Ashgate Hospice opened in 1988 to provide specialist palliative care for the population of North Derbyshire. It is situated in delightful grounds on the western fringe of Chesterfield. Although it is an independent charity, it receives 65% of its funding from the local Health Commission and works closely with other health care providers in the District.

The Hospice has a 14 bed in-patient wing, a day care facility accommodating up to 16 patients on each week day, a home care team comprising two nurse specialists based at Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Royal Hospital. Patients are offered symptom control, respite and terminal care, on a short-term basis, being returned (with supporting care) to their own homes whenever possible.

A multidisciplinary approach to patient care and support for relatives has been adopted by the Hospice and a Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Clinical Psychologist, Chaplain and Social Worker join with the medical and nursing staff in completing the team. Multidisciplinary meetings and joint medical staff clinical meetings are held weekly, Palliative Care Staff Seminars are held bi-monthly.

Education is an important function of the Hospice and courses, seminars and work placements are provided for health professionals working in North Derbyshire.

The trainee will become an integral part of the team and will be involved in all aspects of Hospice care including ward/day care rounds with senior medical staff and rotating attachment to other professionals working in the Hospice. There will also be the regular opportunity to attend at local Pain and Oncology Clinics.

Trainee on call commitment: 1 night per week

1 weekend in 5
The post is non-residential.