A VOLUNTEER service that provides “emotional support and a reassuring presence” to people experiencing end-of-life care is expanding across Somerset – and needs people prepared to help.
End-of-life care charity Marie Curie’s Companions service will expand to cover community hospitals across the county – including community hospitals in Bridgwater, Burnham, Crewkerne, Frome, Minehead, South Petherton, West Mendip, Williton and Wincanton.
For almost 10 years, a small but dedicated team of volunteer Marie Curie Companions have helped patients and their families at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton.
Now, thanks to a new agreement between Marie Curie and Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, the service will roll out to other hospitals.
Karen Burfitt, Marie Curie associate director strategic partnerships and services south west, said: “Being admitted to hospital can be a scary and overwhelming experience, for both patients and their families, especially for those nearing the end of life.
“Our wonderful Marie Curie Companions sit alongside patients, keeping them company, talking to them, or simply holding their hand.
“Not only is this a great comfort to the patient, but also to families who can arrange for a Companion to visit their loved one at a time when, for whatever reason, they cannot be there themselves.”
Vicki Burgess, a ward sister on Eliot ward at Musgrove, added: “The Marie Curie companion service is so important to all the patients we care for at the hospital, especially for those elderly patients we care for on Eliot ward.
“The companions give their time and patience to sit and chat with our patients when they are at their most vulnerable.
“We’re so excited that the service is now being extended to our community hospitals, which will mean even more patients will be able to benefit from this wonderful care.”
To support the expansion, Marie Curie is now seeking compassionate individuals to join its team of volunteers in Somerset.
People are being urged to volunteer with the Marie Curie Companions
Marina Parrett is one of the Marie Curie Companions who volunteers at Musgrove, along with her Pets as Therapy dog, Dudley.
She said: “My role as a hospital companion has involved sitting with a patient and being there for them, it may involve listening, sharing a story, holding a hand or simply letting them know you are there and that they are not alone at what may be a frightening or lonely time in their life.
“The experience is often humbling, or it can be enlightening, being there at a time to offer support to someone, their family member or friend is rewarding as is the visit that can bring a smile to someone’s face.
“I often think this is what I would want especially if nearing end of life.
“I did check with Dudley, he enjoys the kind greetings he gets, and comfortable space by the bed where he can snuggle down and concentrate on being a follower of peace and relaxation.”
Julie Draper, Marie Curie volunteer coordinator, said: “Volunteering as a Marie Curie Companion is a unique and rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of patients and their loved ones.
“Volunteers will receive comprehensive training to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to provide high-quality support.
“If you’ve got some time you could spare and would like to make a real difference to people at the end of their lives, then please consider getting in touch. We also have some voluntary roles you can do over the phone from home.”
To find out more about volunteering as a Marie Curie Companion, contact Julie Draper, Marie Curie volunteer coordinator, by emailing Julie.draper@mariecurie.org.uk, or call 07921 278893. For more information on Marie Curie Companions, visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/companions.
Hi,I recently read about the companions for end of life care in the Somerset Gazette. which Marie Curie provide.Please can you email me details/requirements etc.as I think this is a wonderful service in which I would like to be involved.I am a retired SRN,aged 75…..am I too old?
Thank you.