Hospice in the Weald for Children: Caring for Ronit and Joseph

Hospice in the Weald is known for the outstanding care it provides terminally ill adults and their loved ones. The Hospice has reliably offered this across the west Kent and East Sussex area for more than 40 years and, in January, extended this to include care for children and young people.

More than 40 children, parents and siblings are now receiving support from the Hospice’s specialist team six months later. This includes home visits and emotional support from a family therapist. Made up of registered children’s nurses, children’s support workers and volunteers, the team deliver care throughout the week.

This summer sees the Hospice’s children’s care offering reach its half-year point, and we feel lucky to have worked with many amazing children and families already. In this article, we take a look at the stories of 10-year-old Ronit Gurung and 14-year-old Joseph Williams who are both supported by the Hospice.

“Ronit lights up a room, he melts our hearts. We make sure he has fun with arts and crafts, songs and books. ‘Heads, shoulders knees and toes’ is a favourite! Ronit recognises us and gets excited when he sees us. It takes time to get to know each child, and we are building a lovely bond,” said Fiona Ashmore, Lead Children’s Nurse.

“One of the team also comes on hospital visits and keeps Joseph calm and entertained on the journey. It’s a great help,” Joseph’s mum, Faye said.