CANBERRA’S only day care hospice will be opened on Monday by Chief Minister Katy Gallagher.

The non-denominational centre, at Holy Covenant Anglican Church, 89 Dexter Street, Cook, will offer a day away from home for people with life-threatening illnesses and respite for their carers.

“An experienced team, including palliative care nurses, an activities officer and trained volunteers will provide professional advice, education and support for both clients and their carers,” said David Lawrance, president of Palliative Care ACT.

“We too often tend to forget that family members and friends who care 24/7 for people with life-threatening illnesses in the home can become exhausted themselves.

“This day hospice will offer support, social contact and stimulation for clients and at the same time give their carers a desperately needed break “.

Covenant Care Day Hospice will serve Belconnen and north Canberra. It can accommodate up to 12 people and will operate as a free service one day each week. Clients will receive a free, hot lunch courtesy of the Jamison Canberra Southern Cross Club and the Jamison branch of the Bendigo Bank has also supported the project.

It is a joint venture between Holy Covenant church, Palliative Care ACT, and Anglicare. Clients and their families may refer themselves directly to CCDH or seek a reference through health service professionals.