Crucial support services in Tameside that are seen as a 'lifeline' by those who use them are returning for the first time since the pandemic began.
Willow Wood Hospice, in Ashton-under-Lyne, had to stop holding its face-to-face day services when Covid rocked the country last March.
But with lockdown measures being eased and the vaccine roll-out well underway, the hospice's vital day services are beginning to make a comeback after more than a year.
For Betty Topham - a carer for her husband Jack, who is a patient at Willow Wood - the return of the hospice's day services has made a positive impact.
Before Covid, she was part of the hospice's arts and crafts group, but she can now take part in gardening activities and walking - while also spending time with friendly faces at Willow Wood.
“It’s a lifeline," she said.
"I can’t tell you how much we’ve enjoyed coming here over the last couple of weeks.
"I’ve planted sunflowers at home and this week we spent some time planting up pots for the hospice garden before a cuppa and a chat.
"They’re so good here, and can help if I’ve any worries or need any information.”
Before the pandemic, up to 15 people would attend Willow Wood's day unit at any one time.
Each patient was assessed and offered individual programmes tailored to their needs as part of the START Clinic - including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, creative therapy, counselling, or complementary therapies like reflexology and aromatherapy.
The hospice also had the O2 café for support groups - including sessions for people with respiratory conditions, neurological conditions or dementia.
All those services were suspended once Covid hit, but with patients being left in a vulnerable position by the coronavirus, they were still supported over the phone or online using Zoom.
Now, up to six people at a time can attend day services - including activities such as gardening, arts and crafts.
And having endured shielding for much of the past year, the return of day services is proving popular.
Rebecca Stimson, head of day services, said: “We’re starting off slowly by inviting small numbers to different groups, but it’s already making a difference to their lives.
"After shielding for a year people are finding it an absolute joy to return and of course, carers are benefiting as much as our patients.
"Our aim is to rehabilitate our patients to be able to live their best possible lives and to support them with our holistic care."
Complementary therapies will return at Willow Wood next week, and physiotherapy will start again in August.
Patients are able to refer themselves, with Willow Wood supporting those with a number of life-limiting diagnoses including cancer, dementia, heart failure, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's.
Meanwhile, day hospice staff are now also able to visit, assess and - where appropriate - support patients in their homes.
For more information call 0161 330 1100 and ask for day services, or visit willowwood.info
