Question 1

How do I set up a JustGiving page in aid of Weldmar?

Accepted Answer

It’s quick and easy to get a JustGiving page set up for your Weldmar Fundraiser! Log into, or create, your account on the JustGiving website and select ‘Start Fundraising’ on the top menu bar. When asked “What are you raising money for?”, select ‘A Charity’. Search for ‘Weldmar Hospicecare’. You can either select a pre-existing event we have created from the list (for example, our Overseas Trek), or if you are doing your own fundraising challenge or event select ‘Doing your own thing’ at the bottom of the page. Choose your fundraising page URL – this is the link you’ll... Learn more

Question 2

Do I need to be an existing Weldmar patient in order to be referred to Weldmar at Home?

Accepted Answer

Usually, patients that are seen at home by a member of the Weldmar at Home team will be known to us, most often having been referred earlier and seen at home by a Weldmar Community Nurse.  However, we are absolutely committed to ensuring that care can be provided in the home to anyone who has a wish to die in their familiar and comfortable surroundings, so a referral may come to us for patients who, for example, are about to leave hospital without a package of care being in place.

Question 3

Do you use ‘Macmillan nurses’?

Accepted Answer

No, we do not use Macmillan nurses. Macmillan is a very separate charity to Weldmar, and do not have community specialist palliative care nurses working in West Dorset.

Question 4

How can I be referred for complementary therapy?

Accepted Answer

You can be referred for Complementary Therapy by any member of the Weldmar team who supports you.

Question 5

How do I change my contact preferences with you?

Accepted Answer

We like to make it as straightforward as possible to change the way that we contact you as a supporter of Weldmar Hospicecare.  Please fill out this form if you would like to change how we contact you, or end communication. You can also read our privacy policy.

Question 6

How do I make a complaint?

Accepted Answer

All Weldmar staff are here to help you, and are pleased to receive any ideas, comments, or suggestions you may have for improving our services. We are also anxious to hear if you are unhappy about any aspect of our services so we can make improvements. When a matter is raised, we will try to deal with it promptly. If you would like to make a complaint, please read our complaints procedure.

Question 7

How long will I stay at the Inpatient Unit?

Accepted Answer

The average length of stay for patients admitted for symptom control is two weeks, however this is determined by individual need.

Question 8

I have items to donate to your charity shops – will you collect them?

Accepted Answer

Thank you for supporting Weldmar Hospicecare by donating items for our charity shops!  We really appreciate it. Our charity shops do not make collections or deliveries, but our larger outlets do collect larger items such as furniture free of charge in their surrounding areas – these are based in Weymouth, Dorchester (who will collect/deliver from across the west of Dorset), Blandford, and Shaftesbury. Our outlets will also deliver items, but there is a small charge for this service. If you would like to enquire about delivery or collection, please contact your nearest Weldmar Outlet.

Question 9

I would like to volunteer – what do I do?

Accepted Answer

Firstly, thank you! We couldn’t do what we do without the help and expertise of volunteers.  You might like to help out in one of our shops, on reception at our Inpatient Unit, at a fundraising event, or driving patients to appointments. You can find more about becoming part of Team Weldmar here, including the current vacancies we are looking to fill with volunteers. Even if you don’t see an opportunity there that suits you, there is a form to fill in to tell us more about what you would like to do, and we’ll be in touch.

Question 10

Is counselling confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes, what is said between you and your counsellor remains confidential with some exceptions such as you being at risk of harm.

Question 11

What care does Weldmar at Home provide?

Accepted Answer

The care provided by Weldmar at Home will vary from patient to patient, to fit in with their needs and requirements. Some people tell us that they value care overnight so that their family can rest. Others tell us that they would like a little bit of help during the day for example with washing, dressing or changing the bed sheets. We don’t do domestic chores such as housework or shopping, but can be there to be with the patient whilst other family members do those chores, if needed.

Question 12

What is the visitor policy at your Inpatient Unit?

Accepted Answer

Patients can welcome their close family and friends to visit them whilst they are staying at the Inpatient Unit.

Question 13

What items do you take in your charity shops and outlets – and what can I not donate?

Accepted Answer

Thank you for considering Weldmar Hospicecare as the charity to donate your items to. We welcome any donations of good quality items – there are only a few things we cannot take. If you would like to check whether we will accept certain items before bringing them in, please contact your nearest Weldmar charity shop or outlet, who will be more than happy to help. The whole area of recycling has changed for all charities. We can no longer dispose of any broken, damaged or unsaleable items. We no longer have anywhere to recycle these goods and, in fact, have... Learn more

Question 14

Will I have to go to the hospice for my last days?

Accepted Answer

If you are being seen by one of our Weldmar Community Nurse Specialists, they will be able to have conversations with you about where you wish to be cared for towards the end of life.

Question 15

How often will I be seen at home by my Weldmar Community Nurse?

Accepted Answer

Everyone’s needs are different. Following each consultation, your Weldmar Community Nurse will agree with you the date and time of the next visit.

Question 16

How can I raise money for Weldmar on Facebook?

Accepted Answer

Facebook fundraisers are a fantastic way to to fundraise, and best of all they’re very simple to set up! You must set up a Facebook fundraiser on your computer. On your computer, log in to Facebook. On the left, click fundraiser heart coin Fundraisers. Tip: If you can’t see Fundraisers on the left-hand side, then click See more. On the left-hand side, click Raise money. Click Charity. You can either: Scroll to find the charity you want to raise money for Type into the search bar to find the charity you want to raise money for Once you have selected... Learn more

Question 17

Why do I feel ‘abandoned’ by the hospital when they stopped seeing me and referred me to Weldmar?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes it's hard to accept that there is ‘no more hospital treatment’. However a referral to a Weldmar Community Nurse Specialist will give you chance to address some of these feelings.

Question 18

Can I refer myself and ask for a visit from one of your nurses?

Accepted Answer

We are not able to accept a self referral. You would need to talk to either your GP or health care professional involved in your care.

Question 19

Can Weldmar help me with posters and banners for my fundraising?

Accepted Answer

Yes we can! If you would like us to create a poster for you for your event, we can certainly do that. Please ensure you provide as much notice as you can, and all the information you would like included. TOP TIP: Whilst you want to include all of the key information about your event, it’s a good idea to keep the number of words as low as possible. Keep it concise and clear. To show that you are supporting Weldmar at your event, we can provide banners and flags, subject to availability. If you would like to find out... Learn more

Question 20

Are meals provided at Wellbeing Sessions?

Accepted Answer

Light refreshments will be available throughout the sessions. If you are attending a session at the Inpatient Unit, you may wish to take advantage of our Orangery Bistro where refreshments, hot and cold meals and light bites are available between the hours of 12noon and 2pm. You could pre order a meal to enjoy after your morning session or before your afternoon session. There is a varied menu to choose from, at very reasonable prices. Please order at reception.

Question 21

But many of my contacts have already been approached for donations by other fundraising campaigns – will they really want to donate to my cause?

Accepted Answer

Yes! They will not necessarily be donating for the cause itself, but simply because you have a personal connection with them and it is you who is asking! The cause is sometimes a secondary reason for donating. Perhaps they have asked you to support them in the past, and they will be happy to return the favour.

Question 22

Can Gift Aid be claimed on a donation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, as long as the donor is eligible and has completed a Gift Aid declaration with us. There will be a tick box on the donation form for those that wish to apply Gift Aid to it.

Question 23

Can I do a Street Collection for Weldmar Hospicecare?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can do street collections for Weldmar. However, there are strict guidelines set in place by The Fundraising Regulator which must be followed.

Question 24

Can I generate a QR code for my JustGiving page to use on posters etc?

Accepted Answer

Yes you can! Adding a QR code to your posters, leaflets etc, can enable people to quickly access your JustGiving page using the camera on their smartphone, which automatically picks up the link. We would recommend not using QR codes on social media or elsewhere digitally – people will usually be browsing on the device the would scan it from! To obtain a QR code: Set up your JustGiving page (guidance on how to do this is also in this set of common questions). View your page, and add ‘/qrcode’ to the end of the website address in your browser... Learn more

Question 25

Can I just turn up to a Wellbeing Session?

Accepted Answer

No, you can’t just turn up to a Wellbeing Session, as we need to ensure we have enough support staff to assist with the sessions. It is also important that we do not exceed the capacity of the space we use. With this in mind, we ask that you call to book into a session, if possible, with at least 24 hours’ notice on 01305 215206.

Question 26

Can I phone my contacts to ask them to donate?

Accepted Answer

Certainly – phone calls can be very powerful and are of course more personal.

Question 27

Can I see a counsellor/supporter with my loved one/significant other?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can see a counsellor with my loved one/significant other.

Question 28

Can I see my counsellor/supporter in person?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can meet in person in a room at the Inpatient Unit in Dorchester, or Trimar House in Weymouth.

Question 29

Can I smoke at the Inpatient Unit?

Accepted Answer

A designated smoking area is available at the Inpatient Unit site for patients only, who are able to use it safely and independently.

Question 30

Can I use cloakroom tickets for a raffle in advance of an event date?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately not, you can't use cloakroom tickets for a raffle in advanced of an event date.

Question 31

Can dogs come to the Summer Fete?

Accepted Answer

Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads. We will be providing some shaded areas and water for them.

Question 32

Can my partner attend a Wellbeing Session with me?

Accepted Answer

Attending our Wellbeing Support Sessions gives you an opportunity to have some time to yourself, to make new friends, and have experiences that are just for you. If you feel anxious about attending alone, you are welcome to bring your partner or carer with you for a coffee visit for your first session (where capacity allows), but after that, we encourage you to come alone, as it is a day specifically for you.

Question 33

Can my pet visit the Inpatient Unit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, pets are very welcome to visit you on the Inpatient Unit

Question 34

Can people also donate with cash, cheques, charity vouchers or bank transfer or is it only via the Charity Extra website?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can accept cash, cheques, charity vouchers and bank transfers from people. These are called ‘offline donations’ and you will need to contact one of the team (this must be done during the campaign itself – contact details found at the top of this document) in order to have them added to your page. For bank transfers, please contact the fundraising team. Cheques/vouchers should be addressed to ‘Weldmar Hospicecare’ and sent to the following address with a covering letter to state the donation is for the Making Every Moment Matter Campaign: Weldmar Hospicecare Fundraising Team Weldmar Offices, Hammick House... Learn more

Question 35

Can relatives stay overnight at the Inpatient Unit?

Accepted Answer

Marion’s Room We have one family room, Marion’s Room, which features a dining area, a large television and sofas, its own kitchen facilities, bathroom, and will allow family members to stay with loved ones in more comfort. It includes both a patient and visitor bed which can be connected together to create a double bed to allow for a couple and families to be even closer together if needed and the room also has a sofa bed so additional family members can stay too. Double doors lead out onto a patio, and access to the gardens outside our Orangery restaurant. Some... Learn more

Question 36

Can you help me with my mobility and accessing the toilet at a Wellbeing Session?

Accepted Answer

We can assist with your mobility, whether it be walking alongside you to provide support, or using a wheelchair to help you get around the building. We have plenty of support workers available to assist. In some sites, we have access to hoisting facilities too. An assessment would be carried out by your Weldmar Community Nurse prior to attending, to ensure we could safely meet your mobility needs.

Question 37

Do I need to do anything in order to set up my page?

Accepted Answer

No. Your page will be set up for you, so you do not need to do anything unless you want to add any personalisation – such as videos/pictures or any personal message/blurb about why this cause is important to you.

Question 38

Do I need to get undressed for complementary therapy?

Accepted Answer

Your dignity will be maintained at all times, however therapists are able to adapt or offer other therapies that allow you to remain dressed.

Question 39

Do I need to pay for the services of a physio or occupational therapist?

Accepted Answer

The services of a physio or occupational therapist, including equipment provision, are completely free of charge.

Question 40

Do you collect/deliver donations at Dorchester Clearance at Poundbury?

Accepted Answer

We do not accept or collect donations at this outlet. We do however deliver furniture within the postcodes of DT1/DT2/DT6/DT7/DT8. A small charge is made for this service payable when you buy your furniture. Our Dorchester Outlet, just round the corner on the Marabout Trading Estate, does collect and accept donations of items.

Question 41

Do you collect/deliver donations from your charity shops?

Accepted Answer

Thank you for supporting Weldmar Hospicecare by donating items for us to sell!  We really appreciate it. Our shops do not make collections or deliveries, but our larger outlets do collect larger items such as furniture free of charge in their surrounding areas – these are based in Weymouth, Dorchester (who will collect/deliver from across the west of Dorset), Blandford, and Shaftesbury. Our outlets will also deliver items, but there is a small charge for this service. If you would like to enquire about delivery or collection, please contact your nearest Weldmar Outlet.

Question 42

Do you collect/deliver donations from your outlet in Blandford?

Accepted Answer

We will come out and look at your items for sell, and if they are in good, clean, sellable condition with the correct fire labels on soft furnishings we will take the items away that day.

Question 43

Do you collect/deliver donations from your outlet in Shaftesbury?

Accepted Answer

We will collect furniture donations subject to inspection in Shaftesbury and our area covered extends to Sherborne, Tisbury, Mere, Zeals and Wincanton.

Question 44

Do you collect/deliver donations from your outlet on the Granby in Weymouth?

Accepted Answer

We can collect and deliver items from our outlet on the Granby in Weymouth.

Question 45

Do you collect/deliver donations from your outlet on the Marabout in Dorchester?

Accepted Answer

We collect items of furniture from DT1/DT2/Dt6/DT7/DT8.

Question 46

Do you work with my oncologist?

Accepted Answer

If you are still being seen by your oncologist, then our nurses do liaise with both them and your hospital clinical nurse specialist

Question 47

How can I access the service for input from a Physiotherapist or an Occupational Therapist?

Accepted Answer

You should talk to your Weldmar Community Nurse or GP about being referred to our team for an assessment.

Question 48

How can I promote my event online?

Accepted Answer

Facebook groups are a great way to promote your event online.

Question 49

How do I get in touch to arrange a counselling session?

Accepted Answer

You can contact Weldmar Hospicecare directly, via our Inpatient Unit reception.

Question 50

How do I prepare for writing or updating a Will?

Accepted Answer

Before visiting your solicitor, or making your Will online, it’s a good idea to prepare. Think about: What it is you own Who you want to remember in your Will The two people (executors) who will carry out the wishes in your Will How you would like to leave a gift to a charity, such as Weldmar Hospicecare. If you have already written your Will, it’s a good idea to review it every five to ten years to ensure it still reflects your wishes.

Question 51

How does it work?

Accepted Answer

Each individual or team (Champions!) will have a personalised page on the Charity Extra website, which feeds into the wider campaign. You will get your own link to your personal page, which you can forward to your contacts/potential donors via Text Message, WhatsApp, social media, or email, making it super-easy for them to donate to your cause at the click of a button! As you contact your list of potential donors, you should hopefully start to raise some money and you can view your incoming donations in real time on your page! The main campaign page displays the overall information... Learn more

Question 52

How high is the abseil?

Accepted Answer

Up to 50m.

Question 53

How long will I be able to use the Weldmar at Home service?

Accepted Answer

This really depends on your situation. As with all of our services, we put together an individualised plan based on your needs, and any other packages of care that are available. Even if the care moves to another provider, Weldmar will still be involved in your care at home through your Weldmar Community Nurse.

Question 54

How long will each Weldmar at Home visit be?

Accepted Answer

This really depends on your needs at the time. The minimum amount of time a member of the Weldmer at Home team will spend with you is about sixty minutes, but they could be with you for a number of hours if required.

Question 55

How many Wellbeing Sessions can I attend each week?

Accepted Answer

You can choose up to two sessions to attend each week, depending on which activities you are interested in. Your attendance will be reviewed regularly, and if/when you no longer need us to meet your specialist needs, we may discharge you from the service. Of course, you will be involved in this review.

Question 56

How many complementary therapy sessions can I have?

Accepted Answer

You can normally have a block of 6 therapy sessions, but this can be extended.

Question 57

How many counselling sessions will I have?

Accepted Answer

You are offered an initial six sessions counselling session, which can be extended in some circumstances.

Question 58

How much is entry to the Summer Fete?

Accepted Answer

The Summer Fete is £2 entry and kids go free.

Question 59

How often will I see a member of the Weldmar at Home team?

Accepted Answer

As with all of our services, the care that our Weldmar at Home team provides is very much as individual as you are.  That means we assess what you need and how Weldmar at Home can help, and then see you as often as necessary. This could be either a couple of times a day, a couple of times a week, or somewhere in between.

Question 60

I am really nervous; I have never done this before…!

Accepted Answer

Don’t worry, once you get started and have contacted a few people, you’ll be surprised to discover that it’s easier than you think! You can always start off by setting your target lower and consider raising it if you hit it! You can also build confidence by reaching out to your most likely donors first. It is not as daunting as you think and the campaign team are all on hand to help you through the two days.

Question 61

I can’t drive – do you provide transport to Wellbeing Sessions?

Accepted Answer

For patients who are unable to get themselves to our sessions, whether by driving themselves, or getting a lift with family, transport can be provided where capacity allows. We have a minibus, and make good use of volunteer car drivers to bring our patients to us where appropriate. A transport assessment would be completed by your Weldmar Community Nurse prior to attending, to ensure we can safely meet your transport needs.

Question 62

I have an ongoing health condition, can I still take part?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We recommend seeking advice from a GP first though. Any health conditions should be disclosed upon booking.

Question 63

If I want to find out about volunteering in a Weldmar charity shop, who do I ask for?

Accepted Answer

Great! Thank you for considering sparing your time to help us. Volunteers are vital in our shops to enable us to keep Weldmar’s services going. Please pop into the Weldmar Hospicecare shop or outlet that you would like to volunteer at, and ask to speak to the manager or deputy manager. Alternatively, you can get fill out our Volunteer Expression of Interest form at a convenient time.

Question 64

Is internet access available at the Inpatient Unit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Wi-fi access is available free of charge for all patients and visitors.

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How can we help you?

Care at home from Weldmar Community Nurses

Your first contact with Weldmar Hospicecare is most likely to be with your local Weldmar Community Nurse, once you have been referred from your GP or healthcare professional.

They will visit you at home to discuss your needs and the best way forward – the care we provide is as individual as you.

Common Questions

Tess’ Story

I thought a hospice was about dying. Weldmar has helped me to make the most of the life I have left. So instead of focusing on the end, they focus on the here and now, and they do that in lots and lots of ways. I am so glad that Weldmar is part of my life.

24 Hour Advice Line

John’s Story

“When the time came, Siobhan was absolutely phenomenal. I was at my wit’s end, but she just came in and took over.

We’d been told we couldn’t have a hospital bed at home, which is where Karen wanted to stay, but Siobhan organised one that day, as well as nurses to come in three times a day.

Siobhan continued to come and see us every day, and I also realised that the support was there for me, as well as Karen.”