Saint Catherine’s team member shortlisted for national award
A member of the Saint Catherine’s team has been recognised on a national stage after being named a finalist in the Palliative and End of Life Care Awards 2026.
Marie Couch, activities coordinator at Saint Catherine’s, has been shortlisted in the Ancillary Worker Award category, which celebrates individuals who go above and beyond to create meaningful experiences, promote wellbeing and contribute to outstanding person-centred care.
The nomination recognises Marie’s dedication, creativity and commitment to helping patients and families make precious memories during their time at Saint Catherine’s.
Marie originally joined the hospice as part of the occupational therapy team. Through her passion and initiative, she began developing activities and events that brought comfort, connection and joy to patients and their loved ones, helping to shape the role she now holds today.
One of Marie’s most touching initiatives was the creation of the hospice’s Christmas Bauble Service. Families who had lost a loved one while receiving care as an inpatient at Saint Catherine’s were invited to a special remembrance service held in the Sanctuary.
Another example of Marie’s dedication to creating meaningful moments came when a patient shared a simple wish: he wanted to watch his children play on the beach.
His family had never experienced a day by the sea together, so Marie worked with colleagues to help make it happen. Thanks to the generosity of a member of staff, who kindly offered the use of her beach chalet, the family were able to spend precious time together by the coast, creating memories that will be treasured forever.
More recently, Marie organised a special ‘Pizza Night’ experience for patients and their loved ones on the In-Patient Unit. The evening transformed part of the hospice into a restaurant setting, complete with table service, live music and freshly made pizzas cooked to each guest’s choice of toppings.
Marie said: “My role is about creating opportunities for people to be themselves, not their diagnosis. Whether that’s helping a family make precious memories at the seaside, creating keepsakes that provide comfort after loss, or giving patients the chance to enjoy a special evening with loved ones, my aim is always to bring comfort, connection, dignity and joy when it matters most.”
The winners will be revealed tomorrow (Thursday, July 2) at the Hilton London Bankside.