Background Following COVID-19 and repeated lockdowns, people’s anxiety, fear and isolation levels were heightened worldwide. We started providing weekly meditations via Zoom to help alleviate these concerns for patients and carers, proving popular and were quickly in high demand. After resuming face-to-face interventions, we realised that some were still very wary and reluctant to mix with people, whilst others couldn’t wait to start mingling again. This mixed demand led to the development of the Hybrid Meditation Group, now an integral part of our Wellbeing Services which enables attendees to participate from home if preferred, or if unable to attend as an outpatient in person.

Aims Develop an inclusive group offering a weekly guided meditation, bringing a sense of calm and balance. Supporting attendees in making meaningful connections following periods of uncertainty and isolation. Introducing attendees to the use of therapeutic music and self-care affirmations to support their meditation practice and own wellbeing. Reaching a wider audience through the hybrid model.

Method

• Offer a hybrid Zoom and face–to–face rolling group run in six–week blocks.

• Advertised via our quarterly mailings, offered during initial assessment and via internal referral pathway.

• Each meditation grows in intensity over the six weeks.

• Encouraging daily meditation through the recordings on the hospice website.

Results 430 total attendees during 2023–2024. 158 via Zoom. 272 via face-to-face. This is a 275% increase on the previous year. 91% Completely Agree – ‘I have learnt how to improve my wellbeing and self-care through attending the Meditation group.’

Conclusion Over a third of attendees choose to Zoom, showing there is a clear need for this type of support direct to patients. This tremendous growth shows the need to feel connected through these meditations, benefits include reducing isolation and anxiety levels.