FAQs

What do volunteers do?

Volunteers usually visit a client and/or their carer once a week to provide good neighbour support, a listening ear and companionship.

What training do volunteers have?

Our volunteers receive at least 16 hours of training which follows the guidelines of Palliative Care Victoria’s training manual. They also receive ongoing training throughout their period as a volunteer.

Topics include:

  • Palliative Care and Compassionate Communities

  • Volunteering

  • Diversity

  • Communication skills

  • Spirituality

  • Illness and Care 

  • Dying and death

  • Grief and Loss

  • Self-care

What is a life-limiting illness?

A life-limiting illness is a term used to describe an incurable condition that will shorten a person's life, though they may continue to live active lives for many years. Sometimes it is described as a terminal illness.

What is palliative care??

It is an approach that improves the quality of life of patients and their families facing the problems associated with life-threatening / life- limiting illness, through the prevention and relief of suffering by means of early identification and impeccable assessment and treatment of pain and other problems physical, psychological and spiritual. This is a frequently asked question?

Is there a cost?

No, the support that Compassionate Hearts provides is completely free.

However, we are dependent on receiving donations and grants so if you would like to contribute.