EAST CHESHIRE HOSPICE Volunteer therapists offer the power of touch
THE power of touch is a secret weapon that is used by a team of qualified volunteers who work quietly behind the scenes at East Cheshire Hospice.
The eight volunteer complementary therapists deliver highly popular reiki, reflexology and massage sessions to patients, carers and families six days a week and their skills are in high demand.
The therapies are designed to help aid relaxation and reduce the symptoms of illness and medical procedures.
The popular therapy sessions either take place on the wards or in the Sunflower Centre for outpatients and their carers and they help with relaxation, ease stress and alleviate pain.
One of the therapists, 59-year-old former nurse Juliet Lee who has been working at the hospice for the past two years, says the value of such therapies is unquantifiable.
“Touch alone is a great healer and people benefit so much from such simple techniques,” said Juliet.
“Patients in treatment may have had chemo or radiotherapy and might be quite agitated and scared.
“They find enormous relief and comfort from the gentle touch of a hand or a foot massage.
“Often many of the patients are alone and the connection through touch brings a great sense of well-being,” she added. “I love doing this work and there’s nothing more uplifting than seeing someone walk out of the therapy room with a smile on their face after the treatment.”
Juliet and her fellow volunteers are highly praised by the hospice volunteer service co-ordinator, Helena Smith.
“The wonderful thing about our volunteers is that they are here because they really want to be here and they care so much,” she said.
“I’ve benefitted from some of the sessions myself when I’ve been unwell and can testify that they are really beneficial.”
The volunteer therapists are joined by three part-time therapists who work at the hospice throughout the week.
The entire team is led by Gill Black, lead therapist, who praises the professionalism of the complementary therapy team.
“It’s amazing how powerful the simple act of touching can be,” she said.
“We are so grateful that they give up their time to do this for the hospice.”
If you’re a qualified complementary therapist and are interested in spending a couple of hours per week making a difference to our patients and their carers and family members, then please email hsmith@ echospice.org.uk.
You could also call 01625 664984.