STAFF and volunteer at Coventry’s hospital are raising awareness of a companion support service for dying patients.
A team of 19 specially trained Support for the Dying volunteer companions at University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) are offering their services to patients in the last days of life and their families.
The companions sit with, talk, read to and even sing to, patients as well as working closely with the staff on the ward to give compassionate support and comfort, listening to the patient and communicating any worries to staff.
Kristine Horne, Head of Voluntary Services, said: “We’ve had a great response to the service since it started in June 2016, and the team have supported more than 100 patients.
“We’ve had really heart-warming compliments from relatives and staff, who have commented on the importance, and benefits, of the service.
“We’ve had volunteers sing to patients and hold their hand to comfort them at the end of their life.
“Our compassionate volunteer companions offer vital support to our patients in the days and hours of their life.
“The volunteers also support the families providing periods of respite and reassurance for them knowing that their loved one is not alone.
“We are interested in hearing from other dedicated individuals who are interested in volunteering at their local hospital, and have lots of different roles available.”
Email [email protected] or call Kristine Horne, Head of Voluntary Services on 02476 96 5146 to find out more about volunteering at UHCW.
