In response to calls to take action and exercise caution from public health authorities, the Sunshine Coast Hospice Society is making temporary changes to the way that service is delivered to vulnerable clients at the end of life and their loved ones.
The safety of clients, volunteers and staff is of utmost importance. Therefore, the Hospice Society will participate in the social distancing measures being recommended by health and governmental organizations. While in-person visits between clients and volunteers have been temporarily suspended, staff and volunteers will continue to be available in other ways whether clients are dealing with end of life or bereavement. Telephone and online visits will help to address clients’ concerns and alleviate feelings of isolation and anxiety. Where appropriate, in-person visits out of doors may be arranged, such as going for walks, where social distancing is achievable.
The hospice patient rooms at Shorncliffe will continue to be offered to palliative clients but without visits by Hospice Society volunteers.
Hospice Society staff will be working from home and will be available to receive referrals and perform telephone intakes and will continue to explore ways of reaching out and providing companionship virtually.
The annual Hike for Hospice fundraising event, originally scheduled for Sunday, May 3 at Mission Point Park, has been postponed. Sunday, Sept. 13 has been chosen as the new date. Plans for an exceptional event continue and an online auction is being prepared as a new feature. Sponsorship opportunities are still welcome and tax-deductible donations continue to be gratefully accepted. Details are on the Hospice Society website: www.coasthospice.com
Questions can be directed to acting executive director Elana Robinson at [email protected]
– Submitted by Donna Shugar
