As the Stratford Hospice Shop celebrates one year in the new premises, chief executive of Hospice Taranaki Kevin Nielsen, says the shop has really blossomed in the new space.
"In the 12 months since the move, sales from the shop have effectively tripled. The success is attributable to the great
work of the volunteer team and manager Tania Brown."
The increase in sales comes at a good time, says Kevin.
"Patient numbers across the province continue to rise. With increasing patient numbers there is a consequent increase in our operational costs. We have two nurses based in Stratford who work in liaison with the two nurses in Hawera to provide care and support to patients with life threatening illness who are able to remain in their own homes."
The nurses visit on whatever frequency is necessary, he says, including after hours. Over the past 12 months the two Stratford nurses have made more than 1100 home visits.
