Marie Curie has announced the expansion of its Marie Curie Companions service to community hospitals across Somerset, offering companionship, emotional support, and a reassuring presence to patients and their families.
For almost a decade, the dedicated team of volunteers has brought hope and comfort to palliative and end-of-life patients and their families at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton. With the new agreement between Marie Curie and Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, the service will soon be available at community hospitals in Bridgwater, Burnham, Crewkerne, Frome, Minehead, South Petherton, West Mendip, Williton, and Wincanton.
Karen Burfitt, Marie Curie’s associate director of strategic partnerships and services in the South West, emphasized the importance of companionship for patients and their families during their time in hospital. She highlighted the significance of the Companions' presence, stating that it not only brings comfort to the patients but also provides immense relief to families who are unable to be present with their loved ones.
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Vicki Burgess, ward sister on Eliot ward at Musgrove Park Hospital, expressed the significance of the Companions service for their patients. She conveyed the excitement about the extension of the service to community hospitals, acknowledging the positive impact it will have on more patients.
To support this expansion, Marie Curie is calling for compassionate individuals to volunteer and join the team in Somerset. Marina Parrett, a current Marie Curie Companion, shared her experience and the profound impact she has witnessed by offering support to those in need, along with her therapy dog, Dudley.
Julie Draper, Marie Curie volunteer coordinator, emphasized the unique and rewarding opportunity that volunteering as a Marie Curie Companion presents. She highlighted the comprehensive training and the difference volunteers can make in the lives of patients and their loved ones.
To find out more about volunteering as a Marie Curie Companion, please reach out to Julie Draper, Marie Curie Volunteer Coordinator, or visit the Marie Curie website for more information about the Companions service.