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"We were treated as individuals"
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Everyone - no matter who they are, where they are or why they are ill - has the right to high-quality care and support at the end of life. But we know that many people are still not able to access the help and support they need in their final days.
When Steven’s husband, Peter, was admitted to hospital with stage three renal cancer, they felt self-conscious about being on a male ward.
“We were going through this traumatic journey, and we didn’t have the privacy for me to give him a hug," said Steven. "We probably could have done it, but I didn't feel comfortable about it in any shape or form.”
Thankfully, once they were at St Catherine's Hospice in Lancashire, they as though they were able to focus on Peter's care as he reached the end of his life.
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"It felt like it didn't matter if we were gay, straight or anything else, we were treated as individuals, as a couple regardless of our gender."
Steven
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June is Pride Month - and we are highlighting the importance of a fully embedded culture of inclusivity in end of life care, regardless of gender, sexuality, race, religion, age or background.
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Sharing real stories, like Peter and Steven's, shows why it is so important to talk about death, dying and bereavement, and to make sure that everyone is able to live well until the end. We are committed to hearing and responding to the voices of people across the UK.
And that's where you come in. We need you to help us build a clearer picture of what is happening for people and families at the end of life.
What have your experiences been like? Was the right care and support in place for you and your family?
We are listening. Share your story with us by emailing info@hospiceuk.org.
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We are here to help
It's not always easy to know how to talk about dying. We have resources and information to help you help others. From leaflets to conversation starters - use them in your organisation, with patients, or simply when chatting with friends and family.
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