Each year brings new challenges, demands, and expectations for our services to grow stronger. The past year was no exception. Despite financial pressures, recruitment challenges, and increasing demand for accessibility, I believe we can confidently say - mission accomplished. Every day, our teams tackle obstacles head-on, using a multi-disciplinary approach to ensure patient-focused care remains our priority.

It’s this teamwork, collaboration, and dedication across all our services and the community we serve that has enabled us to maintain 100% access to Inpatient Unit beds, clinical appointments, education, and the ‘little things’ that truly enhance our patients' quality of life.

The demand for counselling services continues to grow, with around 50 referrals each month through our two support streams - Patient & Family Support and Renfrewshire Bereavement Network. Thanks to a tiered system, our dedicated team ensures individuals receive the right support, at the right time, from the right person.

Their hard work has earned well-deserved recognition far beyond our community.

As I prepare to retire from my post at ACCORD, I reflect on my 28 years of working here. I am very proud to have worked for such a supportive organisation with amazing, and dedicated staff, in a physical and emotional environment that optimises what palliative care is all about.

Thank you all.

Brian Hunter

Clinical Services Manager