Time Commitment:
* 2-6 hours per week
* To be arranged mutually
Help make a difference and create meaningful moments for patients and those important to them
We are looking to expand our existing team of volunteers who work alongside the clinical team to help enhance the experience of patients, and those important to them, during their time on the ward.
In this role, you will help provide companionship, emotional reassurance and meaningful engagement for patients who may be experiencing loneliness or isolation. You will also support patients to access our mobile trolley shop service and help ensure the trolley remains stocked, tidy, and ready for use.
Sometimes this may involve offering a friendly chat, supporting a simple activity, accompanying a patient to the garden, or simply sharing a smile and a reassuring presence. Small moments of connection can make a meaningful difference to patients and families during difficult times.
This volunteer role complements the work of the clinical team and contributes to creating a warm, welcoming, and compassionate environment for patients and visitors.
What You’ll Be Doing
* Supporting the mobile trolley shop service by helping keep the trolley stocked, clean, organised, and ready for use, and by accurately recording items sold in line with hospice procedures.
* Engaging with patients in a friendly, empathetic, and supportive manner
* Offering companionship and meaningful engagement activities based on individual patient interests and abilities. This may include accompanying patients to the gardens or day services (where appropriate), helping patients access photos on their phones, completing word puzzles, writing letters, or watching television or sporting events together
* Understanding that patient needs and wellbeing will vary from day to day, and that sometimes the most meaningful support is simply offering a calm and reassuring presence
* Helping patients and those important to them access information about other hospice services, where appropriate
* Reporting any concerns or changes you notice to the nursing team
* Working within the boundaries of the volunteer role and following hospice guidance, training, and confidentiality requirements
* Treating all patients, visitors, staff, and volunteers with dignity, respect, and compassion
Who We’re Looking For
* Someone with an understanding of the hospice environment and an awareness of, or experience relating to, life-limiting illness
* Someone who is emotionally aware and able to support people in potentially sensitive or emotional situations
* Someone with a cheerful, compassionate, and empathetic approach
* Someone who understands the importance of confidentiality and maintaining appropriate professional boundaries
* Someone who is comfortable working as part of a wider multidisciplinary team
* A good listener who is patient, kind, and respectful of individual needs and preferences
* Someone who is reliable and able to commit to agreed volunteering shifts where possible
* Applicants must be aged 16 or over. Support and guidance will be provided to help volunteers feel prepared for the inpatient environment.
What’s in It for You?
* The opportunity to be part of a friendly and supportive team
* A rewarding and meaningful role where you can use your existing skills and develop new ones
* Training, guidance, and ongoing support to help you feel confident in the role
* Opportunities to learn more about hospice care and the support we provide
* Reimbursement of agreed travel expenses, subject to hospice guidelines and criteria
What You Can Expect from Us
As a volunteer, you can expect:
* To be treated fairly and equitably in line with hospice values
* A clear understanding of your role and responsibilities
* Appropriate training tailored to your role
* Ongoing support and guidance
* The resources and equipment needed to carry out your role
* A safe environment that respects health and safety
What We Ask in Return
We ask our volunteers to:
* Reflect the values, goals and standards of Ashgate Hospice
* Place patient care at the centre of everything you do
* Follow our Health and Safety Policy, Volunteer Policy, Code of Behaviour and Volunteer Handbook
* Participate in relevant training and development
* Seek support when needed
* Carry out duties professionally and safely
Join us and help make a meaningful difference to patients and families during an important time in their lives.
Important Information
* Volunteers must be aged 16 or over
* All volunteers are required to attend:
o Voluntary Statutory Training (3 hours)
o Ashgate Hospice Induction (3 hours)
* Local role-specific training will be provided
* Confidentiality around patient and hospice information is essential
* This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check due to direct patient contact
Interested?
Please apply via our website and feel free to attach your CV or supporting information to tell us more about you and the knowledge, skills and experience you can bring.