St Kentigern Hospice in St Asaph is highlighting the vital role hospice care plays in the community during Hospice Care Week (Oct 5-11), supporting people to stay connected, confident and in control while living with terminal illness.
St Kentigern’s Men’s Group is one example of this impact showing how hospice care can reduce isolation, build confidence and help people live well with terminal illness. Designed specifically for men who often struggle to seek support, the programme offers practical activities, peer connection and space to talk openly about illness, fear and identity.
John, who lives with pulmonary fibrosis and heart failure, says joining the group has been an “eye opener” and a reminder that he is not alone. Hearing the word hospice initially made him fear the worst, but being part of the group has changed that completely. Talking together, he says, “lightens your mood” and helps lessen the fear that often comes with a terminal diagnosis.
The group offers space to talk about anything, from how people are feeling to memories, music and the moments that matter.
The men support each other through conversations they may not feel able to have at home.
“If you need to talk about anything personal, you can discuss it here with the lads,” John said. “We’re on the same journey and support each other. Nobody judges.”
That’s why St Kentigern Hospice is standing behind the theme of Hospice Care Week — don’t leave hospice care to chance — because support services like this are essential and must be protected through fair and stable funding.
Margaret Hollings, Chief Executive of St Kentigern Hospice, said: “John’s story shows exactly why hospice care matters. Our Men’s Group gives people space to talk openly, feel understood and find strength in each other, and that support simply wouldn’t exist without the hospice.
“We see every day how community‑based hospice care helps people live well for as long as possible. But this care cannot be left to chance. We need fair and sustainable funding so we can continue to be there for everyone who needs us.”
Matt Brindley, Policy and Advocacy Manager for Wales at Hospice UK, said: “Every story shared this week shows the extraordinary value and impact of hospice care in Wales.
“Everyone deserves high‑quality hospice care, whoever they are and wherever they live, and compassionate care in the community is at the heart of everything we do.
“Welsh hospices support individuals and their families with expert palliative and end‑of‑life care, financial and emotional support, complementary therapies, bereavement care and vital respite for families of children with a life‑limiting illness. Increasing demand and rising costs are putting this care at risk.
“We cannot leave something this important to chance. Wales needs fair and stable funding for hospice care now.”
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