My Occupational Therapy Placement at Saint Francis Hospice

William Humphreys is in the second year of his Bsc Occupational Therapy Apprenticeship with London South Bank University. He is currently on a placement at Saint Francis Hospice and here he gives an insight into his experience so far. 

I chose Saint Francis Hospice for my occupational therapy placement because my university places a strong emphasis on understanding and delivering person-centred care. I wanted a placement where I could truly see this in action. Although I initially knew only a small amount about hospice care, a university lecture on palliative care helped me realise that a hospice would be the ideal place to experience what true person-centred care really looks like. After researching Saint Francis Hospice and seeing its strong presence in the community, I felt it would be the best place to begin my placement journey. From the outset, I was met with a warm, welcoming response that made me feel genuinely valued as a student. 

From my first day, the environment at Saint Francis Hospice exceeded everything I expected. I had been told it was a “nice” place to work, but that description doesn’t come close to capturing what it is really like. I have never experienced a setting where every single person, across every profession, is so kind, supportive and welcoming. Everyone took the time to ask how I was feeling and ensured I felt comfortable and included. I was made to feel as though I had been part of the team for years, which gave me the confidence to learn, ask questions, and fully immerse myself in the experience.

As this placement came early in my training, a key focus was on learning through experience. I was given many opportunities to shadow professionals across the hospice, including physiotherapists, complementary therapists, hospice at home nurses, clinical nurse specialists, the Family and Individual Support service and the fundraising team. This helped me understand how every role contributes to the holistic care of individuals and their loved ones. 

Alongside this, I spent significant time working directly with individuals under the care of Saint Francis Hospice with my occupational therapy supervisor, who was an incredible mentor. She supported me to gradually take on responsibility at a pace that felt right, while also encouraging me to challenge myself. This included completing initial assessments, screening referrals, leading home visits, providing equipment and documenting the full occupational therapy process.

I was supported to use myself therapeutically (this means the ability to use interpersonal skills as a method of enhancing care for individuals by making them feel comfortable and cared for) and, with guidance, I was able to lead individuals through their journey with the occupational therapy team. 

Through this experience, I learned just how important the role of occupational therapy is in a hospice setting.

Occupational therapists have a huge responsibility in ensuring individuals are as comfortable, safe and independent as possible, whether they are on the ward or in the community. Small changes, the right equipment or clear education can make a significant difference to someone’s quality of life, as well as to their lovedones. Seeing this first-hand has reinforced how meaningful our role can be. 

The most rewarding part of my placement has been seeing the real impact we can have on people’s lives at a time when they need it most. Sometimes it is something small, listening, offering reassurance, or providing a simple piece of equipment, but the difference this can make is enormous. Seeing someone achieve something they thought they might not be able to do again or knowing that someone is safer and more comfortable because of our input, is incredibly powerful. 

There have also been challenges. Supporting individuals and loved ones at such a personal and emotional time can be difficult, particularly knowing that many people are living with conditions that cannot be cured. There were moments that were emotionally taxing, but the support I received from the entire hospice team was exceptional. Being able to talk openly with others and reflect on these experiences helped me to understand that I was not alone and reminded me of the positive impact Saint Francis Hospice has on the lives of the people it cares for. 

Overall, this placement has shaped my understanding of what it truly means to deliver person-centred care. Everything at Saint Francis Hospice focuses on what matters most to the individual and how they want to live their life. This experience has strengthened my confidence, helped me grow as a future occupational therapist, and shown me the kind of practitioner I aspire to be.