Good Care Week: Get to Know Emma Fitzpatrick-Burke

The unique nature of hospice care

For Emma, one of the things that makes hospice care so special is the environment itself.

"The atmosphere, the calmness and the time we have with patients make a huge difference," she says.

Unlike many healthcare settings, the inpatient team is able to spend more time getting to know patients and understanding what matters most to them.

"We have the privilege of being able to individualise care. One size doesn't fit all, and we can tailor support to people's needs, beliefs, culture and personal wishes."

Going above and beyond

The inpatient team is dedicated to making meaningful moments happen for patients and families.

Sometimes that means helping someone spend time outdoors enjoying the sunshine. Other times it involves arranging a special visit from a beloved pet—or even a horse.

"It can be something as simple as helping someone sit outside and feel the sun on their face," Emma says. "Or it can be organising for a dog or horse to come and visit. It's about finding out what's important to that person."

These moments often become lasting memories for patients and their loved ones.

Supporting the whole family

Providing care for families is a vital part of hospice care, and Emma believes communication, compassion and understanding are key."

Our staff receive additional communication training because those conversations are so important," she explains.

"We support people through care, compassion and communication, helping families navigate an incredibly difficult time."

The inpatient team works closely with colleagues across the Hospice, including doctors, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, discharge nurses and pastoral care teams.

"Working together allows us to provide holistic care rather than focusing on just one aspect of a person's needs."

A team that cares for each other

Supporting patients and families through end-of-life care can be emotionally demanding, which is why staff wellbeing is so important.

"The team supports each other incredibly well," Emma says.

Alongside day-to-day support from colleagues, staff have access to reflective supervision, mental health support and debrief sessions following particularly difficult experiences.

"We make time to reflect on how situations have affected us. We're all human, and it's okay for this work to affect us emotionally."

Proud of the people around her

When asked what makes her most proud, Emma doesn't hesitate.

"It's the level of commitment from the team and how caring and compassionate they are," she says. "The amount of time and energy they're willing to give is incredible."

One of the biggest surprises after joining Thames Hospice was the atmosphere created by staff and volunteers alike.

"How happy it is here, really," she says.

A message for Good Care Week

During Good Care Week, Emma hopes colleagues across the Hospice take a moment to recognise the difference they make every day.

"I'd like people to remember what a great job they're doing and how amazing they all are," she says.

"This environment feels normal to us because it's what we do every day, but it isn't a normal environment. Keeping it a happy, caring and supportive place for patients and families is so important."

For Emma, hospice care is about helping people through one of the most difficult times they will ever face.

"We help support and guide people through what is often the most challenging part of their lives," she says.

"And that's a privilege."