Volunteer Program
Volunteers provide a 'rich mosaic' which they bring to their work with the dying.
The Society is responsible for palliative care volunteers in the ACT. Currently there are 120 volunteers who are able to bring their life experiences, energy and skills to assist with the support of patients and their families who are receiving palliative care. All new volunteers undertake a comprehensive initial training program to provide them with the knowledge, confidence and compassion to care for the dying.
The retention rate for volunteers is very high, and training usually occurs every two years. If required, training can be more frequent. Although there is a waiting list to volunteer with the Society, we would be pleased to hear from anyone interested in this unique way of volunteering.
We value, respect and treasure our volunteers
Volunteers may choose to work in:-
- Inpatient facility roster at Clare Holland House
- Residential aged care facilities
- Home-based palliative care.
- Society Council
Needed
This poem reflects the needs of patients and the response by volunteers:
by Father Joe Mahoney,
Reprinted from The Centre for Living with Dying Training Manual, 1993
A strong, deep person
Wise enough to allow me to grieve in the depth of who I am
And strong enough to hear my pain without turning away.
Not too close,
Because then you couldn't help me to see.
Not too objective,
Because then you might not care.
Not too aloof,
Because then you could not hug me.
Not too caring,
Because then I'd be tempted to let you live my life for me.
I need someone who believes that the sun will rise again, but
Who does not fear my darkness
Or my walk through the night.
Someone who can point out the rocks in my way
Without making me a child by carrying me
Someone who can stand the thunder and watch the
Lightning and believe in a rainbow.