“To be by someone’s side at the end—is a great privilege.” — Sue Herd, Nurse Co-ordinator, Campden Home Nursing
Sue Herd has been a nurse for 54 years. Her career has taken her from South Wales and Cornwall to Guernsey, and seven years ago into people’s homes across Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and Warwickshire with Campden Home Nursing.
“I love nursing as much as I did when I started. Caring for someone at such an important stage of life is an honour.”
Sue is a Nurse Co-ordinator and alongside the other Nurse Co-ordinators, Esther Newman and Nicki Henderson. She is the first person to meet the patient and family in need and makes an in person assessment. She develops personalised care plans, working closely with families, GPs, District Nurses, and palliative care teams.
“We work on a rota to offer continuity and reassurance. We’re usually the first people patients and families meet. We listen carefully, review regularly, and try to meet the patient’s wishes. Not everyone is ready for this stage of care. We listen without pressure, and guide gently.”
District Nurses and GPs tend to refer a patient, though families can also refer directly. Sue highlights the need for sensitivity at what tends to be an emotional time. Sue’s role also includes attending multi-disciplinary meetings, managing Continuing Healthcare assessments, and representing the charity in the wider community.
“Every day is full, but always purposeful. We’re here to ensure the right care is in place, with compassion at its heart.”
After five decades in nursing, Sue says the end-of-life work she does with Campden Home Nursing is the most meaningful part of her career. We are deeply grateful for Sue’s support.
“Every day is full, but always purposeful. We’re here to ensure the right care is in place, with compassion at its heart.”
After five decades in nursing, Sue says the end-of-life work she does with Campden Home Nursing is the most meaningful part of her career. We are deeply grateful for Sue’s support.
