A NEW around-the-clock service to patients at home is being introduced from next week by Pendleside Hospice, Reedley.

Hospice Care for Burnley and Pendle can launch the new service thanks to a £221,000 grant from the National Lottery new opportunities fund.

The Hospice At Home service provides support to patients with palliative care needs in their own homes and was introduced three years ago.

The services include personal nursing care, respite care, emotional support for patients, family and close friends and advice on symptom control. Now the service can be extended to provide 24-hour cover.

The grant covers a three-year period which starts on Monday.

The Hospice At Home team is headed by Senior Sister Marina Garside. The small team has been extended and now includes Karen Boxhall from St Catherine's Hospice , Preston, as home support co-ordinator.

Referrals to the new service can come from any health care professional or relative provided their GP is also notified.