Counselling for families and carers

We offer a free counselling service to patients and the people important to them, including chosen and biological family members and carers.

Our counsellors aim to provide support for those experiencing difficult emotions associated with having, or caring for someone who has, an illness which cannot be cured. 

We provide a safe, confidential place to talk, and your concerns will be heard in a non-judgmental, caring and respectful way. We offer the opportunity to engage in face-to-face and virtual support over the telephone or video call. We have also introduced walk and talk counselling sessions. 

St Richard’s counsellors follow relevant governing body guidelines. As part of our team we have volunteer counsellors and student counsellors working towards qualification. We receive on-going training and supervision. 

We receive referrals from healthcare professionals, or you can self-refer by calling the Family Support and Bereavement Referral Line Monday to Thursday, 10am to 2pm, via the main hospice number 01905 763963. 

When the phone line is closed, referrals can be made online.

Safia speaks to a person around a coffee table at the hospice.
support services social work
The entrance walkway into St Richard's Hospice pictured on a bright, sunny day. The walkway is constructed of wooden posts, with large sheets of glass in between.
Remember a loved one
A person stands in their front doorway with a hospice Clinical Nurse Specialist. The nurse is wearing a navy blazer and blue patterned nurses' shirt. The other person is standing their doorway wearing a dress and pale yellow cardigan. They are both smiling and warmly shaking hands.
Living Well services therapeutic day