Suffolk hospice launches new activity days as young people with life-limiting illnesses are living longer
They are aimed at people aged 18 and over to socialise with their peers.
More young people with life-limiting conditions are surviving longer due to medical advances, so a hospice in Ipswich is introducing new activity days just for them.
After leaving school many young adults can easily become isolated, so Zest Days – that take place every Friday – will allow people aged 18 throughout and over to meet up, play games and enjoy themselves.
Suffolk young adult charity, Zest, has extended its support to young people throughout with the launch of its new service, Zest Days.
From 2nd July, people living with life-limiting illnesses can socialise and take part in inclusive activities, each Fridays between 10am to 4pm.
The idea is that young adults will be able to enjoy independence away from home through a range of activities provided by coordinators, including cooking, creating music, sport and visits from entertainers.
Helen Finlinson, Head of Inclusion and Development at St Elizabeth Hospice, said:
“We are so pleased to be able to launch Zest Days as it is something our Zest young adults and their families have been keen for us to develop.
“After leaving school many of the families we support report a lack of suitable options for day services and meaningful activity, due to both their age and complexity their conditions, and by developing Zest Days we will be meeting this previously unmet need.
“As Zest Days evolves we will be co-producing the service with the young adults and their families, to ensure these amazing young people have a regular supported place to meet and have fun together as part of their post education community care provision. If you would like to know more about Zest’s services please contact our team who are more than happy to help.”
Part of the St Elizabeth Hospice Group, Zest is a scheme which sees the independent Suffolk charity work closely with children’s hospices and other services, to ensure young adults have a smooth transition into adult care.
Zest ensures all the young people, under its care, receive specialist support, tailored treatment and services needed to be able to enjoy life to the full.
It also hosts Short Breaks, which allows young people to take time out from being at home while also providing families with vital respite. Zest helps young adults with challenging conditions to fulfil their aspirations. Whether this is to manage symptoms, access opportunities in the community or reduce loneliness by enabling them to have fun with friends.
Helen Finlinson added: “It has been a difficult year for all during the pandemic but especially for the families who use Zest, as they have experienced extra stresses and responsibilities, such as long periods of shielding that for many has meant being at home much of the time with less care support.”
“At Zest Days we are able to provide trained staff and a supportive environment that can meet the complex medical needs, learning disabilities, offering age-appropriate social opportunities. While it will also be a good opportunity for new users to try and have a taste of what Zest and its wider services can provide.”