We’re here to lend a hand (From Worcester News)

We’re here to lend a hand

2:20pm Wednesday 3rd October 2012 in News

AN innovative new scheme offering a helping hand to St Richard’s Hospice patients has started in Pershore.

The Hospice Neighbours scheme will see local people stepping in to support those living in their community with long-term illnesses, by helping them out with everyday tasks like doing their gardening or providing companionship.

The pilot project aims to plug the gap in provision between living at home and moving into a hospice.

During the scheme co-ordinator Catherine Colvin and a team of volunteers will offer patients and their families help with the important everyday tasks, which can become overwhelming when living with a life-threatening illness and a friendly ear.

Ms Colvin said: “For this pilot project the volunteer team will be working in Pershore and the surrounding villages.

"There is clearly a gap in provision where people want to stay at home as long as possible, independent and safe.

"It can become distressing for patients to see their garden overgrown, their dog not walked or their gutters overflowing and we hope Hospice Neighbours will help keep them as independent and as stress free as possible.”

If you would like to become a Hospice Neighbour contact Catherine Colvin on 01386 552725 or email colvin.colvin@virgin.net