When Clinical Nurse Specialist Jemma Dicken visits patients in their homes, she’s carrying forward a proud family tradition – as the third generation of palliative care nurses in her family. 

Jemma recently joined the St Giles Hospice Community team after working at a local GP surgery, bringing with her both experience and a deep commitment to supporting people through some of the most difficult times in their lives. 

Jemma explained: “Palliative care has always been a big love of mine. My background is community nursing – it’s sort of in my blood – but I’ve always had a real passion for nursing. I love working at St Giles. I’m a big supporter of my colleagues – it’s important that we’re all there for each other. The team is amazing, and the work they do is exceptional.” 

For Jemma, the most rewarding part of her role is being able to help patients where they feel most comfortable. She said: “Being able to support patients at home, where they feel safe and comfortable, makes such a difference. It’s a privilege to be a part of their journey – and it’s only possible thanks to the incredible support we receive from our community. Their generosity truly helps us make a difference every day.” 

More than 80% of St Giles’ care is provided in the community, with the dedicated Community team supporting local people, and their loved ones, to live as comfortably and independently as possible in the familiar surroundings of their own homes. 

Leon Ratcliffe, Director of Clinical Services at St Giles Hospice, said: “Our nurses are the heart of everything we do. They provide not only outstanding clinical care, but also compassion, comfort and dignity to our patients, and their loved ones, during some of their most difficult days.” 

St Giles Hospice continues to provide expert palliative and end –of life care across the community, thanks to the dedication of its volunteers and staff, and the generosity of its supporters. 

You can read Jemma’s full story – along with more inspiring updates from across the hospice – in ‘Your St Giles’. To read the newsletter and find out more about the care and services offered by St Giles Hospice, please visit: www.stgileshospice.com/your-st-giles