Empathetic, informed and practical support

A proud new initiative to Hospice Southland is our volunteer driven ‘‘Community Support’’, providing empathetic, informed and practical support to Hospice patients and their families to ensure they feel physically and emotionally supported during their terminal illness and bereavement.

‘‘This programme is an important step in further deepening our connection within our community and supporting families in the Southland and Wakatipu Basin.’’

Our volunteer coordinator Robyn Bye who spearheaded this campaign is passionate about providing Community Support volunteers visit with patients who reside in their homes, in a rest home, or in one of our six inpatient facilities.

These volunteers provide support and companionship, sometimes reading to patients, playing board games, or simply engaging in quiet conversation.

We provide a robust training program for our Community Support team to ensure their wellbeing and ability to provide the specialist care we pride ourselves on.

‘‘It takes a special type of person to just sit and listen without prejudice or input’’

The Hospice Southland Community Support group is a proud new volunteer-driven initiative at Hospice Southland.

Robyn said, ‘‘This programme is an important step in further deepening our connection within our community and supporting families in the Southland and Wakatipu Basin.’’

Volunteers are at the very heart of Hospice Southland and without them we simply would not be able to run.

Our volunteers come from all backgrounds, and give incredibly valuable support across a wide range of different

activities. All volunteers help us provide the highest possible level of care for our patients and their families and carers.

So you’re reading this thinking why should I volunteer?

There are multiple reasons why you should, you get to learn and develop your skill set, make new friends and enjoy like minded companionships and you get to give something back to the wider community.

Hospice Southland is hugely proud of our amazing volunteer base, we’re pretty biased, we think we have the best around! We are always on the lookout for openminded, enthusiastic and committed people to volunteer with us and support our work. We want volunteering to be a rewarding experience and provide full training to help you get the most out of your role!