The aim of the volunteer project awards was to enable hospice volunteers to initiate projects which would improve the quality of care given to patients, families or carers in the hospice community, as well as enhancing the fulfilment of the volunteer.
Priority was given to applications from volunteers from under-represented groups and to projects which will benefit people with different or unusual needs.
Examples of projects funded
A time for reflection
Willowbrook Hospice, Merseyside, was awarded £595 for a volunteer project called 'Celebration of Life Boxes/Books'. The day therapy team leader of the hospice explained the idea behind the project.
“Volunteers and staff at the hospice provide extensive pre-bereavement support to the patients. When a patient dies it has a profound effect on the other patients, staff and volunteers. In light of this it was decided that we needed to openly explore the feelings of patients. This could be described as a process of reflecting on that person’s life. Sessions are always ended on a positive note asking 'How will you remember that patient?' The impact of this is incredible and, although the sessions are sad, what is evident is that the discussion has been a celebration of life."
"Patients have commented that this is the first time they have been able to honestly speak about death and their fears, and also reflect on life."
"Our concern, and the impetus for this project, is whether we have provided the opportunity for dying patients to also celebrate and/or reflect on life. We have identified the need for patients to be given the opportunity to share in this practice. This can take the form of a book or box containing sentiments, photographs etc, or anything the patient can use to reflect on”.
Creating an archive
St Luke's Hospice, Harrow, was awarded £1,500 to establish a photographic and sound archive. The project aim was to archive a growing collection of over 4,000 photographs to be used in publicity and fundraising activities. The collection also provides a record of how the community's needs have been met by the hospice.
Supporting bereaved children
St Andrew's Hospice, Grimsby, was awarded £1,000 to support costs of activities and a newsletter. The project aim was to launch the 'Tiger club' to address issues that children and young people may have in expressing grief and coming to terms with loss of a close family member.
