Hospiscare launches website

SIDMOUTH Hospiscare now has a website. The organisation, based at Keel House, May Terrace, has launched the site to tell people more about what its volunteers do in the Sid Valley. It has been created by someone within the organisation to minimise costs.

Secretary Carrie Machin said a presence on the internet was vital. “We have realised that people don’t understand our role within the area, and hopefully the site will help with that,” she said. “We want people to find out what we do, where we are, what our aims are and how we can help.

“Many people supported us when we were in Waitrose’s green token fundraising scheme and we now hope they will be able to see why their support really matters.”

The organisation helps people with life threatening illnesses. The team comprises four nurses, a secretary, and volunteer trustees who manage all aspects of Sidmouth Hospiscare, making sure it runs smoothly and remains in good financial condition. Carrie, who has been working there for three years, said: “Many of our patients are suffering with cancer and our aim is to take a holistic approach, helping them and their families cope with what can be a difficult and traumatic time.

“We think it is important for people to understand what role we have in the community and hopefully we can continue to help people in the Sid Valley get as much support as they can when they are facing such difficult times.”

Volunteers’ tasks include helping the bereaved and sitting with patients or their carers and many drive patients to hospital appointments. With an average of 60 to 70 patients on its lists at any one time, the organisation is always keen to recruit new volunteers. To find out more, call volunteer co-ordinator Mavis Browning on (01395) 513581 or Carrie on (01395) 578707. Visit www.sidmouthhospiscare.org.uk to find out more about Sidmouth Hospiscare, its service, history and team.