Compassionate volunteers needed for unique roles in palliative care

VMCH is recruiting for a group of special volunteers to support people in their final stages of life.
Our new palliative care service, O’Neill House in Prahran, is the first of its kind; offering older people with the opportunity to die peacefully, surrounded by family and friends.
The 22-bed home, due to open in June, has been specially-designed for residents and families to spend time together, reminiscing and creating new memories. Pastoral Care Practitioners will be there to provide comfort
and spiritual care for the resident and their families at what is a very difficult time.
We are looking for compassionate and caring people to volunteer non-clinical support, care and practical help for residents and their loved ones.
 Are you a retired hospitality worker who could help with tea and coffee making or baking?
 A florist who could spend some time arranging beautiful flowers?
 A talented musician who could play calming and uplifting music?
 A keen sewer who could mend clothes?
 A tech-savvy person who could assist with downloading cherished family photos?
These are just some of a huge variety of roles which will help enrich a resident’s life before they pass away.
We understand the role could be confronting, so Pastoral Care Practitioners will be onsite to provide support whenever necessary.
Maree Gilbert is one of 16 VMCH Pastoral Care Practitioners whose role involves supporting individuals, their families and the VMCH community through the end of life journey. She looks at palliative care as “a privilege
not everyone gets”.
“Sudden and unexpected death does not give us the opportunity to say our goodbyes. In my role I hope to support the dying and their families to journey through this time with a sense of not being alone.”
If you, or someone you know, would be interested in this unique and fulfilling role, please call 1800 036
377 or email volunteers@vmch.com.au