Volunteers bring compassion, comfort and connection across the Hospice. When Julie first walked into the Hospice, she didn’t know anyone, but she knew she wanted to make a difference in her community.
Julie first connected with the Hospice in 2022, when she donated a robotic dog in memory of her mum. During her mum’s final days, she had seen how much comfort and joy a robotic companion could bring. Donating one to the Hospice felt like a way of giving something back, helping others experience those same small but meaningful moments of peace.
But for Julie, that single act of kindness wasn’t enough.
Alongside a busy full-time job and family life, she felt drawn to do more. She started volunteering at our craft group, which helps people relax, support their wellbeing, and connect with others. She enjoyed making tea and coffee, chatting with patients, and gently building connections.
As a qualified Reiki practitioner and trained soul midwife, someone who offers emotional and spiritual support to people at the end of life, Julie brings a deeper level of care into her role.
Over time, she moved on to volunteering on our Inpatient ward, where she now sits alongside patients during some of the most difficult and vulnerable moments of their lives. Sometimes that means talking, sharing stories or laughing together. Sometimes it means gently offering Reiki, bringing a sense of calm, comfort and peace. And sometimes it means simply sitting quietly, holding a hand and offering reassurance without words. For many patients, that presence can turn an isolating moment into one of comfort and connection.
This is where my heart is. My day job is the day job, but coming here, even though it’s only for three hours a week, my soul feels right.
“If I can help, even in a small way, to make someone feel more comfortable or less alone, then it means everything.” Julie says
We’re incredibly grateful to Julie for choosing to give her time, warmth and empathy so generously. Her story is a powerful reminder that you don’t need a personal connection to the Hospice to make a meaningful difference, just a willingness to care.
Thinking about volunteering?
Volunteering is flexible, rewarding, and a meaningful way to give back. Whether you can spare a few hours or more, join people like Julie and make a difference in someone’s day. Find out more here or contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Lisa Rolls, on 01977 781483 or lrolls@pwh.org.uk.
