FAQs
Find answers to common questions about hospice care, referrals, support services, volunteering and ways to help Franklin Hospice.
About Franklin Hospice
What is Franklin Hospice?
Franklin Hospice provides specialist palliative care and support for people living with a life-limiting illness, as well as support for their family and whānau. Our focus is on helping people live as well as possible for as long as possible.
Who can access Franklin Hospice services?
Anyone living in the Franklin district with a life-limiting illness may be eligible for hospice support. We care for people with a range of conditions, not just cancer.
Do I have to be at the end of life to receive hospice care?
No. Hospice care can be provided at any stage of a life-limiting illness when additional support, symptom management, or specialist palliative care is needed.
Do I need hospice if I’m not dying?
Many people are surprised to learn that Hospice care is about living well, not just dying. We often support people for months or even years, helping manage symptoms, coordinate care, support families, and improve quality of life.
Is hospice care free?
Yes. Our clinical services are provided free of charge to patients and their families. However, we rely on donations, fundraising, grants, and our Op Shop to help fund our services.
Referrals & Getting Support
How do I get referred to Franklin Hospice?
Referrals are usually made by a healthcare professional such as your GP, hospital specialist, community nurse or another provider involved in your care. Our team can also help explain the referral process if you are unsure where to start.
Can I refer myself or a family member?
The best first step is to contact Franklin Hospice or speak with your GP or healthcare provider. We can explain what information is needed and guide you towards the appropriate referral pathway.
What happens after a referral is sent?
Our clinical team reviews the referral and considers the patient’s diagnosis, current needs and the type of specialist palliative care support required. We may contact the patient, whānau or referring healthcare professional for further information before confirming the most appropriate next step.
What if I am not sure whether hospice is appropriate?
Please ask. You do not need to decide this alone. Franklin Hospice can help you or your healthcare provider understand whether hospice support may be appropriate and what other services may be available.
How soon should someone be referred?
It is often helpful to involve hospice earlier rather than waiting until the final days of life. Earlier referral can provide more time for symptom management, planning, family support and improving quality of life.
Care & Support
Is hospice only for people with cancer?
No. Franklin Hospice supports eligible people living with many types of life-limiting illness, including cancer and non-cancer conditions.
Where is hospice care provided?
Most Franklin Hospice care is provided in the place a person calls home. This may be a private home, retirement village or aged residential care facility. We work alongside GPs, hospital teams and other healthcare providers.
Does Franklin Hospice have an inpatient unit?
Franklin Hospice primarily provides community-based palliative care and support. When inpatient or hospital-level care is required, our team works with the appropriate healthcare services to help coordinate care.
What support is available for carers?
Carers can receive practical guidance, information, emotional support and access to programmes and services designed to help them feel more supported in their caring role.
Is support available after someone dies?
Yes. Our support for families does not necessarily end when a loved one dies. Bereavement support may include counselling, groups, information, resources and opportunities to connect with others.
What support is available for family and whānau?
Support may include information, practical guidance, counselling, social support, family conversations, help navigating services and bereavement care.
Living Well & Support Programmes
What wellbeing programmes does Franklin Hospice offer?
Franklin Hospice offers a range of programmes and services designed to support wellbeing, connection and quality of life. These may include Daybreak, Kōwhai, Men’s Group, walking and grief-support programmes, complementary therapies and other activities.
Who can attend hospice programmes?
Eligibility varies depending on the programme. Some are designed for patients, while others support carers, family members or people who are bereaved. Contact our team to find the programme that best suits your situation.
Do I have to be receiving nursing care to access a programme?
Not necessarily. Access depends on the individual programme and your connection with Franklin Hospice. Our team can advise which services may be appropriate.
Is bereavement support available even after hospice care has ended?
Yes. Franklin Hospice can continue supporting family members and loved ones through grief and bereavement after a death.
GET INVOLVED
Supporting Franklin Hospice
How can I support Franklin Hospice?
You can support Franklin Hospice through donations, fundraising, volunteering, shopping with or donating goods to the Hospice Shop, supporting events and campaigns, or partnering with us as a local business.
How do I volunteer?
Volunteers support many areas of Franklin Hospice, including patient and family services, transport, programmes, events, fundraising, retail and community activities. Visit our Volunteer page or contact our team to learn about current opportunities.
Where do donations go?
Donations help Franklin Hospice provide palliative care and support services for people and families across the Franklin community. They also help fund programmes, equipment and the future development of hospice services.
Can my business support Franklin Hospice?
Yes. Businesses can support Franklin Hospice through sponsorship, partnerships, fundraising, workplace giving, event support and other community initiatives.
Can I leave a gift to Franklin Hospice in my will?
Yes. Leaving a gift in your will is a meaningful way to help ensure hospice care remains available for future generations. Our team can provide information to help you discuss this with your solicitor or adviser.
STILL HAVE A QUESTION?
We’re Here To Help
If you cannot find the answer you are looking for, our team is happy to help point you in the right direction.