Behind the Scenes
Have you ever wondered what goes on at a Hospice? Whether in the front row or behind the scenes, it takes a dedicated team of people to provide the care, comfort, and support that make hospice truly special. At St. Joseph’s Hospice of London, an interdisciplinary team of nurses, personal support workers, social workers, chaplains, counselors, volunteers, office staff, and fundraising team members work together to ensure each resident’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs are met. Every day, these professionals and volunteers bring compassion, skill, and heart to the families we serve.
Intake & Admissions
The journey begins the moment a family reaches out for support. Our intake team gathers information and explains the process. They are often the first point of contact, ensuring families feel welcomed and supported during what can be an overwhelming time.
“I was impressed by the kindness of staff and volunteers to my sweet friend in her final days as well as to her family and friends! Her accommodations were so homey and comfortable!!”
Social Workers
Hospice social workers are advocates, guides, and sources of comfort. They help residents and families navigate end-of-life decisions, connect with resources, and provide emotional support. Whether it’s exploring care options, discussing final wishes, or simply listening, social workers ensure that each person’s values and priorities are respected.
“Hospice programs supported me on my grief journey. Each program was facilitated by compassionate and capable people, sometimes professional and, at other times, peers.”
Personal Support Workers & Nurses
Our PSWs and nurses are at the heart of day-to-day care. From assisting with personal needs, managing symptoms, to offering companionship, they are there every step of the way. Their one-on-one care helps residents live as comfortably and fully as possible, while also giving families moments to rest, reflect, and be present with their loved one.
“My husband was in hospice. He was given such great care and dignity. I will never forget the way the staff treated us in this awful time.”
Physicians & Medical Oversight
Our hospice doctors guide the care team in developing individualized plans that honor each resident’s goals and wishes. They ensure pain and symptoms are managed, treatments are tailored, and the entire team works in harmony. It’s about whole-person care. They focus not just on medical needs, but on what matters most to the person, their relationships, experiences, and dignity.
“Our Son in law spent the last month of his life at St. Joseph’s Hospice. The care and support received for all of us was beyond any expectations we had. As my husband says “it is the nicest place you wish you never had to visit”.”
Spiritual Care
Life’s final chapter often brings questions of meaning, hope, and faith. Our Spiritual care team provide spiritual support to residents and families, regardless of religion, offering comfort and a safe space to express fears, hopes, or final wishes.
“It helped me to come out of my shell and not be as afraid to open up with my pain.”
Volunteers
Volunteers bring an additional layer of care, companionship, and joy. They read, play music, take walks, support families, and even help feed and nourish. From small gestures to meaningful presence, volunteers make a profound impact on residents’ days.
“The musicians coming into my mom's room and the emotions that I was able to share with my mom through music. The soup! One volunteer would cut my mom's sandwiches into finger sized bites and place on beautiful dishes. Felt so comforting. My felt a genuine connection to the staff but a few snuck into her heart.”
Office & Administrative Support
Behind the scenes, our office and administrative staff keep everything running smoothly. From answering calls, coordinating schedules, maintaining records, to supporting families and staff, their work ensures that the hospice operates efficiently and compassionately every day.
“The care my Dad received before his passing AND the care and support my family received during this time was exceptional!”
Fundraising Team
The work of our fundraising team is critical to keeping hospice care accessible at no cost to families. The government only covers 50% of our operating costs and donors cover the other %50They plan events, develop campaigns, and build community partnerships—helping raise the funds that support resident care, grief programs, and the overall mission of St. Joseph’s Hospice of London.
“Hospice staff and volunteers became like family away from home. Their ongoing encouragement, professionalism, respect and friendly camaraderie were so appreciated”
Bereavement Support
Our care extends beyond a resident’s passing. The Bereavement Team supports families as they navigate grief, providing understanding, guidance, and resources to help them through one of life’s most difficult journeys. Grief isn’t linear, It can be cyclical and unpredictable. Our role is to help families know that what they’re feeling is normal and they are not alone.
“The group was a wonderful resource, and I will miss the members. Sharing emotions and getting to know the other members has been very rewarding. I am so glad to have joined.”
It Takes a Team
Behind every resident at St. Joseph’s Hospice is a team of people working together with compassion, patience, and dedication. From clinical care to emotional support, spiritual guidance, volunteer companionship, administrative assistance, and fundraising efforts, it truly takes a village.
And it’s all rooted in love, respect, and the mission to help families live fully, even in life’s final chapter.