Grove House in St Albans is an oasis of hope and activity in a world that can sometimes seem a bit bleak.

Located next to St Albans City Hospital, it is the heartbeat of Rennie Grove Hospice Care’s day services providing practical and social support for local people from point of diagnosis of cancer and other life-limiting illnesses along with their families and carers.

Whether you are seeking solace, emotional or clinical support or useful advice, Rennie Grove’s team of specialists is on hand to help. The range of clinical and support services the team provides include symptom management, counselling and benefits advice. But other – more surprising – activities include scar treatment therapy, ear acupuncture and even a choir for patients, carers, volunteers, staff and anyone else who would like to join in.

“Grove House is a bright and uplifting place where patients benefit from being with others in similar circumstances and from the help they get from our nurse-led holistic care,” said Joan Follett, clinical lead for day services at Grove House.

Patients who have been referred to Grove House are greeted in a calm and sensitive purpose-built setting where they can voice any concerns they may have. Rennie Grove’s specialist nurses can assess and help manage symptoms, provide advice, clinical care and health education, and make referrals to other healthcare professionals if needed.

There is also a full programme of complementary therapies and group activities focused on boosting rehabilitation and wellbeing. Relaxation techniques, music therapy, gentle exercise, art and creative activities, yoga, various expert speakers and visits from Pets As Therapy dogs all contribute to the positive vibe.

A tasty nutritious cooked lunch is also available for patients attending day hospice which helps towards general well-being.

“The support patients and their carers gain from time spent at Grove House is so important in helping them improve their quality of life and how they live day-to-day,” said Joan. “The people, services and activities definitely brighten our visitors’ day, lift their spirits and help maximise their coping strategies,” she added.

All services are free of charge, although small donations are requested to cover the costs of food and drink.

Day services run throughout the week – including Day Hospice on Wednesday to Friday and the drop-in session on Tuesday mornings. This is for anyone wanting to know more about what’s on offer and how to access it.

For more information about Rennie Grove’s day services in St Albans, please call 01727 731013.