Saint Francis Hospice celebrates 42 years of caring in the community

On 23 July, Saint Francis Hospice celebrates 42 years of providing compassionate care and support to local people and their loved ones. 

For more than four decades, we've been there for people through some of life's most difficult moments. Today, thanks to the dedication of our staff, volunteers, partners and supporters, we're able to provide compassionate specialist hospice care to more people than ever before.  

Over the past 12 months, we have cared for 2,945 people across our services – a 30% increase on the previous year, significantly exceeding our target for growth while maintaining the high standards recognised by our Outstanding CQC rating. 

This year also saw a substantial increase in timely access to care. Referrals to our services rose by 11%, while fewer people died before receiving support – an important indicator that more people are accessing hospice care earlier, when it can make the greatest difference. 

Across our services, the impact of our care can be seen in every number: 

• 2,945 people received support from Saint Francis Hospice, both at the hospice and in their homes. 

• 285 people were admitted to our ward, with an average stay of 11 days, receiving specialist care, comfort and support. 

• 6,264 Hospice at Home visits were delivered by our nursing teams to 807 people, helping more individuals receive care in the place that's right for them without needing to access emergency services. 

• 4,462 bereavement counselling sessions were provided to 964 adults and 107 children, helping families navigate grief and loss. 

• 743 people received pastoral care support, addressing emotional, spiritual and practical needs alongside their clinical care. 

Alongside expanding access to care, we completed our £2 million ward redevelopment, creating modern, welcoming spaces that provide comfort, dignity and specialist care when it matters most. We also continued to strengthen our Enhanced Hospice at Home service and broaden support through initiatives such as our bereavement services and OrangeLine helpline. 

We're also working to improve access to hospice care across our region. Through strengthened community engagement in Barking & Dagenham, expanding our presence in Redbridge and embedding a place-based approach to care, we've built stronger relationships with local organisations and healthcare partners. This has helped raise awareness of our services, improve collaboration and break down barriers to accessing hospice care. 

None of this would be possible without the incredible support of our community who supported Saint Francis Hospice in many ways; by raising funds in their local communities, participating in hospice events, playing our lottery and volunteering.

Grazina Berry, Chief Executive of Saint Francis Hospice, said: 

"As we celebrate 42 years of caring for our community, I'm incredibly proud of everything our staff, volunteers and supporters have achieved together. Over the past year we've responded to increasing demand for our services while continuing to provide outstanding, compassionate care. 

"The fact that we supported nearly 3,000 people this year, helping more people access care earlier and in the place that is right for them, is a testament to the dedication of our teams and the generosity of our community. 

"Thanks to that generosity, we have continued to invest in our services, raising more than £5 million through fundraising and generating almost £3 million through our retail operations. This support enables us to reach more people when they need us most. At the same time, we know the challenges facing hospices remain significant, we keep applying the pressure on the government for more sustainable funding and remain committed to ensuring the hospice remains financially secure so we can continue to be there for future generations." 

As we celebrate our 42nd birthday, we're proud of what we've achieved together and grateful to everyone who has been part of our journey. Together, we're helping more people live well, right to the end of life, and ensuring compassionate hospice care remains available for everyone who needs it.