Hospice care "not just last days of life anymore"

In 1967 Dame Cecily Saunders, heard here describing the principles of hospice care, pioneered the hospice movement in the UK.

Hospice care has changed greatly since then and is no longer just about end of life care but also helping those with chronic illness or recovering from surgery.

Hospices might help with the bed crisis in our hospitals as the services are brought by carers into people's homes, care homes and hospitals.

Justin visited the Hospice of St Francis in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire to speak to director Dr Ros Taylor as well as volunteers and patients including Amanda who is recovering from breast cancer:

“If I want to do a bit of tai chi and have fun and relax, if I want a massage because my shoulder is aching after surgery or to be honest if I just want to cry and not do it in front of my family and be reassured that everything will be alright, I can do that here".