A LOCAL nursing team from the terminal illness charity, Marie Curie, won a national award for delivering outstanding end of life care to people and their families throughout the Vale of Glamorgan.

The charity’s Hospice at Home team delivers specialist care for those who want to die at home.

Being able to sleep in their own home and be with their family, pets and friends is what most people would want at the end of their lives.

In one day, the team will often visit patients and their families several times.

They offer respite services overnight throughout the year which enables family members to take a break from caring duties knowing that their loved ones are being looked after.

Elizbeth Humphreys, a Senior Nurse at the Marie Curie Hospice, Cardiff and the Vale said:

“I feel that the team deserve recognition for the outstanding service that they provide. They truly do go that extra mile to ensure that patients and their families within Cardiff and Vale receive their final wish to remain at home at the end of life their lives.

“Many of our patients’ families tell us they could not have coped without the help of the team.

"Without the Hospice at Home Team, dying with dignity at home would not be possible for many of our patients.”

Louise James, Healthcare Assistant from the Hospice at Home team, said:

“Our team is absolutely delighted to have received this award.

"Caring for people at the end of their life is a privilege but can also take an emotion toll so this award has really given the team a boost.

"We couldn’t have done it without wonderful colleagues and great dedication.”

“In the last year, the team has tripled in staff members," said Andrew Wilson-Mouasher, Marie Curie Divisional General Manager in Wales.

"It’s a testament to their work that they are forever-changing and increasing in size to deliver care to patients who need it most.”

The nationwide Marie Curie People Awards celebrated the efforts of staff and volunteers. Awards were given out not only to thank people for their fantastic achievements, but also for championing the charity’s values.