Our new chaplain has musical talents

A NEW East Cheshire Hospice recruit says she’s looking forward to ‘wandering with purpose’, in her new job role.

Margaret Lillis, 68, is no stranger to the hospice wards having spent the last two years as a voluntary chaplain and a further two years working on the wards as a volunteer.

However, her new role as the hospice chaplain will bring her into closer contact with hospice patients and their families on a regular basis.

A former headteacher at St Paul’s Primary School in Poynton and schools adviser for the Diocese of Shrewsbury, Margaret says her role at the hospice usually involves more listening than talking.

“I’ve always been interested in the hospice movement and have visited a few throughout the country over the last three years”, she said.

“They are places where there is respect and kindness for patients and their families – where every day counts and where death becomes more natural and less scary.”

Margaret takes over the role from Andy Halstead, the previous chaplain, who is moving to West Yorkshire.

And like her predecessor, Margaret has been known to enjoy bringing one of her life’s passions to work – her music – and is often found with a guitar in her hands.

“I’ve always loved music and musicals, and now and then I get a chance to sing a song or two at the day centre,” she said.

As well as running monthly Time to Remember services, Margaret will also head up the small team of bereavement volunteers who visit families throughout the year.

“I’m most looking forward to getting to know staff and everyone here better and hope that I can help make this place one of comfort and hope for anyone who comes here,” said Margaret.