Claire Archibald MS helps secure new Paul Sartori support service at Withybush Hospital
Claire Archibald MS has welcomed the launch of a new weekly Paul Sartori clinical support service at Withybush Hospital, after raising the need for closer working between the charity and Hywel Dda University Health Board.
Following a meeting with Paul Sartori Hospice at Home, Claire raised the charity’s work directly with healthcare representatives during a subsequent hospital meeting and encouraged closer links between the charity and the Health Board. Claire’s office also passed on Paul Sartori’s details and highlighted the charity’s wish to use space at the hospital to support patients, families and carers.
Hywel Dda University Health Board then made contact with Paul Sartori, and the charity is now using a room at Withybush Hospital to provide a weekly drop-in advice service.
The new service, based in the Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service hub at Withybush Hospital, is available every Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm. It allows patients, families and carers to speak directly with a member of Paul Sartori’s clinical team without needing an appointment.
Claire Archibald MS said:
“I am absolutely delighted that Paul Sartori is now able to offer this weekly support service at Withybush Hospital.
“Paul Sartori does so much for people across Pembrokeshire, and when I met with the team, it was clear they needed more support in making sure people knew about the services available to them across the county.”
“That is why I raised their work directly in my meeting with healthcare leaders and encouraged the Health Board and Paul Sartori to work more closely together. I also mentioned that Paul Sartori would really benefit from using the drop-in space at Withybush.
“This is exactly the kind of practical outcome I want to see: local charities, hospitals and healthcare services working together so that people can get the right support, in the right place, at the right time.
“Paul Sartori does incredible work supporting people with life-limiting conditions, and their families, often during the most difficult moments of their lives. Having them based at Withybush every week will make their advice and support more visible, more accessible and easier for families to reach.”
Paul Sartori Hospice at Home supports people with a wide range of life-limiting conditions across Pembrokeshire and operates an open referral system, meaning referrals can come from patients, family members, friends or healthcare professionals.
The charity is also keen to raise awareness that it is not solely a cancer charity, with around a third of those supported living with a non-cancer diagnosis.
Claire added:
“For many families, navigating palliative care can feel overwhelming. Being able to speak to someone face-to-face, ask questions, get practical advice, and find out what support is available at home can make a huge difference.
“I am really pleased to have helped bring people together on this, and I want to thank both Paul Sartori and the team at Withybush Hospital for making it happen.”
Anyone unable to visit the Paul Sartori team at Withybush Hospital can contact the Foundation directly on 01437 763223.