New Services

At Teesside Hospice we care for local people and families affected by terminal illness. Our services and support are continually developing and changing to ensure we provide the best level of care to meet the needs of our patients.

Neurological group

On the 18^th March, we launched a Neurological Group. A dedicated day to those in our community living with a neurological condition including Parkinson’s disease and Motor Neurone disease. It was identified that whilst those living with these complex illnesses are supported by the specialist teams at James Cook University Hospital, there was a need to provide additional support.

The effects of neurological conditions vary considerably. Mobility is often a concern alongside the slowing of functions including speech. Whilst medical intervention can help to manage and reduce these symptoms, they can still majorly affect the day-to-day life of those living with these complex disorders.

At Teesside Hospice we offer holistic care, it is about the whole person, not just a patient or diagnosis. With the neurological group, we have a range of additional support including complementary therapies such as aromatherapy, reflexology, massage, art therapy, acupuncture and more. We provide an environment where people feel included and understood, with what can be alienating diseases. These alternative treatments help to alleviate symptoms, providing relaxation and an open forum to discuss worries, as well as providing a time to come together and socialise.

If this is something you feel you could benefit from, you can call our team on 01642 811069.

Caring for Carers

Caring for Carers is now open to anyone in Teesside caring for someone with a terminal illness – plenty of tea and coffee and a warm welcome are guaranteed.

Caring for someone has huge physical and emotional demands that can impact your own health, finances and sense of identity. Our Carers Group, known as Caring for Carers, is a support group for local people caring for someone with a terminal illness.

Our Carers group has been running for 10 years, however it was identified that more local carers needed support. So, as of this year the person you care for does not have to be receiving care from us. No matter where they receive care or support, carers of those with a terminal illness are welcome to our group.

Running once a month, the group covers a range of topics delivered by professionals to provide practical advice, explore the emotional impact of illness, offer information on support services and help you look after yourself too. If Caring for Carers can help you, you can call our team on 01642 811064 or check our website for further details and sessions planned for this year.

“I realised I wasn’t on my own”

Claire White shares her experience of attending the Carers Group with her Dad, Colin.

“Myself and my Dad came to the carers group around two years ago after my Mam, Kath, was diagnosed with bowel cancer. The group provided us with so much information and support, not just emotionally but physically too.

It was empowering to realise that other people knew what we were going through and how we were feeling. As a group we could share our experiences, it can be very lonely being a carer and even though my Dad was going through the same, it was comforting to know I wasn’t on my own.

If anyone is thinking about attending the group I would really encourage it, the hospice can support you in so many ways.”

“A chance to be acknowledged for being a carer”

Pauline Tweddle explains how the carers group provided her with a chance to receive acknowledgement as a carer for her husband, Ron.

“Being a carer is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do, you get no training when you’re in the position of being a carer but the carers group supports you so much. The information is invaluable and they help to direct you to other places and services that can help too.

It was nice to go to the group and to be acknowledged as a carer, until you’re in the position of being a carer you don’t know how you’re going to cope. The group makes you realise you’re doing your best and helps you to meet other carers and you can support each other.

I understand that people may feel apprehensive about going to the carers group but I would say to give it a go, even if it’s just for half an hour to have a cuppa, you’ll benefit so much.”

For more information about our Caring for Carers group please click here