Palliative Care Expert Hails East Cheshire Hospice as Inspirational Changemaker
A prominent palliative care expert has described the work of East Cheshire Hospice as truly inspirational. Dr Kathryn Mannix addressed over 360 guests at The King's School in Macclesfield, emphasizing that the charity stands at the forefront of end-of-life care provision.
Expertise and Storytelling in Sensitive Conversations
Dr Mannix, a former consultant in hospices, hospitals, and patient homes who transitioned to become a best-selling author and speaker, shared insights from her extensive medical experience. Her books, With The End in Mind and Listen, utilize storytelling techniques to assist families in navigating difficult conversations about dying.
"We're not very good with the 'D word' - dying, death and dead," Dr Mannix remarked. "But we are useless with the 'L word', yet it's about how we are loving with each other that genuinely makes the difference."
Exemplary Hospice Services and Community Impact
She highlighted a survey indicating that nearly one in five people dying in UK hospitals had previously discussed end-of-life plans, leaving 80 percent unprepared. In contrast, East Cheshire Hospice's approach is exemplary.
The hospice operates 15 inpatient beds and extends its specialist expertise into the community through initiatives like Hospice @Home, which supported 470 individuals in their own residences over the past year. "That's wonderful," Dr Mannix stated.
Changemakers in Palliative Care Development
"They are changemakers here at East Cheshire Hospice and more advanced than many other places," she affirmed. "The patient pathway is smooth as they move between different parts of care. The hospice is constantly helping the NHS to develop palliative care services. It's inspirational."
Personal Testimonies and Hospice Leadership
The emotive discussion was hosted by respected BBC broadcaster Nick Robinson, who shared a personal connection. His late father, Robbie, received care from the hospice, where Nick now serves as a patron. Nick recounted, "Dad thought the staff were lovely and warm. He loved the outdoors and his garden and felt the hospice gave him a sight of flowers and trees which made him feel good."
He added, "Mum couldn't cope at home and he felt comfortable at the hospice. He saw his latest grandchild, Harry, who was only two-weeks-old, and then felt he could go." Nick's sister, Dr Debbie Maxwell, is a hospice trustee.
Juliette White CBE, chair of the hospice trustees and the school's board of governors, noted in her welcome address that the hospice cares for approximately 1,750 patients and their families annually, underscoring its significant community role.
