Due praise given to St Luke's

“IT was a safe place during a dark time. Somewhere we could be ourselves and spend precious time together.”

Those are the words of Pete Richards, whose partner, Richard Shaw, was cared for at St Luke’s Hospice before he died.

When someone is nearing the end of their life, it matters more than ever that they should be with those dearest to them. However, according to research carried out by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), some LGBTQ+ people with terminal illness encounter discrimination and lack of understanding at a time when they need acceptance and support.

During Hospice Care Week (October 4 to 8), Pete is sharing his story to demonstrate what high-caliber hospice care looks like when you are part of a gay couple, and the difference it makes.

When retail manager Pete met accountant Richard in 2012, their instant connection saw the two become inseparable, moving in together, enjoying holidays and relishing time spent with friends and family, including their two young nephews, aged six and four.