“It’s helped me to spend quality time with my mum, we can be mother & daughter again…”

Mini is caring for her mum who suffered a severe stroke. They attend the Wellbeing Hub every Wednesday and have loved spending quality time together as mother and daughter again.

“I’m caring for my mum who had a severe stroke, and one of my friends recommended the Wellbeing Hub at Bolton Hospice and asked me if I’d like to bring my mum. So I thought ok let me give it a try!

We’ve been attending every Wednesday for a couple of months now and it’s been brilliant for both of us, a real turning point.

My mum has lost her speech and mobility, but she understands everything. She can’t do much with her hands, but she can use her finger and thumb to make small movements, and in creative therapy, they’ve been helping her with creative projects she can participate in which is wonderful. She’s made herself a scarf, which she painted, and she’s loved that. She was so happy doing that, because she was smiling away which I’ve not seen for a long time.

The staff are so friendly, I can’t fault them at all.

The nurses, the staff, the volunteers - they are all absolutely brilliant.

The Wellbeing Hub isn't just about activities, though. It's a lifeline. Before the stroke, Mum thrived in the kitchen. Now, being stuck at home most days can be isolating. Coming to the Wellbeing Hub gets her out and about, a simple pleasure that makes a world of difference.

Honestly, I was nervous at first. How would she react? But those worries faded quickly. The Wellbeing Hub is so welcoming and their support extends to carers like me too. The complementary therapies have been a lifesaver for my own stress from caring for Mum 24/7. A massage session, a hair wash and blow-dry – these little treats have made a huge difference.

Now, every Wednesday morning, Mum wakes up with anticipation. The staff are incredibly supportive, offering a helping hand with the wheelchair and always ready with advice. But most importantly, the Wellbeing Hub has given us back the gift of time together.

At home, the roles are blurred – I’m a carer, daughter, housekeeper, cook, the list goes on! Here, it's different. Here, we're just Mum and daughter, reconnecting without the daily pressures. The Wellbeing Hub provides a much-needed break, a chance to be myself again.

If you're hesitant about coming, trust me, take the leap. It might just be the lifeline you and your loved one need. Just like me, you might walk in feeling unsure, but within weeks, you'll feel right at home. This place is truly special, a haven of care and support. What can I say it’s brilliant!"