Re: Rules and regulations too much?
Since I began working at a big local Hospice in the Day Care unit in 2001 these are the popular activities that have since been axed over the years:
Regular outings for fish'n'chips lunch...reason, too risky, need personal risk assessment in advance for everyone, plus written permission/ disclaimer from the cafe owner
Regular outings for cream tea at big local garden centre...reasons, see above
Flower arrangement demonstrations, with participation...reason, too risky, might cut themselves or prick a finger on a thorn
Cooking pancakes on Shrove Tuesday...reason, might get burnt
Table with second hand items for sale or exchange...reason, might be harbouring germs
Second hand books shelf...reason, might be harbouring germs
Bringing in cakes for birthdays and other special occasions...reason, all food must be professionally prewrapped
The Red Cross manicure volunteer is no longer permitted to cut or file or varnish nails...reason, someone might be allergic and tools aren't sterile
The volunteer Aromatherapist is no longer permitted to use Sweet Almond base oil...reason, someone might have a nut allergy
And so it continues.
To be honest it's heartbreaking.
And as one patient once said to me, "For God's sakes we're dying anyway!!
I love these folk for their humour!