Great Oaks is on the outskirts of Coleford and exists thanks to the vision of the Great Oaks committee and resolute generosity of the people of the Forest of Dean.
Fundraising began in 1997 and a pilot scheme for day care started with two patients and a small group of nurses and volunteers in March 2002.
With the experiences gained from our very first patients and their carers we have grown our services based on the needs of the patients we serve.
There is no charge to users of our service.
Our team of specially trained nurses, occupational therapist, complementary therapists, social worker and volunteers supported by visiting physiotherapist, chiropodist and chaplain, aim to ease the problems of living with a life shortening condition.
Care is tailored to suit the needs of each individual accessing our services.
In September 2005 we moved into our purpose built facilities.
This was designed, in consultation with patients, staff and volunteers, to provide flexible space that can be used according to the developing needs of the service.
Dame Cicely Saunders, the founder of the modern hospice movement, said:
Working with dying has taught me about living.
It's made me realize the enormous potential people have at the end of their lives.
Valuing the individual and his or her experience is central to the palliative care movement.
Indeed, its philosophy is: "You matter because you are you and you matter until the moment you die."
Our mission is:
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To provide palliative care on a daytime basis for adults in the community whose quality of life is affected by any life limiting condition.
Family and friends are included in this care.
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To provide this care in a welcoming, relaxing, friendly and informal atmosphere.
If you have been diagnosed with an illness that is:
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Progressive in nature,
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Life limiting,
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Currently affecting your quality of life,
then Great Oaks is here to help you.
Such illnesses might include: the cancers; advanced heart, renal, and airway diseases; and, neurological conditions such as Motor Neurone Disease and Parkinson's Disease.
We listen, we support, we care.