A NURSE who is celebrating 40 years working at Manorlands has spoken of her experiences in the hope it will encourage more people to consider a career in palliative care.

Andrea Marsh qualified as a nurse in 1978 and worked initially at a hospital in her home town of Halifax.

But after relocating three years later, she joined the team at the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice.

“I was aware of Manorlands – as a former colleague worked there – so out of the blue I thought I would ring and see if there were any jobs,” said Andrea, 64. “I was invited along for a chat and the rest is history!”

In her role at the hospice, she provides expert palliative care to people living with life-limiting conditions – as well as supporting their families and loved ones.

“I’ve always worked on the inpatient unit and during that time I have had the privilege of caring for hundreds of patients,” said Andrea.

“I often bump into people who remember me – and in some cases I have looked after multiple members of the same family. I think in those situations having that connection straightaway can be reassuring, because they know me and they know their loved one will be OK.

“My dad passed away here six years ago and my mum said that as soon as you walk in you get a sense of relief and comfort. There’s something about the atmosphere – I can’t explain it, but it’s really special.”

During her career, Andrea has seen palliative care evolve and become a much more specialist area of nursing.

“Hospices used to just be seen as a place where people went to die – but it’s not a one-way street any more and you now see people go home well after symptom management,” she says. “Nowadays the drugs are also far more specialised and we can offer a range of complementary therapies and services.

“Ultimately, though, the level of care at Manorlands has never changed and will never falter and that’s what matters to people. It’s homely and full of love.”

She added: “I just love my job. I feel like it’s part of me, and I’m part of it.”

Manorlands is currently seeking registered nurses to join its palliative care team. For more details and to apply, visit sueryder.org/palliativecareers.