Compassion Beyond Bars: Hospice Waikato's Palliative Care at Waikeria Prison

Waikeria Prison is located near Te Awamutu in the Waikato region. At Hospice Waikato, we believe that everyone deserves compassionate healthcare, regardless of their circumstances, and Debi Wreford-Clark, one of our dedicated Clinical Nurse Specialists, has been providing specialist palliative care support to several prisoners at Waikeria Prison since early last year. 

This is an example of how our care is not only delivered to patients in their homes, in aged care facilities, and in our Inpatient unit.  Debi is working alongside the amazing Corrections Registered Nurses at Waikeria Prison and this collaboration and shared care approach is positively impacting on the lives of many prisoners, providing relief, comfort, and emotional support during their final months, weeks and days.

Prisoners generally respond positively to hospice care, appreciating the compassion and dignity it provides, and we have included some examples below -

• Many feel a sense of relief knowing they will receive proper care and pain management. Hospice care helps them live their final days in comfort.

• Hospice programs often provide emotional and psychological support, which is crucial for prisoners who may feel isolated, or who struggle with loneliness and sometimes limited family support. 

• Hospice care focuses on improving the quality of life for terminally ill prisoners, allowing them to receive care and support in their final moments. 

Hospice care in prisons is a vital service that addresses the unique needs of terminally ill prisoners, providing them with much-needed comfort. We are delighted to share our story of the compassionate work being done at Waikeria Prison, the wonderful relationship we have developed with the Corrections team, and the difference this shared care approach makes in the lives of these individuals.

Pictured:  Hospice Waikato’s Debi Wreford-Clark with members of the Corrections team.