STAFF from local care homes have become the second cohort of graduates of a programme developed by Prospect Hospice to equip them to provide better care for patients at the end of their lives.

This week, staff and managers from care homes across Swindon and north Wiltshire gathered at the hospice in Wroughton to receive certificates and the signed passport document, proving that they have undergone an education programme in end-of-life care.

The scheme has been developed by Prospect Hospice to equip staff in local care homes to use newly-gained skills in end-of-life care, based on the expertise of experienced hospice staff.

Through completing the scheme, the seven graduates now have evidenced end-of-life care skills that will remain with them through their care home careers.

Angela Rogers, matron at Park View Care Home in Blunsdon, said: “I feel very strongly that taking part in the Passport Programme means that some of my staff will now feel much more confident in the care that they provide for residents who are nearing the end of their lives.

"It also demonstrates very strongly that this is an area in which we believe we can make a difference, and make improvements to the excellent care that we already provide.”

Rachael Liddell, Education Facilitator at Prospect Hospice said: “It is a real thrill for us to see this cohort achieve their Passports, because we believe it enables more people to access the end-of-life care that should be available to everyone.

"Working in partnership with care homes in this way equips people who work in them to provide care that is shaped and influenced by the expertise and experience of Prospect Hospice’s professional staff, and we believe that has to be a very positive thing for our community.”

Care home staff interested in taking part in the Prospect Hospice Passport Programme should contact Kate Whittingham on 01793 813355 or email education@prospect-hospice.net .