Background Living with an incurable illness can force people into poverty at a vulnerable time. A population health survey concluded that free or affordable local facilities/activities would help residents. The hospice secured funding from Hospice UK which enabled us to set up a community Hub.

Service’s Aims

• Free, accessible venue.

• Awareness of hospice services.

• Collaborate to change the narrative around death and dying.

• Help with the cost of living.

• Provide volunteering opportunities.

• Enable people with a life limiting diagnosis/their loved ones, to support each other and connect isolated and lonely people.

Method Featherstone residents engage less with hospice community services. A town in decline since the coal mining closures. The Hub, held at the library and accessible by public transport, provides practical help, advice and free refreshments for people experiencing: bereavement; a life limiting diagnosis; loneliness/isolation; caring responsibilities.

A lady explained ‘I couldn’t afford a taxi or refreshments at the Hospice garden centre Drop In, but ‘I enjoy attending this one’.

Key Results The average weekly group size is 20 attendees (equal numbers of men and women). Connections through the Hub have increased referrals to services, including engaging with a younger population (19 years and above). Some of the attendees have a learning disability. Friendships are made and future planning discussions along with signposting have taken place.

Collaboration Learning Disabilities Team and Wakefield Carers attended future planning training.

Stronger links with Millennium support, libraries and the Rugby club.

Conclusions The Hub enables conversations about death, dying and future planning in a non-threatening environment. Supporting the community through a ‘Drop In’ venue, is an effective way of engaging new people. The location at the library is welcoming, easily accessible and removes anxieties related to hospice services.