About Mel
Mel volunteers at Modbury Hospital and Lyell McEwin Hospital with Northern Healthcare Volunteer Association. She provides support and comfort to patients and their families during their end stage of life. Providing emotional support to patients as well as non-client facing support to the team, by organising supplies, stocking equipment and sorting the cleaning room area.
Mel shares how volunteering in palliative care offers numerous personal benefits and rewards. ‘The ability to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life brings a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose’.
Q&A Interview:
Disclaimer: The views expressed are the opinions and thoughts of our interviewees, reflecting on their own experiences and views.
As a volunteer in palliative care, my role involves providing support and comfort to patients and their families during a challenging time.
Emotional Support occurs through offering a listening ear and companionship to patients and their families. Sometimes, just being there and providing a comforting presence can make a significant difference.
Listening and communicating in meaningful conversations, can be a source of comfort. Being present and respectful of the patient’s wishes and needs.
I also assist with organising supplies, stocking equipment, cleaning common area.
An essential part of my role is ensuring that all interactions and information shared are kept confidential and handled with the utmost respect.
Even though I don’t have a medical background, I’m driven by a commitment to giving back to the community and a genuine interest in supporting individuals through their journey towards end-of-life. I was inspired to volunteer in palliative care due to a deep personal connection and a strong sense of empathy. Having witnessed a loved one’s journey, I realized the profound impact compassionate support can have during such a difficult time. Volunteering in palliative care allows me to provide meaningful support and make a difference in the lives of patients and their families.
Volunteering in palliative care offers numerous personal benefits and rewards. The ability to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life brings a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose. Witnessing the positive impact of my presence and support on patients and their families is incredibly rewarding. I am able to build connections and relationships with other volunteers and health care professionals which has enriched my life on a deeper level
Volunteers provide companionship and a compassionate presence, which can help alleviate feelings of loneliness, fear and anxiety. This emotional support is crucial for both patients and their families during a challenging time. It is amazing how important it is to sit with someone, share a story, a cup of tea and a hug. For some patients they don’t have anyone in their lives, providing comfort and support creates a sense of security and can ease some of the emotional stresses which are associated with serious illness
The support I receive includes training and education, and guidance, from both the volunteer coordinator and the ward staff. Emotional support if needed, again from the volunteer coordinator and Employee Assistance Program. Recognition and appreciation is received through feedback from staff, other volunteers, patients and the volunteer coordinators.
Name Badges for all – the patients like knowing out name and sometimes forget.
If you’re considering becoming a volunteer in palliative care
and are not sure if this is the right area for you, reach out to the volunteer coordinator or another volunteer in palliative care. You will receive training so this will equip you with the knowledge required, so don’t worry if you don’t know a lot about palliative care. For me, I have set boundaries as I know that am mindful not to get burnt out as I won’t be helpful to myself, my family or the patients. Know your limits and seek support. It is also very important that you are professional, maintain confidentiality.
