Marie Curie - Home Companions

Monday - Friday

Companion volunteers are available to support anyone with a terminal illness aged 18 or over and their family. The service is usually only offered for 12 months, typically for people in the last year of life.
How does it work?
Someone to have a chat with over a cup of tea, help you get to an appointment or run an errand, or just be there to listen when you need a friendly ear. Companion volunteers can be there for you for exactly these things.
Once we've got to know a little bit about you, your interests and your needs, we'll match you with a trained, dedicated volunteer. They'll spend up to three hours a week visiting you at home or talking with you over the phone.
It's up to you how you spend your time with your companion - you might just want to chat or there might be something practical your volunteer can help you with. The service is entirely based around your needs
What are the benefits of having a Companion at home?
Everyone's different, but when we talk to the people we support, these are the benefits of having a Companion they mention most often:
Companionship and emotional support - Our volunteers provide a friendly ear - someone to talk to about whatever's on their mind.
Practical Help - Companion volunteers can attend appointments with clients, help with shopping, everyday tasks and help with phone calls on the client's behalf.
A break for families / carers - Our volunteers can sit with clients to allow carers/family to take a break for a few hours.
Information on further support - Our volunteers can look at other support or services available in their area. Companion volunteers can be available for up to three hours a week and can also provide support over the telephone.
How to refer to the Marie Curie Companion service - We welcome referrals from health and social care professionals. Patients/ family/ carers can also refer into the service.

Times and availability

Age Range: 18+

Free service