Hannah volunteers her time as a Ward Companion at St Raphael’s, offering support and kindness to patients staying with us on the ward. She shares her experiences of the role and explains why a good death is everything.
As a Ward Companion, I offer a listening ear and a lending hand to patients, carers and families. A short visit can provide practical and emotional support, comfort and a sense of normality.
A peek into my day
I am always happy walking into St Raphael’s. I have volunteered at the charity for nearly three years and it is incredibly rewarding. No day is the same, as every person I meet is different. Some patients want a good laugh. Others may share their life stories or speak of their fears to help lighten their load. Some may prefer solitude in that moment. I get to know patients and families who are happy to connect with me. For one lady I brought in ice-creams she told me were her favourite. For another gentleman, I sat at his bedside chatting about life or quietly holding the space beside him. There are young patients on the ward too, some with young families. The children are our greatest teachers with their resilience. When I finish for the day, I am fulfilled and look forward to returning. It is a role that continues to teach me and inspire me in my own life.
What volunteering has taught me about life and death
Within the safe space of this wonderful charity, death is understood and it’s dignified. Being at the Hospice is like a deep exhale of relief for patients and their families – knowing they are looked after by a specialist team with personalised care. They can talk freely about their fears, grief and personal wishes. A good death is, in fact, everything.
Why volunteering matters
Volunteering is an important contribution to the Hospice and the community and it’s an inexpressible privilege to be there for people when it matters most. I love that Ward Companions can be from all walks of life; all they need is compassion. At a bedside, all social barriers fall away. It’s simply about the core values of wanting to care for people, connect and give back where we can.