Future plans

Our financial resources have now reached a level that allows us to begin to plan an exciting new chapter in the Hospice story. Our aim has always been to establish a respite ‘in-care’ facility for patients who are terminally ill or whose care requirements change unexpectedly. We want to be there when the hospital or home carer runs out of options, by providing a sanctum of great love and care. We acknowledge that most patients prefer to die at home; our services will be on hand for when this is no longer practical. The in-care service will be housed at our existing property at Saron, and run in conjunction with the Day Care Centre. We plan to create 5 private bedrooms to the highest possible specification, some with adjoining overnight family facilities. We intend to receive referrals from both local health professionals and also the public, through their contact with Skanda Vale monastery. We do not expect or necessarily want this service to spring up overnight. We aim to grow the in-care facility organically, and in close partnership with the district’s health professionals. It is critical to us that we maintain complete operational control of the facility, however, and that our relationship to the public health sector is on equal footing, not as an overflow for government targets. Our service should complement, not replace existing regional healthcare provision. Skanda Vale Hospice is a professional organisation run on a voluntary basis. It is only through the love and dedication of our staff that our ethos can be brought to life in a daily context. Our track record proves the exciting and inspirational nature of what we do. We welcome the opportunity to expand, in partnership with the health authorities, in such a way that the wider community can benefit from our valuable service.