A group of young people involved with a charity which supported them after a close family member was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness held a special barbecue to say thank you and farewell to their inspirational social worker, Emma Speedy.

Emma has been working with young people at St Michael’s Hospice since 2014. In 2017, the charity Hope Support Services began working with St Michael’s to deliver Hope at St Michael’s. Emma played an essential part in developing and initiating ways to give young people a voice after their lives had been turned upside down by a loved one’s illness.

Morgan Price first met Emma four years ago after her dad was diagnosed with cancer.

“As a group, we wanted to do something special to show our appreciation for all Emma has done. She has been amazing. She genuinely cares and having someone who will listen when you feel very alone is something that I have appreciated.

“She has been there every step of the way for me, through some very dark and traumatic times and her support has helped me to grow as a person. I will miss her very much and wish her every success in the future job working as a supervising social worker.”

The Hope at St Michael’s service is available to anyone aged 25 and under who has a close family member diagnosed with a serious illness. The services provided by Hope, which is based in Ross-on-Wye, include age-appropriate clubs, school holiday activities and one-to-one support.

To find out more about Hope Support Services, or the ways you can support the charity, call 01989 566 317 or visit hopesupport.org.uk