WHEN TIME IS SHORT, MAKE IT MATTER WITH ST PETER’S HOSPICE

St Peter’s Hospice has launched a major new fundraising campaign. The ‘44 Days’
campaign reflects the average amount of time patients spend under their care and highlights the difference hospice support can make when time is short.

At St Peter’s Hospice, they know they can’t stop time. But they can fill final days with light. By managing pain, symptoms and the day-to-day admin that comes with complex medical needs, Hospice nurses allow people with serious illnesses to focus on living during their last days.

The campaign is asking people to donate vital funds towards hospice care, enabling patients to do what really matters to them at the end of their life.

Image provided by St Peter’s Hospice

Susan Hamilton, Chief Executive at St Peter’s Hospice, said: “On average, people are
referred to us just 44 days before they die. Some are with us for less time, others for much longer, but what matters most is the quality of that time. Our role is to help people live as well as possible, right until the end.

“Through expert palliative care, St Peter’s Hospice supports people when they need it the most by managing pain and symptoms, coordinating care, navigating complex medication and paperwork and offering emotional support to patients and families. By taking on the clinical and practical burden, hospice teams enable people to focus on living, whether that means sharing a meal, walking the dog, watching the sunrise or simply sitting quietly with someone they love.

“We can’t stop time, but we can make it matter. Hospice care isn’t just about dying, it’s about helping people live fully in the days they have left, surrounded by care, kindness and compassion.”

There is strong evidence that hospice care improves quality of life, reduces pain, supports emotional wellbeing and prevents unnecessary hospital admissions. Yet despite this, St Peter’s Hospice currently reaches only around one third of the people in the local community who could benefit from their support.

One supporter who knows just how valuable time with the Hospice is is Darren Spicer, St Peter’s Hospice Finance Director, whose wife Jane was cared for by the charity. He said: “I really remember a sense of time slowing down, the days felt longer in a good way. It was quite ironic I think that time should slow down when time was running out – St Peter’s gave us this for which I am so grateful.”

Image provided by St Peter’s Hospice

Susan continued: “Our vision is that no one should face the end of their life without the care and support they need. With the help of this campaign, we can bring light into people’s darkest days and give families the precious gift of time well spent.”

St Peter’s Hospice is Bristol’s only adult hospice and provides care within the unit at Brentry, in people’s own homes and out in the community. The charity has expressed the growing need for funds to enable them to continue with day-to-day care services as demand grows.

To support the campaign and donate, visit 44 Days – St Peter’s Hospice

Image provided by St Peter’ Hospice