Hear from our care service volunteers

Cathy has been a befriender volunteer for over five years. In her role, she supports patients by providing companionship, helping them to shop or visit favourite places, assisting with small practical tasks or offering respite for their family.

“I just love befriending. I get such a lot out of it including a real sense of satisfaction that I am helping people at the end of their lives, whether that’s by supporting the carer or the patient. It can be very isolating for those looking after a relative who is so ill and it means a lot to them to be able to get out and about.”

Cathy was later matched with Dot, who was referred to Sue Ryder Palliative Care Hub South Oxfordshire after her lung cancer symptoms started to get worse and she required specialist care at home. Her nurse soon began to notice how isolated Dot was, and she ended up referring her to the hub’s befriending service for some extra support.

Cathy adds, “I really enjoy coming to see Dot, and our relationship has developed to a lovely place where we know each other very well now.”

They’ve enjoyed lots of time together, going for tea and cake at local coffee shops, visits to garden centres and even a bit of retail therapy.

“Befriending has made every difference in the world to me,” says Dot, and Cathy knows all too well the powerful connection they’ve made.

“She has been through a lot of trauma in her life and sometimes she’ll just ring me for a chat or to ask me a question,” says Cathy. “The time that you can give to someone when they need it is so valuable.”

If you’ve been inspired by Cathy’s volunteering journey, you can get in touch and register your interest via our volunteer quick apply form.