Sobell House is a hospice providing expert care and support to those suffering with advanced, progressive or life-limiting illnesses, and to their families.

Sobell House’s ethos is that it commits to listen and work in partnership with each patient so that their unique situation and individual preferences can be understood. It also aspires to help patients to achieve the best quality of life in whatever time remains.
 

Head of voluntary services, Rebecca Norris, said: “Sobell House has an enormous 450 volunteers who undertake a multiplicity of roles each week.

"Volunteers do a wide range of things from offering their time to the charity shops, as volunteer drivers, receptionists, gardeners or within the Sobell House day services. Each Sobell House volunteer plays a crucial role in supporting the work of the hospice in the most engaging way”. 


“Sobell House asks that each volunteer commit at least 12 months of time to their role, in general volunteering once a week. There are however many more volunteers who have been with Sobell for far longer, for example one volunteer has volunteered within the day service for 27 years.”


Sobell House volunteer Erin Drazich says of her experience: “Volunteering with Sobell House has allowed me to find that sense of community and oneness that comes from helping others. It is a privilege to volunteer here and to be able to give back in a way that really matters.”


Without volunteers Sobell could not provide such high quality personal and compassionate care to patients and their families.

Volunteers who are able to listen sensitively, and give their time patiently, support patients and families to express what they would like when they are ready.

A patient of Sobell House had this to say of their experience of volunteer support: “They have all been such a massive help to me over the last 11 months. They have really helped me with living my life”.
 

The Sobell gardens are kept vibrant by a volunteer team who are always seeking new members and volunteer drivers ensure patients can access services in a way which might relieve the pressure of arranging transport at a stressful time.


Could you help Sobell House? We are looking to recruit new volunteers for roles across the hospice.  There are many opportunities, on different days and times. Sobell House provide a structured induction programme which includes communication skills training to presentations about palliative care or shadowing with experienced volunteers.  Travel expenses are available.
Visit www.sobell-house.org.uk or call Rebecca Norris on 01865 225868 or at rebecca.norris@ouh.nhs.uk