On Wednesday 3rd December, we were delighted to welcome the Bishop of Coventry, the Right Reverend Sophie Jelley, to our Warwick Myton Hospice. Her visit provided an opportunity to see first-hand the breadth of specialist care we offer to people living with a life-limiting illness and their families.

Bishop Sophie met with our newly appointed Chair of Trustees, Sarah Faulkner, CEO, Ruth Freeman, and Spiritual Care Lead, Ellie Clack to discuss our vital work, recent developments and the challenges we are currently facing.

During her visit, Bishop Sophie was shown around both our inpatient unit and outpatient areas, where she spent time with our dedicated clinical teams. She also met some of our wonderful volunteers, whose invaluable contribution across a wide range of roles helps make the work we do possible.

Sophie’s visit follows in the legacy of the late Bishop of Coventry John Gibbs, who more than four decades ago helped establish the committee that first explored the need for a hospice in Warwickshire. Thanks to his vision, and the determination and fundraising efforts of many others, our Warwick Myton Hospice opened its doors in 1982 – a legacy of compassion and community that continues today.

Sarah Faulkner, Chair of Trustees at The Myton Hospices, said:

It was wonderful to welcome Bishop Sophie and to share with her the incredible care taking place across Myton Hospice. Her visit was a valuable reminder of the strength of our community and the importance of continuing to champion the compassionate, person-centred care that Myton is known for. We look forward to deepening our partnership with Bishop Sophie and the Diocese.

Bishop of Coventry, Sophie Jelley, said:

It was such a privilege to visit The Myton Hospices this week, to meet the team and to witness the kindness and peace of the place. Hospice care depends largely on the generosity of ordinary people offering what they can. Much as it should not be this way, I am so very grateful that the work is able to continue. I look forward to doing all I can to support them so that many more people and their families can have this support in the future.

Ellie Clack, Spiritual Lead at The Myton Hospices, said:

Bishop Sophie showed her warmth and genuine connection with everyone she met, and she reflected a deep understanding of the importance of seeing and valuing the whole person – something that is at the heart of everything we do. We are excited to continue working together in partnership to serve our communities with care, compassion and dignity.

Ruth Freeman, CEO at The Myton Hospices, said:

It was a pleasure to share with Bishop Sophie the work our amazing teams undertake every day. Her interest, kindness and thoughtful questions meant a great deal to our staff and volunteers. Visits like this remind us how important hospice care is and how vital it is that we continue to protect and strengthen these services for the people of Coventry and Warwickshire.

Despite increasing demand for our services, statutory funding has reduced to just 17%. This means we must raise over £1 million every month to ensure we can continue providing our care free of charge for patients and their loved ones.

To learn more about the services we provide, and how you can support your local hospice visit the link below.

Support your local hospice HERE!