When someone is diagnosed with a life limiting illness it affects the whole family. Sitting with someone who has Cancer, Parkinsons or Motor Neurone Disease can be a very challenging thing to do, especially if that person is close to death. This is why we want to raise £600 so that our volunteers can have the training they need which is vital to help them in their volunteer role, supporting people with life limiting illnesses and offering some time off and respite to their families. Over the years Respite at Home Volunteers have helped thousands of people who are unwell and this is what one patient said about her volunteer visitor:

'I am ill, my GP, District Nurse and Macmillan Nurse all give me excellent support. However, RHVolunteers gives me something very valuable, their time: Time to listen to my feelings which means that I do not burden my friends or family as often
Time to talk about any problems that I feel that my family may have in coming to terms with my illness
Time to visit me and spend time with me
Time to listen to my apprehension about the illness
Time to have a good cry and really laugh together
But most of all time to be a good friend'.

Respite at Home Volunteers has 20 dedicated and caring volunteers who sit with people with life limiting illnesses in the West Mid Beds and Ivel Valley areas. For two to three hours a week the volunteers offer the patient friendship and support at what is often a very difficult time in their lives. They also offer the family a chance to have some time off from the exhausting role of caring for someone they love. This allows the family time for themselves to go out see a friend, take up a hobby or just rest. The time our volunteers give to families is entirely free. RHV looks after its volunteers by making sure they have regular support meetings to discuss any issues and providing important training that allows them to continue their vital work within the local community.

Thank you for your support