Salisbury Hospice is asking members of the community to consider giving the most valuable gift of all, their time and compassion by becoming a Bereavement Support Volunteer.
The Family Support Team provides 1:1 emotional support to relatives following the death of a loved one. The team is made up of four social workers, an administrator, and 20 trained volunteers.
The team is seeking additional volunteers to join the service.
Caroline Black, a social worker at Salisbury Hospice for 11 years, said, “We could not provide bereavement support as widely as we do without our volunteers.
"We learn from them as much as they do from us, and we are lucky to have such a cohesive and supportive team. It is incredibly rewarding work and a real privilege to be allowed into people’s lives when things are so tough.”
For many volunteers, the role has been transformative. Marilyn, who has supported the hospice for 22 years, remembers being drawn in by the advert’s words, 'No formal qualifications needed. More important are qualities such as compassion, maturity and the ability to listen.'
“Applying was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Every story is unique, and I have been humbled to get to know each person I’ve supported. This role isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about compassion, presence, and time. It has enriched my life deeply.”
Roger Green, another volunteer who has given 25 years to the hospice, adds, “As a society, we don’t really know how to deal with death anymore, but learning how to support people when they are vulnerable is incredibly worthwhile. People think a hospice is a sad place, but it’s full of laughter, kindness, and team spirit.”
Their words capture the essence of hospice volunteering, supporting people through life’s toughest times while finding strength, community, and moments of joy.
Salisbury Hospice is now looking for new Bereavement Support Volunteers to join the team. No special qualifications are required, just patience, empathy, and a willingness to listen. Full training and ongoing support will be provided.
Applications close on 31st October.
For more information or to apply, please visit www.salisburyhospicecharity.org.uk/vacancies/ or contact the Salisbury Hospice Family Support Team on 01722 425113 or sft.hospiceFST@nhs.uk
Joint Operation Targets Illegal Waste and Scrap Metal Activity Across the County
Familiar Faces Return as Wiltshire Creative Announce Panto Cast
Wiltshire PCC: 'Outdated police funding formula is failing Wiltshire communities'
Bongo Bingo invite Salisbury to Celebrate Christmas in a Wild Way
Alabaré thanks the community for supporting big weekend of fundraising
E-Bike Rider Suffers Serious Injuries following Collsion
New Special Constables join Wiltshire Police to support neighbourhood policing
Young Gallery launches botanical illustrations exhibition showing interactive work by Robin Tanner
