Princess Alice Hospice provides a wide range of specialist support for carers and family members of people living with a life limiting illness. Their services recognise that caring can be emotionally demanding and that families and carers need support in their own right, both during a person’s illness and after a death. Richmond Carers Centre works alongside organisations such as Princess Alice Hospice to help carers access appropriate, compassionate and timely support.
Regular activities for carers and families
Family and carers coffee morning
Every Thursday Princess Alice Hospice hold a coffee morning, which is open to family members/friends/carers of anyone with a life limiting illness. The person who is ill does not need to be under the care of Princess Alice Hospice. It is a drop in and so there is no need to let them know if you are coming. You are welcome to come as a one off with a specific query or to attend regularly. It is a chance to chat over any concerns and share ideas. The Family and Carers Lead, Liz, attends every week and can answer questions you might have about supporting someone who is seriously ill and the support available to you from Princess Alice Hospice and in the community
10.30-11.30am
Every Thursday
Venue: Princess Alice Hospice (in the café area)
Online carers discussion group
This group is similar to the Family and carers coffee morning (above) but for those who would find it easier to join online. Please email wellbeing@pah.org.uk for the link to join the online meeting.
10.00-11.00
Every Wednesday
Delivered: Online
Family and Carers rolling programme
A series of talks on coping with the emotional and practical challenges that you may face when someone close to you has a life limiting illness . Please contact wellbeing@pah.org.uk or 0300 10 20 10 (option 3 wellbeing) to express an interest.
Next series starts in January 2026
Emotional and social support for carers
Princess Alice Hospice offers a variety of opportunities for carers to connect with others in similar situations, helping to reduce isolation and provide mutual understanding. These include regular informal groups, both online and in person, where carers can talk openly, share experiences and receive support from hospice staff.
Carers are welcome to attend online discussion groups facilitated by experienced professionals, as well as coffee mornings at the hospice that offer a relaxed and welcoming environment. There are also gentle social activities such as community walks and a choir, which are open to carers and patients and are designed to promote wellbeing, creativity and connection.
Individual wellbeing and support sessions
In addition to group activities, Princess Alice Hospice provides individual support for carers who may need more focused help. Wellbeing staff offer one to one conversations and regular check ins, giving carers space to talk about their situation, their worries and how they are coping.
Support sessions may focus on emotional wellbeing, managing stress, preparing for future changes or finding ways to look after personal health while caring for someone else. Creative and therapeutic activities, including music based sessions, are also available to help carers relax and reconnect with themselves.
The hospice Wellbeing Centre plays an important role in delivering this support, offering programmes that address the emotional, physical and social impact of caring.
Practical information and guidance
Princess Alice Hospice provides clear and sensitive information to help carers understand what to expect at different stages of illness. This includes guidance on caring towards the end of life, practical considerations and emotional responses that carers and families may experience.
There is also advice on self care, including looking after physical health, managing tiredness and maintaining nutrition and hydration. This information is designed to help carers feel more confident and supported in their role.
Spiritual and compassionate support
For those who wish to access it, Princess Alice Hospice offers spiritual support through its chaplaincy service. This is available to carers and family members of all faiths and of none and provides a space to reflect, talk and find comfort during difficult times.
The hospice also runs a Compassionate Neighbours programme, where trained volunteers offer friendship and companionship through regular visits or phone calls. This support can be particularly valuable for carers who feel lonely or who would benefit from having someone to talk to outside their immediate family.
Support for children and young people
Princess Alice Hospice recognises that children and young people are affected when someone close to them is seriously ill or has died. Specialist social workers provide tailored support to children, young people and their families, with no fixed time limits.
The hospice also runs a dedicated group for bereaved children and young people, offering a safe and nurturing space where they can meet others, take part in creative activities and express their feelings with professional support. Advice is also available to parents, schools and other professionals supporting young people through illness and bereavement.
A holistic approach to caring
Princess Alice Hospice takes a holistic approach that recognises carers as individuals with their own needs, not only as people providing care. Their services aim to offer reassurance, practical help and emotional support so that carers feel valued, understood and supported throughout their caring journey and beyond.
Richmond Carers Centre can help carers find out more about Princess Alice Hospice services and explore whether this support may be right for them alongside other local and national resources.
