On behalf of everyone who is going to die
Companions, with their skills and knowledge, provide the opportunity for a person in their last year of life to be involved in decisions around their care. We make them aware of the choices that exist, and how to put things in place.
No formal experience or qualifications are necessary other than wanting to harness your natural compassion The service is funded by the NHS and all training and support is completely free.
In return we ask for a commitment of time of about 1 hour per week.
If you’re ready to become a companion or have a question about getting involved, fill in a training application form, or ask a question here.
Become a Companion
Companion Volunteers: Join us to feel empowered with skills to support choices in end of life care and make a profound difference in the lives of those nearing life’s end.
Companion Champions: as a statutory worker within the health or social care sector, train with us to enhance your professional skills, and feel part of the teams wrapping compassion around our patients.
Become a Companion Volunteer
Offer skilled support to individuals in their last year of life, enabling essential choices to be made that would otherwise remain unknown
Please join us if you live within the Ipswich East Suffolk region, and have time and compassion to support people with information in their last year of life.
Become a Companion Champion
Enhance your professional skills in healthcare or social services by joining us as a Champion, where you’ll apply your training to support end-of-life care within your work and community.
In your role as a Compassionate Champion you can support your patient/client/resident to express their wishes for care at the end of life using advance care plans.
You will have the skills to then ensure those wishes have been reviewed and signed off by the individual’s GP and uploaded onto the individual’s medical records; that the ReSPECT form has been returned to the individual and is stored in the yellow folder; and that everyone involved with her/his immediate care is aware of the choices that have been recorded.
Empowering You to Make a Difference
We provide comprehensive training and ongoing support to ensure you’re prepared and confident in your role. From understanding emotional needs to navigating end-of-life conversations, we’re with you every step of the way.
1. Orientation
An introduction to our ethos, journey so far and the vital impact of volunteer contributions.
2. Comprehensive Training Program
Interactive training including skillful listening, compassionate conversations and advance care planning .
3. Practical Experience
Tender conversations and facilitation of ReSPECT forms under guidance to apply and hone new skills.
4. Continued Support
Regular support sessions and service clinical team access ensure volunteer resilience and growth.
5. Feedback and Growth
Constructive feedback sessions foster personal development and enhance care quality.
"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others."
Mahatma Gandhi
Our Upcoming Events
Explore and join our upcoming events to connect, learn, and contribute to our compassionate community.
Talks & Presentations
Discover insights into end-of-life care with our engaging series of talks and presentations. Hear from experts, seasoned volunteers, and community leaders discussing important topics that shape compassionate care.
These sessions are crafted to educate, inspire, and connect attendees, enriching our community’s commitment to dignified support for all.
Upcoming or current Talks & Presentations
Training
Join our relaxed and informative training program, designed to empower new volunteers with the skills and knowledge to provide compassionate support to individuals and families during the end-of-life journey.
Training comprises 2 full days, in person, for both volunteers and statutory workers; volunteers then have a further morning session online, to cover the essentials on safeguarding and confidentiality.
This comprehensive training covers essential aspects of non-medical palliative care, active listening, and the emotional, psychological, and spiritual support needed to enhance the quality of life for those we serve. Through a blend of theory, hands-on activities, and reflective practices, participants will emerge ready to make a significant difference in their communities.
Upcoming or current Trainings
September 2025 training session
- Training
Training takes place at Kesgrave Community Centre (KWMCC), Ipswich – please click on link below for KWMCC contact details:
Peer Group Meetings
Volunteers meet together with the clinical team every fortnight for Compassionate Companions to share experiences, challenges, and triumphs encountered on their journey of providing end-of-life care. This supportive gathering offers a space for our volunteers to reflect, learn from each other, and foster a deeper sense of community and resilience.
Whether you’re a seasoned companion or newly trained, this meeting is a valuable opportunity to connect with peers who share your commitment to compassionate care.
Upcoming or current Peer Group Meetings
Peer Group Meeting via Zoom
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Peer Group Meeting via Zoom
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Peer Group Meeting via Zoom
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Peer Group Meeting via Zoom
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Peer Group Meeting via Zoom
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Peer Group Meeting via Zoom
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Peer Group Meeting via Zoom
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Peer Group Meeting via Zoom
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Peer Group Meeting via Zoom
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Peer Group Meeting via Zoom
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Peer Group Meeting via Zoom
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Peer Group Meeting via Zoom
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Special Events
Join us for Special Events throughout the year, such as the annual Dying Matters Week. These unique occasions provide insight into specific end-of-life themes, featuring special guest speakers and meaningful activities. Each event is a chance to learn, connect, and celebrate life, offering support and understanding in the journey of end-of-life care.
Whether you’re a seasoned companion or newly trained, this meeting is a valuable opportunity to connect with peers who share your commitment to compassionate care.
Upcoming or current Special Events
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- Special Events
Meet some of the team in Stowmarket – 7 Market Place, Stowmarket, IP14 1DY.
Find out more about who we are, what we do, and why do it!
We’ll be there to answer any questions you may have.
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- Special Events
Meet some of the team in Needham Market – Exact location to be updated.
Find out more about who we are, what we do, and why do it!
We’ll be there to answer any questions you may have.
Past Events
Peer Group Meeting via Zoom
- Peer Group Meeting
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Your Questions Answered
Have questions about volunteering, the training process, or what to expect? Find answers here to some of the most common queries we receive, helping you to take the next step with confidence.
Volunteer Process
How do I apply to become a volunteer?
👉 Compassionate Companion Training Application Form.
The first step in becoming a volunteer is attending a 2.5-day in-person training session. After submitting your application, we’ll get in touch to arrange a short Zoom conversation to answer any questions and make sure the role is a good fit for you.
If you need any help with the form or have questions about the training, you’re welcome to contact us at
📧 bill.thompson1@nhs.net.
What are the requirements to become a volunteer?
No specific qualifications are needed, just a compassionate heart and the willingness to support others. We do ask for a commitment of about an hour a week when available.
We provide all necessary training to prepare you for the role.
Can I choose my hours or commitment level?
Yes, we understand the importance of flexibility. As a guide we ask for a commitment of at least 1 hour a week to visit and support the person you will be matched with.
The amount of time spent with a person varies and can be mutually agreed by both the companion volunteer and the individual you are supporting.
This may involve weekly face-to-face contact between the volunteer and the individual; however this can often vary in terms of regularity and with the option for some contacts to be managed by phone, or video.
Training & Support
What does the training program involve?
Our training is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to offer compassionate support confidently.
Volunteers
The training course for volunteers is a bespoke two and a half day programme delivered by a qualified clinical team comprising GP, clinical nurse specialist, and clinical assistant, alongside highly experienced companion volunteers.
This includes an online session to cover safeguarding issues; this is mandatory for all volunteers (with an update required every 3 years.); and an enhanced DBS check is also part of the enrolment process.
Statutory workers
Training takes place over two days alongside the volunteer attendees.
Compassionate champions are staff members that are already employed across the health and social care sector within the ESNEFT area (ie domicillary and care home care workers, care coordinators, therapists, nursing staff, medics etc).
As a compassionate champion you will have the confidence and the skills to facilitate advance care planning including documentation on ReSPECT forms with your clients/residents/patients in the last year/months of their lives.
Is there ongoing support for volunteers?
Continuous and regular support for all our companions is provided via:
– fortnightly 1 hour peer group meetings via Zoom for shared learning and evaluation
– private Whatsapp companion group for service updates, reflections, and comments etc
– contact with clinical lead team
– clear information regarding sign-posting when required
– informal ‘buddying’ between volunteers
Volunteer Experience
What kind of support will I be providing?
Companions learn tools to help individuals and their families navigate the challenges of the end-of-life process. Using skilful listening techniques companions elicit choices, preferences and wishes of the individual that might otherwise remain unknown.
Can I volunteer if I work full-time?
Yes. Many of our volunteers have full-time jobs.
We value your willingness to help, and we can discuss what level of capacity you have to offer to ensure volunteering is manageable alongside your other commitments.
How does our service support volunteer wellbeing?
Companion wellbeing is our priority. We support each other with regular meetings to ensure everyone is heard, feels valued, supported, and part of our compassionate community.
Ready to Make a Difference? Get in Touch!
We’re so glad you’re here.
If you’re interested in becoming a Compassionate Companion, you can now apply directly online using our
Training Application Form.
The first step is attending a 2.5-day in-person training session. Once we receive your form, we’ll be in touch to arrange a relaxed Zoom chat and answer any questions you might have.
If you’d prefer to reach out first or need support with the process, feel free to email us at
bill.thompson1@nhs.net or use the contact form here on the right.