We provide a very much multi-professional approach, enabling and meeting the individual needs of patients, their families and friends, in a relaxed and safe environment.

How We Began

The idea for a Hospice in Rochdale was the brainchild of Margaret Geoghegan MBE – then a ward clerk at Birch Hill Hospital.  The ward Margaret worked in had many patients suffering from cancer, who on discharge, were often referred to the “nearby” Hospices in Manchester and Yorkshire.

Recognising the need for something a little closer to home for Rochdale patients, Margaret assembled a team of willing volunteers, and in 1983 an appeal was launched and the team began the daunting task of raising sufficient money to build Springhill Hospice.

The doors of the Hospice were opened by HRH Princess Anne in 1989. It is due to the determination of Margaret Geoghegan and her team of helpers, that the people of Rochdale have a Hospice they are rightly proud of.

The tremendous support from the public, from the original concept, to the present day allows the Hospice to continue providing specialist services to patients and their families and friends.

What We Offer

In addition to Medical and Nursing assessment, services are available from the spiritual care co-ordinator and counsellor  as appropriate. The in-patient unit has lounge facilities, with computer and internet access and a widescreen TV system and DVD.

Day Hospice facilities, including transport are provided. Care is planned to meet individual requirements and evaluated by the staff team on an ongoing basis. The Day Hospice - whilst providing ongoing clinical care and the services of the spiritual care co-ordinator and counsellor - also provides a comprehensive programme of leisure and creative activities.

Out-patient appointments are offered, and can often be a good introduction to the Hospice.  Patients and families can experience the Hospice atmosphere over a short period of time.  After their appointment, they can, if they wish, have a drink and look around the Hospice.

Overnight accomodation is available for families and friends wishing to stay with their loved one. Two twin rooms are available, with TV and en suite facilities.

Extending Our Care

At Springhill we believe in extending care to family and friends. Our Bereavement Group, which meets every month, offers help and support on a voluntary basis as long as it is needed. Our aim is to give bereaved people a chance to talk. Sharing thoughts and feelings with trained staff and volunteers who offer sympathetic listening and confidential support helps to ease the pain of grief.

Advice and guidance are available from a range of professionals within the Hospice. All staff are trained to the highest standard, are fully CRB screened, and are expected to keep updated with the latest developments within their profession.

Running the Hospice

The cost of running all aspects of the Hospice are in excess of £2.7 million, which equates to £7,500 per day.  Some 70% of this cost needs to come from Fundraising within the local community with events, charity shops, legacies and donations.

The Hospice is committed to the sharing of knowledge and expertise with others. The Education Unit is expanding its courses and services to meet identified training needs, and offers training courses to outside agencies. The Education Unit provides a variety of courses for outside personnel - many of these are open access.

Looking Ahead

The Hospice continually strives to improve its services, and encourage and welcome service users and volunteers to actively participate in developments. Making plans for the future and providing new services requires highly skilled staff and training and premises that meet current healthcare regulations.  Our aim is to continue to give the highest standard of care to patients and their relatives.