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O-4 Reaching those who would not access hospice care in the community – university
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  1. Tracy Tuffs
  1. St Barnabas Hospice, Lincoln, UK

Abstract

Background Having developed the service in the prison we decided to look at other services in Lincolnshire and who they are supporting to be able to identify any other groups of people who do not engage with hospice care or bereavement support.

Aim To develop a service supporting teenagers who have been affected by bereavement. We know that this is a group where there is little support available due to scoping the availability of services in the county and the stigma of talking about bereavement and feelings which still remains which we identified through our scoping conversations.

Methods We had conversations with local University and colleges about how they support students through bereavement and the impact this can have on their education. This identified a lack of support other than some pastoral care with mentors in the school setting.

Results We now have a bereavement counsellor based in the local University, and two colleges around the county. We have had very positive feedback about the impact the service has had on the wellbeing of the students. The services now have a waiting list for students requesting support.

Conclusion The evidence in the growth of the service highlights the need to be supporting people more in the community rather than expecting them to reach out to us for support. This raises the profile of hospice care and the services which can be offered.

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