Background

In 1997 the Hospice in Moray (H.I.M) steering committee published their proposals for a day hospice in Moray. The efforts of the (H.I.M) campaign have been the key to the progress of this development. In 1998, the Scottish Feedback Action Research report was published. One of its key recommendations was the provision of a day hospice/resource centre in Moray. There followed the establishment of a Grampian Health Board Working Group to put together proposals for improving cancer and palliative services in Moray and look at issues around setting up of a day hospice.

Macmillan Cancer relief raised £2.2 million, which covered the cost of 'establishing' The Oaks Palliative Care Day Centre. Upon completion of the building in 2003, The Oaks was 'handed over' to NHS Grampian, which has full control and management of the day centre. The Moray Hospice Steering Group, then became known as Friends of The Oaks.

The Oaks opened on 2nd June 2003 and officially was opened by HRH Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay on 5th August 2003.

The Oaks Aims and Objectives are:

• To develop further the existing supportive and palliative care services for Moray, focusing on enabling people with cancer and other progressive illnesses to live as independently as possible in their own homes and communities.
• To reduce the need for admission of patients to hospital.
• To provide special palliative care in a day unit setting.
• To provide other care and treatments in an out-patient setting.
• To be actively involved in the rehabilitation of patients, where appropriate.
• To provide a range of activities to suit individual needs and abilities.
• To provide psychosocial & spiritual support to patients and their carers.
• To provide access to specialist staff, including medical, nursing and AHPs.
• To offer respite to carers.
• To improve communication and liaison between Primary Care and Specialist Palliative Care
• To provide information on cancer to patients, their carers, the general public and health care professionals.

Location

The Oaks is situated in its own grounds approx 1/2 mile from Dr Grays Hospital on the main A96 towards Inverness. Click here for a map of the area.

The Oaks is on the Elgin/Inverness bus route with a bus stop adjacent to the Unit. From the Elgin direction you will have to cross a busy carriageway.

The train station is 1.7 miles from The Oaks. Taxis are available to and from the Unit.

Published: 23/03/2021 12:39