Palliative Volunteers

As end of life approaches it is reassuring to know there are volunteers who are willing and able to spend time with a person in their last weeks, days or hours. A volunteer can read to a client, talk about end of life wishes, play music, help a person share memories and reminisce, or simply be quietly present.

Volunteers can also provide respite time for family members who need some time away from the bedside to attend to personal needs, catch up on sleep, or spend time with other family members. The focus of all care is to provide dignity, personal choice, and quality of life for all people who are completing their life journey.

The Volunteers who are a part of this program have completed a 20-hour training program, have signed a confidentiality agreement, completed a criminal record check and an interview with the coordinator. Additionally, the Greater Trail Hospice Society provides ongoing education and support for all of its Volunteers.