Hospice seeks volunteers to combat loneliness in Lincolnshire patients

St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice is looking for volunteers to provide companionship to lonely patients.
LonelinessLoneliness
Loneliness

St Barnabas Hospice is appealing for volunteers from across Lincolnshire to share a few hours each month with patients who are experiencing loneliness or isolation.

The consistent companion service was launched by St Barnabas last October amid a growing recognition nationally that too many people experience the negative impacts of loneliness.

Two-fifths of all older people (3.9 million) say the television is their main company (Age UK, 2014). For those experiencing deteriorating health, these numbers can be even higher.

Lisa Gibson, Community Development Manager for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said: “Regular social contact is really beneficial to wellbeing, our fantastic volunteers make a tremendous difference in the lives of those they support.

“Spending a little time with someone on a regular basis can build resilience, help patients remain independent for longer and reduce the number of admissions to hospital.”

The charities volunteers will combat loneliness and help patients to remain connected to their communities by building positive and friendly relationships. Led by the patient, volunteers will offer companionship, support to access advice, a listening ear and in some cases trips out.

Lisa said: “The Consistent Companion service is all about preserving social contact and dignity through human kindness, and volunteers will find this role to be very personally rewarding. Our volunteers will gain valuable skills and hopefully enjoy the time spent with the patient.”

All volunteers will be subject to an advanced DBS check, training, and regular supervision.

Anyone interested in volunteering can contact Lisa Gibson on 01476 513557 or email [email protected]