FAQ

Palliative care recognises the special needs of people living with life-limiting disease and this care focuses on comfort and quality of life while promoting dignity and independence as far as possible. Further details are available on the World Health Organization website.

Salisbury Hospice Charity funds more than 60% of the hospice’s costs (around £1.5 million per year). The rest of the funds are provided by the Wilshire Clinical Commissioning Group (NHS Wiltshire), which provides health services across the county.

There are currently ten beds in our purpose-built facility, providing a relaxed and tranquil place for our patients, and the privacy and care that they need at a difficult time.

You need to be referred by your GP. Many people believe that the hospice only cares for patients with cancer, but we also look after patients with other long-term conditions such as motor neurone disease, heart failure and multiple sclerosis.

Salisbury Hospice only provides care for adults.

Hospice services are provided free of charge to patients and their families.

The service covers a broad area around Salisbury, from Ringwood (in the south) to Upavon (in the north), and from Bramshaw (in the east) to Mere (in the west).

We welcome volunteers at the hospice and also help with charity events. Volunteers help out with everything from organising events and fundraising to gardening at the hospice and chatting with patients. Please get in contact with us to find out more.

No. Our community palliative care nurses are not funded by Macmillan – contrary to what many people think. They are employed and paid for by Salisbury Hospice.

We currently have 15 specially trained bereavement support volunteers, who visit people in their homes and also offer support by phone and in groups.

Please contact the hospice if you would be interested in working as a volunteer.

Our day centre is open to inpatients and those receiving hospice care in the community. This gives patients the chance to share mutual support and take part in fun, creative and relaxing activities. Carers’ days are held once a month.

There is also a wildlife garden for patients and their families and carers to enjoy.

The hospice is separate, but located close to the main hospital. Our Palliative Care team supports patients within the main hospital building.

The hospice is only partially funded by the NHS – more than 60% of the funding is raised by Salisbury Hospice Charity.

Our family support team works closely with patients and their families, providing a range of emotional, psychological and practical support. Please take a look at our education and support page for further details.