Hospice News

Patient Care Stories

Our new Gardener, Anneke, started working in the Hospice Gardens in the autumn. She brings a vast amount of knowledge and experience to the role having previously worked at the Royal Gardens at Highgrove.

"St Peter's Hospice was on my radar before I applied for the job because my friend came here for her end-of-life care" says Anneke.

"The IPU staff were very accommodating, they arranged a Christmas party for a group of our friends, just like we always did at home. I visited my friend the day before she died, at that point she couldn't talk any more. I wanted to talk to her but felt awkward having a one-sided conversation until I looked out at the garden and started describing what I could see. I realised how important it is for patients and visitors to be able to look out and see a beautiful environment.

"At the moment most of the garden is set out for sitting and reflecting, but I'd like to create a working garden with opportunities for people to get involved in growing.

"This year we're going to trial a new gardening group with Day Services where patients can get involved, sow seeds and use the raised beds for growing plants.

"We've begun work to grow cut flowers for the Hospice, digging over the soil in preparation for sowing. To keep the Brentry site looking welcoming we have a team of ten cut flower volunteers who arrange vases of blooms around the Hospice. Currently, we buy the flowers in, but we could grow them here using organic methods. So we're making a start this year.

"The highlight of my week is when the garden volunteers come in to help. I have 25 volunteers in total who turn up each week whatever the weather, some have been here for 25 years. They offer wise words, make me laugh and do a fantastic job."

Care in the Hospice