag of medication, and she took me through what each one was for.” “In January, my heart had gone down to working at a capacity of just 5%. My big worry was when do you know it’s going to be your last day? If my heart was to give up, how would that manifest itself? Lucy was very straight with me - kind, but direct, and it’s given me comfort to know what might just happen. That was very valuable to me because I can pocket that in my brain, and say, ok, I can deal with that. My heart has got better and stronger, and Lucy comes to see me and tells me I’m looking great, which is nice to hear when you know inwardly that you’re not. We’re both rugby fans so we chat about that, which is nice. I know she’s on the end of a phone if I need her, and if not Lucy then one of her colleagues.” Sam, understandably, admits to having a tough time mentally during those early stages of his care, and saw a Weldmar counsellor – Lucy Cruickshank. “I had a bit of a cry,” explains Sam, “and it was good to get my emotions out. The overriding thing was that I felt she always had time to give, even though she would have a schedule. Each session took as long as it took, which was wonderful. We talked about the effect on me, my family, and friends. She bought with her a box of tricks that included a pack of cards with various pictures, symbols and colours that we would place in piles. She would ask why I had included some and discarded others. I would have dismissed it as mumbo jumbo previously, but actually it was very effective. It was a great starter to talk about my feelings.” As well as Lucy and Lucy, Sam has also had regular sessions with Sally Star from Weldmar’s Complementary Therapy team. “Sally is quite special,” says Sam, “and she would lie me down on the hospital bed and give me a massage.” “I’m quite a chatty chap, but chats can feel a little awkward during things like that, and I was feeling a bit self conscious having lost some weight, but Sally has a lovely manner and really puts you at ease. I would relax, and zone out or even fall asleep very easily” There was a choice of aromas depending on how I was feeling and what I needed. She also came with some tuning forks. She’d hit one to make it vibrate, and put it on your body where it causes a delicate, but rather pleasant, electric shock feeling, which really does ease the symptoms. As well as looking after me, she has also given Lindsey some treatments, and I knew she’s really valued that.” Although the hospital bed has been packed away, Sam says that the realisation that he’s not as invincible as he once thought he was has been one of his biggest challenges in life. “To be told that you’re not going to have a long time, or be a strong as you were is something you’ve got to deal with. I’ve dealt with it by seeking knowledge, especially from the team at Weldmar. Finding out what the good and bad options are, how I’m doing, and what can I expect?” “Weldmar has come into our family very gently, but effectively and supportively. Without Weldmar, I think we’d be in a very dark place. They’ve kept us going. They come to see us and make us feel valued and special.” Sam’s Story “Weldmar’s care makes us feel valued and special” From left to right: Lucy Moxham, Weldmar Community Nurse; Lucy Cruickshank, Weldmar Counsellor and Sally Star, Complementary Therapy Lead 01305 261800 5
SUSTAINABLE FASHION PIONEERS Fast fashion is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions every year, and charity shopping helps slow down fast fashion by offering quality items at affordable prices. Our charity shops also recycle any clothing that isn’t fit for sale ensuring more items are kept out of landfill. We are passionate about promoting sustainable shopping and take part in national campaigns each year including Sustainable Fashion Week, Second Hand September, and Buy Nothing New month. THE PUBLIC FACE OF WELDMAR Our charity shops and outlets provide a public face for Weldmar Hospicecare in the local community, providing information about our services, and what your donations help to support. You can also find posters for upcoming events, latest job vacancies, and information on how to volunteer, not just in retail but across the charity, in our shop windows. Our staff and volunteers will always be happy to provide you with further information about Weldmar. Weldmar Hospicecare has a chain of charity shops across Dorset, including five larger outlets that sell furniture. We also have an eBay store, perfect to find some new-to-you treasures anytime you get the urge to shop! Our shops and outlets are more than just retail sites though, they provide so much more value to both Weldmar, and our local communities. Find your nearest Weldmar shop at weldmarhospicecare.org/shops HIGH STREET & COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS Charity shops add vibrancy and variety to our local high streets, helping to boost footfall and encourage people to visit nearby businesses. Our shops and outlets are also an important part of their local communities bringing shoppers, donors, volunteers and staff together. Taking part in sustainable fashion shows, working with local students on eco-friendly catwalk collections, and hosting literary events are just some of the ways that our retail shops and outlets are connecting with the community. 6 weldmarhospicecare.org
Why not volunteer in one of our retail shops and outlets? We are looking for friendly and enthusiastic individuals to join our retail team. Find out more on our website weldmarhospicecare.org/jobs 01305 261800 7 LOVE FASHION? WANT TO MEET NEW PEOPLE? LOOKING TO SHARE YOUR SKILLS? FUNDRAISERS The money raised in our charity shops and outlets across Dorset makes an incredible difference to the care we can provide, funding the entire charity for the equivalent of six hours every day! By choosing to donate and shop at our charity shops, you’re directly supporting local people who need our specialist end of life care. Did you know? You can also buy tickets for Your Hospice Lottery in all of our shops and outlets for just £1, with prizes up to £25,000! INCLUSION ADVOCATES Our charity shops bring people together from different backgrounds, whether they are staff, volunteers or shoppers, providing a positive and inclusive environment to connect, work and socialise, which also helps to tackle loneliness and social exclusion. Max says he volunteers at both our Clearance Outlet and on our delivery van because it “gets me out of the house and I can make friends”. Rachel from our Trinity Street shop says that volunteering is “really fun, you have a good laugh and meet lots of people from all walks of life.” RETAIL UPSKILLERS Working and volunteering in our charity shops offers lots of opportunities for learning new skills, gaining experience and building confidence. Susannah, one of our retail managers, recently completed her Level 3 Retail Team Leadership apprenticeship through Yeovil College, achieving a distinction. “People have commented that I’ve got more confident since I’ve completed my apprenticeship. I’ve always been a quiet person, but working in retail has brought me out of my shell.” Susanna realised her passion for learning whilst completing her apprenticeship and is going to head to university to study for a degree.
The little ticket that makes a BIG difference! You can win up to £25,000 with the Rollover Jackpot! Guaranteed weekly prizes of £1,000 and £250, and more than 200 £10 prizes. Find out more at weldmarhospicecare.org/lottery *April 2022 to March 2023. See all terms and conditions at weldmarhospicecare.org/lottery Supporters of Weldmar Hospicecare playing Your Hospice Lottery raised £198,195 last year!* Weldmar supporter Derek won £1,000 – you could be next! Easy to sign up online and play regularly or when you like A fun and affordable way to support Weldmar Grab a ticket from your nearest Weldmar shop Just £1 per ticket
“That was the very first one. I put a sign out there saying second hand bikes wanted, and they just kept coming in.” When the quite impressive total of £40,000 is mentioned, Danny is typically modest about it. “You can’t sell the bikes unless they’re given. I reckon it’s about a thousand bikes I’ve taken in over the years and they’ve all been donated. Some of them have been very good bikes. Those people have to be thanked.” Ask Danny why he has done so much for Weldmar and he tells you it’s an easy answer. His mother was cared for at the former Trimar Hospice at Greenhill, a day hospice that later became part of Weldmar Hospicecare. His friend, Margaret, whom Danny first met in 1997, was an active member of the Weymouth Friends group that supports the charity, and he helped her with fundraising—including those driveway sales—and was there during her own final moments at the Inpatient Unit in Dorchester. He remembers fondly how a nurse placed a rose on one side of her bed, and a candle the other. As a lifelong engineer, and someone with a passion for doing up vintage motorcycles, a few bicycle repairs were no great problem for Danny. It’s mostly fixing punctures, adjusting brakes and gears, or a frame that’s a bit bent out of shape. However, after fifteen years In the summer of 2023, Danny Collins turned 82. On his birthday, he was on the cusp of reaching a milestone of £40,000 raised for Weldmar Hospicecare, and knew that it was time to apply the brakes a little. Danny lives on Dorchester Road, and is famous locally for refurbishing donated bicycles and selling them on with all proceeds going to Weldmar. “Myself and two ladies used to run these weekly sales on the driveway,” explains Danny. “It was quite a lot of work setting up and packing away, and a lady turned up one week and asked if we wanted to sell a little bike. So I put it out the front, and it sold for £25” he’s now looking for someone else to take it on and become Weldmar’s next ‘bike hero’. “I really enjoy what I do with the bikes,” Danny told us, “and that’s the most important thing with any kind of volunteering.” “You can see how it makes a lot of people happy. A man came by and said his young son wanted to buy a bike and had been saving up his pocket money. He was so pleased about buying this bike for £25 and kept saying ‘thank you, thank you’” Danny’s hoping to spend more time enjoying his garden. “I’ve got quite a large garden and gardening is hard work when you’re eighty-odd years of age! That’s why I want someone to come and use the workshop, and fix the bikes. We can still sell them here so someone doesn’t need to take on the whole operation.” Thank you to Danny for his amazing fundraising and dedication over so many years. If you would like to find out more about helping with repairs, please call our Fundraising Team on 01305 261800. Danny the Bike Man – a wheel-ie impressive milestone! 01305 261800 9 With £40,000 raised, it’s time to change gear MEET THE FUNDRAISER
The steer was owned by Barry Tuck and Brenda House, part of their herd at their farm near Bere Regis. It was their daughter, Michelle, who said it would be a good idea to auction it for charity one day. Little could anyone in the family imagine that this would be in memory of Michelle, following her final days spent at Weldmar’s Inpatient Unit in Dorchester at the age of just 38. Michelle – Chelley to close friends and family – had three daughters, aged 11, 8, and 4. Very soon after her diagnosis, Weldmar’s Children and Young Person’s Bereavement Counsellor stepped in swiftly. Brenda says, “Sandra would come out to the farm and spend time with the girls. She would play with them or take them for a walk, giving them the opportunity to talk. It meant that if there was something they felt they couldn’t talk to us about, or their mum about, or didn’t want to make us cry, there was somebody there for them.” Sandra would also visit the children at school in Puddletown, away from the family home, and Brenda says the school were very accommodating and supportive. “They have transitioned through this period of not having a mummy anymore so confidently,” explains Brenda. “and that’s got to be down to being able to talk about it.” It was May 2022 when Michelle was admitted to hospital, and from there she moved directly to the hospice, and the news on her arrival came as something of a shock. Brenda says, “As soon as she got there, everyone was so open and honest with her, and that is what she wanted. A doctor came to see her and said it was highly unlikely she would be able to go home. She hadn’t realised the end was so close. It wasn’t pleasant to hear, but we needed that honesty” Brenda and Barry’s Story Many people have done unusual things to raise money for Weldmar Hospicecare over the years, but there was a first in late 2022 when a steer was auctioned at market, and raised an incredible £5,000. INPATIENT UNIT CHILDREN & YOUNG PERSON’S COUNSELLOR 10 weldmarhospicecare.org Above: Chelley. Right: Ian, Louise and Jo completing their London to Paris bike ride. Far right: the steer at auction.
Marie Baggaley is absolutely resolute that her cancer diagnosis will not stop her living life to the full. Although she initially beat the disease two years ago, it returned in January and Maria was referred to Weldmar Hospicecare – and she has just completed her very first wingwalk, which also helped raise money for the charity. Maria says, “My Weldmar Community Nurse, Selina, sees me at home and has been a great listener and encourages me to continue to think positively, and embrace what life I have.” “I go to the board games club on a Friday afternoon at Weldmar’s Inpatient Unit in Dorchester, which is one of their Wellbeing Sessions. It’s nice to have company as I live on my own, and feels very reassuring. I can just walk in, I can go and sit in the lovely gardens, and it’s nice to think of it as a second home before it might become a necessity. The sky’s the limit for Maria “She was there for ten days, and Weldmar couldn’t have done more for her. They offered her therapies and massages. The chef came in one day, and Chelley wasn’t really eating much, and they would have prepared anything for her that she wanted. You can see just how caring everybody there is.” The family were given Marion’s Room at the Inpatient Unit, which had only recently been opened – a new spacious and comfortable family room with additional beds, its own kitchenette and bathroom facilities, and lounge area. “We could take the girls in and not have to worry that they were disturbing anyone else,” says Brenda. “and we saw Sandra who continued to provide support for them. Having that room made such a difference to us. We felt so supported as a family, and they did everything they could to make Michelle, and us, as comfortable as we could be.” Barry says that they invited the auctioneer to come and see the steer soon afterwards. “The support we had through the worst time of our life made us want to do something for Weldmar” “The steer was valued at around twelve hundred pounds, so we hoped we could raise almost double and make £2,000. Southern Counties Auctioneers donated £500 which got us off to a great start. Normally you would just book a steer in for auction, but because we wanted to raise this money they advertised it in their catalogue beforehand.” This publicity from the auctioneer proved to make a huge difference. Unbeknown to Brenda and Barry, a local farmer who saw the advert had recently lost his wife – who was also cared for by Weldmar. He went to the auction with the express purpose of buying the steer. Along with a number of additional donations on the day, and a final top up from the couple themselves, they were able to present Weldmar with a cheque for £5,000. “The local farming community really came together,” says Barry, “and we are really grateful to them.” Michelle's family and friends have gone on to raise even more for Weldmar in her memory – cousin Louise, uncle Ian, and childhood friend Jo cycled from London to Paris, and raised a further £3,627! Brenda says it’s been important for them to support Weldmar. “It was just the kindness of everyone, and allowing us to be there. Because we had the family room someone could be with Chelley at all times, she knew we were there with her, and that meant everything to me.” 01305 261800 11 Watch the video! Or visit weldmarhospicecare.org/news Watch the video here!
Clare Bradbury Specialist Physiotherapist and Allied Health Professional Lead minutes with... I am part of a team who aim to make a difference to someone’s quality of life. I learn constantly from all the people I have the pleasure to work with, both clinical and non clinical staff throughout this organisation. I get enormous satisfaction from being able to make a difference to people’s lives at such an important time. I am never far from the coast – home or away. I have become hooked on sea swimming in all seasons and weathers! I also love spending time with my family and friends, usually enjoying a meal and glass of wine or two. I am often in charity shops (Weldmar is of course my #1!), doing my little bit for sustainability. The incredible ever changing coastline, beautiful countryside and sense of community. Adventurous (nothing ventured, nothing gained), Kind, Problem solver (a true physio!) Meeting and having the time with every person I care for. In palliative care it is satisfying to be able to give that time which I believe is so valuable and crucial, to ensure the delivery of the best possible care. I also love working within a charitable organisation, which is so vital to our local community. What do you like best about your job? What’s your favourite thing about Dorset? What do you like doing in your spare time? Complete this sentence: I like working at Weldmar because... Currently I work three days per week as Specialist Physiotherapist and Allied Health Professional Team Lead, and then I have another day as project coordinator for delivery of advance care planning training to care homes in Dorset. My job is an absolute privilege and I particularly enjoy the variety my job brings and the incredible people I work with every day. As a physiotherapist working in palliative care I work closely with other healthcare professionals advising and supporting patients and their carers and family members. I help them to adjust and adapt to symptoms they experience, aiming to improve their quality of life and live with dignity for as long as possible and maximise their wellbeing. What does your job at Weldmar involve? Suddenly I felt protected and not a nervous wreck. This was all down to the friendship, the watching over me by all the staff, and the encouragement to try hard. Besides all the treatment, it was their kindness and friendship that got me so much better. From a Patient Experience Questionnaire Give us three words that best describe you.
In 2011, my late wife Gill was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, from which she passed away in 2017. During her journey she found Weldmar Hospicecare extremely helpful. She used to attend Day Services (now our Wellbeing Support Sessions) in Dorchester every Tuesday where she met other patients who were in a similar position. They had a number of therapies including arts and crafts, and Gill really enjoyed and valued the day. During the last weeks of her life at home she was cared for by Weldmar nurses, for which I cannot thank them enough. The support was there for me too and that’s a fantastic thing. “Weldmar’s care for both Gill and I meant a great deal, it gave a lot of comfort, and you know they’re always on hand when you need help” As none of us know when we might need the help from Weldmar I’m appealing to you to consider leaving them a beneficiary in your Will. Thank you. My name is Anton Harler and I would like to tell you about my experience with Weldmar Hospicecare. “Why I’ve left a gift in my Will” It’s estimated that 61% of adults in the UK do not have a Will. Writing a Will ensures that your money and possessions are distributed according to your wishes, and reduces stress on your loved ones. It also means that you can leave a gift, either a specific sum or a percentage of your estate, to a charity that is close to your heart. It’s easier and more affordable than you think to leave a gift to Weldmar Hospicecare. Did you know that one in three patients is cared for as a result of gifts being left in Wills to Weldmar? Leaving a gift will help ensure future generations of Dorset families will benefit from our specialist end of life care, as it provides income in the future. As a Weldmar Hospicecare supporter, you can write or amend your Will for free at any time, thanks to our partnership with Guardian Angel. This can be done online, over the phone, or even in person, and is simple, quick, and secure. To find out more, please visit weldmarhospicecare.org/wills or call 01305 261800 and we can send you an information pack. 01305 261800 13
Don’t forget to find and follow Weldmar on social media You can keep up to date with all of our news, photos and videos! We are really looking forward to celebrating our anniversary with you, and we have lots of exciting things planned throughout the year! We are extremely proud of what we have achieved over the last 30 years in ensuring that we provide the highest quality end of life care for patients, and support for their loved ones. You have been a big part of this journey too. We would love to see and hear your stories and memories of Weldmar, whether this is in written form, photographs or videos. You might have a touching story about the care provided to a loved one, or how Weldmar have supported you. You might have taken on one of our overseas challenges, joined a Midnight Walk or another of our fundraising events, worked or volunteered with us, organised your own fundraiser, or been there when a building was opened – we want to hear from you! We know that all of your memories, big or small, are important to you, and they are just as important to us as well. Share your memories with us today at weldmarhospicecare.org/yourmemories, or scan the QR code above. Share your memories with us! 2024 will mark 30 years of Weldmar Hospicecare providing end of life care to patients, and support for their loved ones. 14 weldmarhospicecare.org
It’s easy to donate... By post using the donation form overleaf and returning it to us by Freepost Or online at weldmarhospicecare.org Every donation makes a difference! We are only able to continue providing our vital service across Dorset because of the goodwill and support from our local community. Please help us to continue our care I started my career at Weldmar in 2012. I was a newly qualified nurse, and I had completed a placement at the hospice as part of my nursing degree. I hadn’t thought about going into palliative care, but during the placement I found that it really aligned with my values as a nurse – being able to spend time with patients, using my communication skills, and my judgement to provide the very best care. By 2015 I had become a Senior Staff Nurse, which included the added responsibilities of leading shifts and managing colleagues for the first time. I was also given the opportunity to become a ‘champion’, where nurses can become the go-to person on a particular subject. I became Weldmar’s ‘tissue viability’ champion, meaning I would provide advice on managing wounds and pressure sores. 2018 was an important year for me. Thanks to my development and motivation, I was appointed a joint Infection Prevention Lead for the charity, which is of course a key role in a hospice. It was incredibly valuable to me to take on this role, especially at the time of Covid, when I had to make some very difficult decisions. It was also that year that I started my Apprenticeship in Advanced Nurse Practice, and due to a break because of the pandemic, I am just a few short months away from completing what is the equivalent of a Masters degree. I’m now in the role of Advanced Nurse Practitioner at Weldmar, meaning I work closely with our team of doctors and nurses, and I have further skills in diagnosing and assessing patients, I can prescribe, and so much more. If you’d said to me a few years ago I would be doing this now, I wouldn’t have believed you! Although I have the extra responsibilities and skills, I’m still very much patient facing, which is so important to me – it’s why I got into nursing in the first place. You have to continue learning in this profession, and Weldmar have given me the opportunity to do that as well as providing a very supportive network. When I completed a tough module recently, so many of my colleagues said congratulations. Not only is development encouraged, Weldmar give you the time to do it, and you have a team of doctors and nurses to support you who are all knowledgeable and skilful. It may sound a cliché, but Weldmar really does feel like a family to me. Career Opportunities at Weldmar Hospicecare Weldmar Hospicecare is proud to have an environment that encourages and enables staff to develop their skills and knowledge, and progress their career. Here, Advanced Nurse Practitioner Di Hartley shares her Weldmar journey. Susanna Greenslade, Retail. Susanna completed an apprenticeship in Retail Team Leadership Gloria McCartney, Fundraising. Gloria has progressed from Supporter Care Assistant to Fundraising Lead Careers at Weldmar range from nursing and caring through to retail, fundraising, and so much more. Every member of staff has the opportunity to take on education and development opportunities. Discover our current job vacancies at weldmarhospicecare.org/jobs, where you will also find all of our current opportunities for volunteering across the charity.
I would like to make a donation of: £10 £15 £20 £25 Other: I enclose a cheque/postal order - cheques payable to: Weldmar Hospicecare Trust (please do not send cash or CAF vouchers) OR, please debit my Visa / MasterCard / Maestro Card No. Valid from / Expiry Date / Issue No. Signature: Date: Title Surname Forenames Address Postcode Data Protection: From time to time we would like to keep you up to date with our hospice news, events and activities including how your support is helping to deliver outstanding hospice care. If you are happy to hear from us please tick below to indicate your contact preferences. Please email me. My email is: Please text me. My mobile number is: We will never sell, share or swap personal details and it’s easy to change our communications or stop at any time by calling 01305 261800 or visiting weldmarhospicecare.org/preferences. Your gift is more than a donation. It allows us to make a difference every single day. (if applicable) I would like information about leaving a gift in my Will Boosts your donation by 25p of Gift Aid for every £1 you donate In order to Gift Aid your donation, please tick the box below: I confirm that I would like all my donations, past, present and future, to Weldmar Hospicecare (registered charity no. 1000414) to be treated as Gift Aid donations. I understand that if I pay less Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax than the amount of Gift Aid claimed on all my donations in that tax year, it is my responsibility to pay any difference. Signature: Date: YOUR DETAILS YOUR DONATION EXTRA GIVING AT NO EXTRA COST Registered Charity No 1000414 Please return this form to: Fundraising, Freepost RUBH-USTR-LUJE, Weldmar Hospicecare, Trimar House, Cromwell Road, WEYMOUTH, Dorset, DT4 0JH PLEASE CUT ALONG FOLD Thank you for your support! " I’d like to support Weldmar Hospicecare COMMUNICATION OPTIONS This trip is operated by The Different Travel Company (ATOL 6706) for Weldmar Hospicecare (registered charity number 1000414). Join us for our biggest overseas adventure. To mark Weldmar Hospicecare's forthcoming 30th anniversary in 2024, we have two incredible overseas challenges to choose from! In November 2024, join us on the magical island of Madagascar. Or, in March 2025, you could be taking on one of the New Seven Wonders of the World – Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail. We'll support you all the way with training and your fundraising. Places are limited! Find out more at weldmarhospicecare.org