Project

Our team of 13 Community Nurse Specialists care for patients in their own homes. Due to our rural area, our nurses can travel 60 miles in one direction to visit a patient, they are a great help and source of support to patients carers and families.

What does your charity/project do?

North Devon Hospice provides free end of life care 24/7 to individuals and families faced with the impact of a life limiting illness. We have a multi-disciplinary team consisting of a consultant, doctors, nurses, social workers, therapists and a chaplain representing all faiths and none. In addition to our bedded unit, community nursing enables people to receive end of life care in their own homes. We also have day hospice for patients, carers and families.

How does your charity/project support the local community?

Specialist community nursing supports local people living with a life limiting illness to maintain their independence and remain at home. The team have a wide pharmacological knowledge, but their support ranges from supporting a patient medically, but also emotionally and offering welfare guidance too. This support can reduce feelings of isolation and alienation people may feel from their community.

What do you plan to use the CommunityForce award for?

This award will be ploughed back into our North Devon community through the provision of specialist palliative care for people facing the impact of a life limiting illness and support for their families in their own North Devon homes. It will enable us to look to the future and expand our care to reach more people in need. For the voting process, we hope to rally the spirit of North Devonians to "Back our Bid.