News and blog

It’s the little things that make a big, big difference to our patients

What makes a good day? A nice cup of tea in the morning? Sitting in a sunny garden in the afternoon? A chat with a friend in the evening? These are simple pleasures that all of us can relate to. But, when time is limited, these moments can be even more precious. Our Director of Hospices and Fundraising Holly explains why she and her colleagues need your help to make these things happen.

Sue Ryder pilots a new online video bereavement service

We are piloting a new online video bereavement service for Online Community members to give people in the various stages of grief additional help, counselling and support at a time that suits them.

St John's Hospice set to launch new Day Therapy service

A new service offering a range of therapies, support and care to local people with life-limiting conditions and their carers is being launched at St John’s Hospice.

Four inspiring dads we have known

With Father's Day just round the corner, our Senior Events Manager James remembers some awesome dads we have cared for at our Sue Ryder hospices – and celebrates their devoted daughters.

"My stepdaughter’s care inspired me to get back on my bike in my 80s"

A Gloucester-based Great-Grandad has a new hobby, got fit and is raising funds for our Leckhampton Court Hospice following the loss of his wife, after being inspired by the care she received from Sue Ryder and his stepdaughter, who is on staff.

Encouraging the gratitude reflex

Richard Littledale, whose wife Fiona passed away under Sue Ryder's care in November 2017, this week blogs about how fostering gratitude, and actively thanking those who helped you during dark times, is helping him through his grief. "Not everyone will feel either able or inclined to do it, but for me it has been therapeutic," he says.

The difference a cup of tea and a chat can make

Student Andy Bradshaw first arrived at our Wheatfields Hospice in Leeds to do research for his PhD. He found it so eye-opening – and surprisingly fun! – that the experience inspired him to remain as a volunteer. This is his story in his own words.

“By helping others, I am also helping myself”: what it’s like to be an Online Community Mentor

If someone you love is dying or has died, our online community is a place to share experiences, get things off your chest, ask questions and chat to people who understand. Online Community Mentors are ordinary users who volunteer to give Eleanor, our Community Manager, a hand in making sure that the site is a safe and supportive place for everyone.

Ten inspiring volunteers from across our care centres

The time, effort and skills of our 11,000 volunteers help make it possible for us to deliver 2.5 million hours of expert medical, practical and emotional support every year at Sue Ryder. Here, our Head of Volunteer Development and Engagement Tracey shines a light on ten amazing individuals who brighten the days of people in our hospices and neurological centres nationwide.

Creating a mindful new routine: in praise of washing up

"With the loss of your loved one comes the loss of the busy-ness that made up your carer’s role," writes Richard, whose wife Fiona passed away under our care in November 2017. "It is a busy-ness you cherished for it was an act of love. Without that, the day suddenly has more hours in it." How do you fill this time? Mindfully.