Steve Barnes' Interview Summary
Steve was born in 1953 and was the Hospice Chaplain for 19 years. The role involved him talking to patients and their families and answering questions when he could. He would also support the staff and volunteers when needed. Steve often found himself a go-between when families and patients found it difficult to communicate especially if the patient wanted to discuss their funeral. He would often sit with patients and say a prayer and offer reassurance when needed. Steve has overseen several weddings at the Hospice during his time and has conducted many funerals of patients when asked to do so. In fact although he is now retired he is often contacted by families of patients he supported asking him to conduct services. Steve got involved with the fundraising and has participated in many sponsored cycle rides and swimathons. The hospice no longer has a Chaplain, this service being bought in when needed. Of his many memories of Willen he loved the fact that the hospice had resident cats and a dog and feels that often helped the patients. Steve has seen many changes and feels everything is more clinicalised and results based but still loves the calmness and tranquility of Willen.
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