St. Michael’s Hospice – Care, Support and Community in North Hampshire

St. Michael’s Hospice has supported the North Hampshire community since 1992. It began with a small committee led by former Mayor Margaret Weston, who wanted local people to have more choice and understanding when facing life-limiting illness. Today, the Hospice cares for over 500 patients each year and continues to champion high-quality palliative care across the region.

Our Story and Symbol

The Hospice team carries the same spirit and ambition as the founders. Their dedication sits at the heart of every service we deliver. Our emblem, the Snow Goose, reflects this commitment. Snow Geese stick together, protect their own and never leave a member of the flock behind. This sense of loyalty mirrors our promise to stand beside patients and families during the most challenging moments.

Our Mission, Vision and THRIVE Values

St. Michael’s Hospice supports anyone with a life-limiting condition, helping them enjoy the best quality of life possible. We lead palliative care provision across North Hampshire and work closely with patients, families, carers and healthcare partners to shape services that meet real needs.

We follow our THRIVE values every day:

Trust – we stay accountable and transparent.

Honesty – we communicate openly and compassionately.

Respect – we value each other’s skills and boundaries.

Impact – we seek positive and lasting change.

Value – we recognise our role in the community.

Evolve – we stay ambitious and ready for future challenges.

In-Patient Care at St. Michael’s Hospice

Our ten-bed In-Patient Unit provides specialist support in a calm, homely setting. Each ensuite room is designed for comfort, with easy access to gardens and outdoor spaces. Patients may stay for symptom control, rehabilitation after treatment or short periods of support before returning home or moving to another care setting.

Families often share how much comfort they feel when their loved ones enter the Hospice. Many describe the staff as warm, respectful and attentive, making difficult days feel more manageable.

Supporting the Whole Person

We believe that excellent care goes beyond medical support. The Hospice team helps with practical issues, emotional wellbeing and social needs. This holistic approach allows patients to make the most of their time and eases pressure on families and carers. We do not offer long-term or respite care, as our focus is on providing short stays when they matter most.

Hospice at Home

Some people prefer to remain at home, and our Hospice at Home team makes this possible. They offer expert symptom management, emotional support and practical guidance in familiar surroundings. The team works closely with community nurses, GPs and care agencies to coordinate care. This service is free, funded largely by the generosity of local supporters.

Patients aged 18 or over with advanced progressive illness may be eligible for referral. Those wishing to stay at home, or families needing extra support, can speak to a GP or healthcare professional about accessing the team.

Patient and Family Support

The Hospice also offers emotional, spiritual and practical help through its Patient and Family Support Team. This service is available to anyone already known to the Hospice, including relatives, friends and carers. It provides a safe space to talk, reflect and find support during difficult times.