Can you spare 2 to 4 hours once a week or fortnight or month?

Southern Adelaide Palliative Service are looking for volunteers to assist in the Laurel Hospice ward area of our service.

People and families living with a life-limiting illness, can experience social isolation. You can build a trusting relationship with someone and have no agenda that gives them time and a safe place to just be themselves.

Do you have? A Desire to Help Others with a genuine motivation to making a positive difference in patients' lives by offering emotional and practical support. Empathy and Compassion with an interest to provide care and comfort, helping patients feel understood, valued, and less isolated. An Interest in Healthcare with a passion for contributing to the overall well-being of patients A Passion for Personal Growth with a desire to develop interpersonal skills, increase empathy, and gain valuable experience in a compassionate and healthcare-oriented role.

We would love to have you on board our team to enhance patient experiences and supporting their emotional and mental well-being.

Activities may include but are not limited to: Emotional Support: Engaging in friendly conversations, listening to patients, offering companionship, and providing a comforting presence. Assisting with Activities: Helping patients with gentle activities such as reading, playing games, letter/card writing, jigsaw puzzles or music to enhance their mental stimulation. Tea/Coffee Rounds: Offering refreshments and cake ensuring patients have access to water, tea, or other drinks to stay hydrated and comfortable. Comfort Care: Offering small comforts like quilts, adjusting pillows, or ensuring their environment is peaceful and relaxing. Support for Family: Providing a friendly face for family members, offering reassurance, or answering basic questions about patient comfort.

These tasks aim to improve the emotional and physical comfort of patients while supporting the healthcare team.

Laurel Hospice ward volunteers will be provided with supportive training, orientation programme, and educational sessions. They will also have buddy sessions before commencing the role on their own.