Family & Whānau Support
Supporting families and whānau
When someone is living with a life-limiting illness, the impact is felt by the whole family. Hospice Southland provides support not only for patients, but also for the people who care for and support them.
Our team offers guidance, reassurance, and practical help for families and whānau throughout the journey — from the early stages of illness through to bereavement support after a loved one has died.
Emotional and practical support
Families often carry a great deal of responsibility when caring for someone who is unwell. Hospice Southland’s team can help provide guidance, support, and space to talk through what you are experiencing.
Support may include:
+ Talking with a counsellor about worries, fears, or difficult emotions
+ Guidance for family members and carers supporting someone at home
+ Practical advice to help manage day-to-day challenges
+ Support to help families understand what to expect as illness progresses
Support for carers
Many families take on the role of primary caregiver. Hospice Southland helps support those caring for someone at home by offering guidance, reassurance, and access to specialist advice when needed.
Support for carers may include:
+ Advice from hospice nurses about managing symptoms and comfort
+ Help navigating health services and available support
+ Opportunities to talk with someone who understands the challenges of caring
+ Reassurance and guidance when care needs change
Bereavement support
Support from Hospice Southland continues after the death of a loved one. Families and whānau may access bereavement support to help navigate grief and adjust during the months following loss.
Bereavement support may include:
+ Grief and loss counselling
+ Follow-up support from hospice staff
+ Remembrance services and opportunities to connect with others who have experienced loss
Living Legacies
Hospice Southland offers a Living Legacies programme that helps patients and families capture memories, stories, and personal reflections.
These biographies can provide comfort and connection for families and create a meaningful record of a person’s life and experiences.
You are not alone
Families and whānau often tell us that having someone to talk to, ask questions, or simply listen can make a significant difference during a difficult time.
If you would like to talk about support for your family or whānau, our team is here to help.