Specialist Palliative Care Nurses In The Community

Where can you turn to, if you or someone you care for has a life-threatening illness?

Who has the time to listen to your fears and the knowledge to give sound advice and help about the questions you may have?

Our specialist palliative care community nurses are up to date with the latest treatments and medication. They know their way around the system and what's available locally and nationally. They have time for you.

The team team works closely with GPs, hospital doctors, district nurses and many others to help to ensure patients get the best care from the wide range of services available. Anyone affected by cancer can ask to see a nurse.

Our nurses are fully qualified. They are experienced and skilled in controlling the unpleasant symptoms of cancer and its treatment. They keep abreast of developments and understand that you are an individual whose views and wishes are paramount. They know about the myriad emotions that cancer brings to patients and their loved ones and can help people to come to terms with situation.

Most patients like to see their nurse at home initially. They feel more comfortable there, more in charge of the situation, so find it easier to talk about their concerns and fears. Patients may first meet their nurse when in Dorset County Hospital in Dorchester, then continue to see one of our community nurses when they get home.

How often you meet your nurse and whether or not other services may be helpful to you is mutually agreed. When things are under control, you may be asked to see your nurse at her or his office, to save time and travel costs, or you may be discharged in the knowledge that should you need us again you can just get in touch.

Do you know of someone who may benefit from our services?
Referral couldn't be easier. Self-referral is encouraged.

Patients, their families, or friends can just pick up the phone and contact us direct. Other routes are through GP's, District Nurses, or any other health care professional.

Once a referral is received, one of our nurses will call to make an assessment of your individual needs. Arrangements can then be made for attendance at the appropriate hospice.

For an informal discussion please contact the Community Lead Nurse on 01305 269898