Navigating the complexities of life-limiting illness is an incredibly demanding journey, and finding reliable, compassionate support for your loved ones is often the most important step you can take. In this guide, I share essential information about the services, referral processes, and bereavement support available through Havens Hospices to help you understand what to expect and how to access the care your family deserves. By clarifying these practical pathways, I hope to provide you with the confidence and clarity needed to manage these challenging moments with grace and informed support.
Understanding Havens Hospices and the care for incurable conditions
Havens Hospices is a registered charity (number 1022119) that provides specialist care free of charge to individuals and families living with incurable conditions across Essex. Their primary mission is to offer high-quality palliative care that focuses on comfort, dignity, and quality of life, ensuring that patients and their families are supported through every stage of their journey.
Specialist support from Little Havens and Fair Havens
The charity operates through several distinct arms to ensure age-appropriate and condition-specific support. Have you ever felt like you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders? In my experience, reaching out for external support early on is the most effective way to manage the load.
| Service Type | Primary Focus | Target Demographic |
|---|---|---|
| Fair Havens | Inpatient care & symptom management | Adults (18+) |
| Little Havens | Respite & end-of-life care | Babies, children, young people |
| The J’s | Home-based emotional & practical support | Young adults & families |
How to access the Wellbeing Team for family support
Referrals to Havens Hospices are a straightforward process that requires the consent of the patient or their parent or guardian. You can initiate this process by contacting the relevant clinical team, and referrals can be made directly by patients, carers, or healthcare professionals who have identified a need for specialist support.
- Discuss the need for palliative support with your GP or current consultant.
- Ensure the patient or guardian provides explicit consent for the referral.
- Contact the Havens Hospices team via telephone or their online portal.
- Await an assessment call to determine the most appropriate care level.
Referral pathways for children and young people
To start a referral, you can visit the official website or send an email inquiry to the digital team. For direct assistance, the general referral phone number is 01702 220 350, while the specific line for the care team at Little Havens is 01702 552 200. Please note that Fair Havens specifically accepts referrals for residents of Southend-on-Sea, Castle Point, or Rochford, and Little Havens caters to children and young people up to the age of 18.
Bereavement services in memory of a loved one
Comprehensive bereavement support is an integral part of the hospice philosophy, offering a safe space for families and carers to process loss. The charity provides free bereavement services for families and carers of patients previously cared for by Havens Hospices, which include one-to-one support, coffee and chat groups, and specialized sessions for children and young people, complemented by spiritual companionship.
Remember: Navigating the grief process is a unique journey for everyone – giving yourself permission to feel is the first step toward healing.
Lightwell Counselling and Wellbeing Team support
For those seeking professional counselling, Lightwell Counselling is a paid-for service available to any adult (18+) across Essex. You can reach them at 01702 339977 or via their website to arrange in-person sessions at their Southend-on-Sea offices, or to discuss online and telephone support options.
Helping us continue and how to join Team Havens
Your contribution, whether through time or financial support, directly enables the charity to continue providing free care to local families. Every donation is vital, and maintaining a healthy care plan for our community requires consistent resources, thanks to the generosity of our local community.
- Donate via post or phone.
- Sponsor a room at Little Havens to provide a comforting space for families.
- Volunteer your time to help in a local charity shop or at events like the 5k or 12.5k runs.
Opportunities to join our team
If you wish to volunteer, visit the Havens Hospices Volunteering Portal to view current vacancies and complete the “Apply to Volunteer” form. Please note that the minimum age for charity shop volunteers is 13, while all other hospice roles require volunteers to be at least 18. New volunteers are assigned a named Coordinator or Shop Manager for support and must undergo an induction process.
History of Havens Hospices charity facilities
Havens Hospices has evolved significantly since Fair Havens Hospice first opened on 13 June 1983 on Chalkwell Avenue, Westcliff-on-Sea. Over the decades, the charity expanded its footprint by introducing a Day Hospice in 1988, purchasing the adjacent building in 1990, and launching the Community Hospice service in 1992. Little Havens opened in 1998, and in 2020, we marked a major milestone with the opening of the new Fair Havens facility in Prittlewell—a project costing £17.2 million with 16 inpatient beds—alongside a brand-new children’s hospice facility in Thundersley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take on the iconic challenges to support the charity?
Yes, you can support the charity by participating in various events such as the London Marathon or local runs. These initiatives are a fantastic way to help us continue our mission while engaging with the community.
Are there opportunities for a silent disco upgrade at events?
Some of our fundraising events may feature unique entertainment options including a silent disco upgrade. Please check our events calendar to see which activities are currently planned for local families.
How does the charity support families like mine?
We provide a dedicated family support worker who assists with emotional and practical needs during difficult times. Our holistic approach ensures that caring for families like yours remains our top priority throughout the treatment process.
What is the significance of the Art Trail?
The Art Trail is a community-focused initiative that raises awareness and vital funds for our hospice services. It brings people who care together to celebrate creativity while supporting the ongoing needs of our patients.
Reaching out to the dedicated team at Havens Hospices provides the specialist guidance necessary to ensure your loved ones receive the highest standard of compassionate care. Always remember that asking for support early is a sign of strength that helps you navigate these challenging transitions with greater peace of mind.
