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. Our Helper 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 Helper volunteer – 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.

How do I get a Helper volunteer?

Our Helper 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.

You can contact us directly to get a Helper volunteer, or a health professional can refer you – talk to your GP, Community Palliative Care Team, hospital consultant or District Nurse.

Please note that Helper volunteers do not assist with personal and clinical care, formal counselling or regular domestic tasks.

What are the benefits of having a Helper?

Everyone’s different, but when we talk to the people we support, these are the benefits of having a Helper they mention most often:

• Companionship and emotional support. Our volunteers provide a friendly ear – someone to talk to about whatever’s on your mind
• Practical help. Helper volunteers can come with you to appointments or social events or help with small everyday tasks.
• A break for families and carers. Your carer may be able to take a short break while our Helper volunteer’s with you.
• Information on further support. Our volunteers can help you look into other support and services available in your area, such as finding a gardener or cleaner to help around the home.
• Bereavement support. Helper volunteers can also provide support to families for up to three months after bereavement. Read about Irene Maclean and her experiences as one of our amazing Helper volunteers.

If you would like to Volunteer for Marie Curie Helper in Somerset, find out more here.

Type of provision

Universal - This is for everyone, including people with special educational needs and disabilities