News

A unique opportunity has become available for anyone with an interest in end-of-life care to get involved with the design of a new community-based palliative care volunteer service.

Fiona Sivyer from Palliative Care NSW (pictured) has been working closely with the specialist palliative care nursing teams on how to better support people living with a life limiting illness, their families and carers.

“It’s a common misconception that palliative care is only required for terminal care at the very end of life. In fact, the opposite is true. Palliative care is all about supporting people who have been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness to live well for as long as possible,” says Fiona.

“Enlisting the help of volunteers is a great way to provide compassionate and confidential support, especially in rural and regional areas where access to services can be a challenge,” she says.

Fiona is now turning to the locals and asking for their input into the design of future services.

“A community-based palliative care volunteer service should reflect the needs and wishes of the community. If you have any experiences of or interest in end-of-life care, we invite you to share your ideas with us at our Community Vision Workshops. Everyone is welcome,” says Fiona.

The Community Vision Workshops are being held in:

QUEANBEYAN – Wednesday 12 February between 3:30 – 5:00pm, level 2 conference room Queanbeyan Hospital

GOULBURN – Thursday 13 February between 3:30 – 5:00pm, Bourke St Health Service Day Centre

For more information or to RSVP please contact Fiona at [email protected].