Day in the life of Amanda, Patient Activities Coordinator at Dove House.

Hello, my name is Amanda, and I’m the Patient Activities Coordinator here at Dove House. I first started working at the hospice in 2005 on the Inpatient Unit, and for the past 10 years, I’ve been in my current role where my focus is much more around group support, creativity, and community connection.

My role is varied, and that’s one of the things I love most about it. I run our Friday Friends group alongside a wonderful team of volunteers. It’s aimed at people in the community who may be isolated or lonely. We have craft tables, games, bingo, and of course, lots of tea, cake, and conversation. It’s such a warm, uplifting space. I also now run the Living Well Group, which includes relaxation sessions, mindful crafts, and time spent in the garden. Getting out into nature is incredibly calming and often brings a lot of joy to the people who attend.

There’s a lot of preparation that goes on behind the scenes. I prep for around 32 people each week, planning out the crafts, sourcing materials, and making sure everything is ready to go. One of the best parts of my job is that I have the freedom to decide what we do each week. I listen closely to what our group members enjoy or want to try next. That personal connection makes all the difference.

Many years ago, my mother-in-law was cared for at the hospice, and I remember thinking at the time, I’d love to work somewhere like this. When a job came up, I didn’t hesitate. I jumped at the chance, and I’m so glad I did. From the beginning, I felt I could combine my love of caring for people with my creative side, something I truly value.

It’s hard to describe what makes Dove House so special unless you’ve experienced it, but there’s something unique about this place. Everything we do is centred around the individual, not just the patient, but their families too. That patient-centred care, the genuine thought that goes into every interaction, makes Dove House stand out. It’s a place full of compassion and heart.

No two days are the same, which keeps things interesting. On the Inpatient Unit, I tailor activities to what patients want, it could be something calming like painting, or even just a chat. In the groups, I love seeing the crafts take shape and watching people come out of their shells. It's especially rewarding when someone who insists, “I’m not doing that, crafts are for kids,” ends up creating something wonderful. Seeing their pride and enjoyment is such a highlight.

Some of the most memorable moments are definitely when we create keepsakes. Whether it’s a memory book for a wedding at the hospice, or fingerprint art for a family, these are things that truly matter. They bring comfort, and it’s an honour to be part of that. I also love watching people connect in the groups, for some, it’s the only interaction they have all week. It gives them purpose and a sense of belonging, which is so important.
My mornings often start with something hands-on, like taking a plaster cast out of a mould. Then it’s onto ordering supplies, planning the week’s crafts, and preparing for the different groups. I run Friday Friends sessions with 8 crafts in the morning and 16 in the afternoon. I also assist the Occupational Therapist in the Living Well Group so that’s  8 more to set up crafts for. I also respond to referrals for the Inpatient Unit and support there when needed.

I often help with creating memory books, fingerprint keepsakes, or clay prints for families. These small gestures can mean the world to someone going through a tough time.

I’m proud of the impact the creative groups have. Over the years, we’ve built some amazing sculptures – an Easter bunny, a giant nutcracker, Santa, a snowman, and we’re currently working on a sleigh in the Welcome Wednesday Bereavement Group. It’s not just about the end result, but about the shared experience of creating something together.

Crafts have become a gentle but powerful way for people to express grief, to reflect, and to connect with others going through similar experiences. It’s incredible to witness.

Working in a hospice naturally comes with emotional moments, especially when patients are nearing the end of life. But I have learned to switch off when I go home. I know I’ve done what I can to help that day, and that makes it easier. I’m very calm and grounded, which really helps. I’ve developed strong patient skills over the years, and I don’t get fazed easily.

I’d love to see the groups continue to grow and flourish. Now that the Family Support Team has taken over the Bereavement Group, I can dedicate more time to the patients and the creative side of my role. It feels like an exciting new chapter.