Volunteers and other community-based palliative care services
Volunteers are a valuable resource and can often be accessed through local palliative care services, community nursing services, local government authorities and religious, cultural or community groups.
Most specialist palliative care services select, train and supervise volunteers through structured programs, and they should be treated as professional colleagues. The involvement of volunteers enhances awareness of care at the end of life in the broader community.
A wide range of community organisations offer support to patients (both adults and children) and their families. Disease-based groups provide information, material aids and support meetings (eg Cancer Councils, National Heart Foundation, Motor Neurone Disease Australia)1.
Community supports such as Meals on Wheels Australia, home help and home care packages can be accessed through community or government agencies, charitable organisations or private agencies. Community groups (eg religious groups, cultural groups, veterans’ groups, service clubs) may also provide various forms of assistance.
Other service providers who are prepared to visit patients at home can be valuable (eg massage therapists, hairdressers). The local palliative care service may be able to provide information about these services.