Today, Jackie, from Southend, has returned home after a two-week stay at Fair Havens, the adult hospice for Southend, Castle Point and Rochford, after receiving symptom management and respite care. Jackie wanted to share her experience to help change the misconceptions and highlight why we can’t leave hospice care to chance. 

Jackie was initially reluctant to go to Fair Havens, believing hospices were only for people receiving end-of-life care, but her view has now completely changed. 

She said, “Coming to stay at Fair Havens has made a huge difference in how I am feeling. Through symptom management they have got my pain under control and made sure I am on the right medications going forward. Although I am looking forward to my own home, I am going to miss all of the Care Team.” 

Beyond symptom management, the Care Team at Fair Havens has helped Jackie create special memories as she celebrated her birthday.  

Jackie said, “Whilst I was out, they put up all of these decorations and even brought me flowers. I felt very loved and welcomed. It was brilliant – a hospice is not what you think it is. They support people in so many different ways and I don’t think I have ever laughed as much as I have being here.” 

“I have been spoiled, waited on and have loved every minute of being here. Everyone here is so lovely, I have not come across one bad person and nothing is too much trouble for anyone here.” 

Jackie recently spent five weeks in hospital while doctors tried to get her pain under control. She was determined not to go back, so was referred to Fair Havens. But without Fair Havens and its support from the local community she may not have had a choice. 

Havens Hospices is sharing Jackie’s story this Hospice Care Week to highlight the importance of hospice care when facing an incurable diagnosis. People may be used to hearing the phrase ‘there’s nothing more we can do’. But Havens Hospices believe there is almost always more they can do — giving people like Jackie more quality time with the people who matter to them, more opportunities to make the most of life, and more good memories to cherish. 

Hospice care should not be something people have to be lucky enough to access. Everyone deserves expert, compassionate care, with comfort, choice and dignity, whenever they need it but Havens Hospices can only do this with the support of its local community.  

Just £31 could pay for an hour of expert care at Fair Havens or Little Havens — helping them to be there for the next family who needs it by donating today. 

To make a donation please visit havenshospices.org.uk/donate  

*Havens Hospices has changed Jackie’s name to protect her privacy, but her words and story are her own. 

Published on 7th October 2026