Here are some of our most frequently asked questions about the care we offer. You can also find out much more about staying at and visiting our hospices and the services we provide in the Our Care section of this website. If there’s something we haven’t covered, please visit our Contact us page to get in touch.
Otherwise, please browse the Our Care FAQs below.
How do I get referred?
Referrals for a bed at our hospices are always through your GP or the key healthcare professionals involved in your care. We review each referral individually, working closely with our NHS colleagues to ensure continuity and coordination of care and the proper care for you.
Which hospice will I stay at?
St Julia’s Hospice is in the west of our county in Hayle, and Mount Edgcumbe Hospice is situated in mid-Cornwall on the outskirts of St Austell. Depending on bed availability, you may be admitted to either unit, but we always try to offer a bed that is convenient for you and your loved ones. Parking is free at both of our hospices.
Will I have an ensuite bathroom?
Most patient bedrooms are single, with an ensuite bathroom and television. At Mount Edgcumbe Hospice, we also have two two-bed wards with bathroom facilities nearby.
Can my family stay with me?
Yes of course. You can stay for as long as you like, either in the room with your relative or friend, or we have a relative’s bedroom with en-suite facilities where you can stay. This is especially useful if you have to travel from outside Cornwall.
What are the visiting times at the hospices?
We realise people have busy lives but also that they want to spend time with people who are with us so there are no specific visiting times. We do however have protected mealtimes between 12pm to 1pm and 5pm to 6pm to enable our patients to enjoy their meals free from interruptions. However if a family member wants to enjoy a meal with their relative, this can be facilitated.
Can I bring my pet with me?
Of course. Many of our staff and volunteers are animal lovers and enjoy visits from pets. We just ask that you talk to the nursing team before the visit, especially if the pet is unusual (a horse perhaps, or a bird in a cage). We also ask that dogs are kept on a lead and cats in a basket when you are in the public areas of the hospice.
Do you offer a Hospice at Home service?
We don’t currently offer a Hospice at Home service. However, our Community Services team offer a range of services including bereavement support options, support and information sessions, wellbeing workshops and outpatient clinic appointments with our Therapy team at locations closer to you. Head to our How we support you page to find out more.
Can I bring items from home for my hospice stay?
Yes of course you can – we want you to feel as comfortable as possible when you stay at our hospices, so if you want to bring in photographs, favourite cushions or blankets you’re more than welcome.
Can I have flowers in my room?
Yes – flowers in your room are most welcome and our ward volunteers will be happy to arrange them and look after them for you. We just ask you to be aware that some flowers have very strong scents which can be overpowering.
How can I keep in touch with my loved ones during my stay?
You are welcome to bring your own mobile phone and/or tablet – we have Guest WiFi that you can connect to – all we ask is that ringtones and conversations do not disturb others. If you don’t have your own, we have devices that you can borrow to stay in touch. Just ask a member of our team.
