Hospice care brings together a wide range of professionals. For Sarah and Naga, Spiritual Support Coordinators (pictured), it means being there in whatever way someone needs – helping them stay connected to what matters most to patients and those close to them throughout Hastings and Rother.
Describe your typical day:
“Each day is shaped by the needs of patients, and their networks. While we and volunteers spend time with people on the In-Patient Unit, we also speak to people over the phone and often make home visits.
“We create space for people to talk openly, helping them talk through questions, joys, fears, and frustrations. We often give practical support too, facilitating rituals, helping plan funerals, enabling blessings and weddings, or leading mindfulness and meditation sessions. We also work closely with local faith leaders, to help ensure each person’s care respects their beliefs, if that’s important to them.”
What’s it like to be a Spiritual Support Coordinator working in a hospice?
“Our role is to listen and be present. We often describe it as gently walking alongside someone at a time that can be uncertain. Spiritual support is all about what matters to someone. It’s exploring what gives them strength, hope, or meaning. For some, that’s rooted in religious faith; for others, it may be found in family connections, nature, creativity, or simply time spent reflecting. Being welcomed into someone’s life is a privilege. To hear their stories, struggles and goals, and to offer support, with trust, respect and kindness is something we really value.”
