Monday, 19 June 2017


 D & G Marie Curie Helper service

The Marie Curie Helper service is provided by trained volunteers who offer one - to - one support to people living with a terminal illness (cancer and other illnesses), 
completely free of charge.
This support may continue for their carers and families after bereavement.

Marie Curie Helper volunteers support people in their homes, offering a few hours
of their time each week to provide a listening ear and companionship
give families and carers a short break from their caring role; offer practical support,
such as accompanying individuals to appointments or simply going out for a coffee
or help with sourcing information on other available support.

A Marie Curie Helper does not provide any personal care, nursing or medical care or advice.

Our Helper volunteers are provided with training and support to enable them to undertake their role, and are subject to PVG & reference checks.

I currently have 27 volunteers cleared & available
and we have supported 27 people to date.

The areas which volunteers can cover currently are Dumfries town and surrounding area, Dunscore, Durisdeer, Irongrey, Ruthwell, Hetland, Crocketford, Springholm, Dalbeattie,  Kirkcudbright, Newton Stewart and Lockerbie.
Most can drive, and are happy to travel 20 minutes from home to meet their clients.

I have volunteers awaiting training later this year, so there are always new areas becoming available, please give me a phone to discuss.
The criteria for referral are that the person must be over 18, have a terminal illness (with 12 or less prognosis) OR they are the main carer supporting someone with terminal illness.

This is a new service for Dumfries & Galloway and we have been operating here since June 2016, although nationally has been running since 2009.

Referrals can be made by phone Monday to Friday 9.00-4.30 
on 01387 702105 or 0800 304 7691.

Susan MacRae, Helper service Manager for Dumfries & Galloway.

An assessment phone-call will then take place followed by a visit to take more information about the person, to enable a reasonable match with a volunteer to take place.




The Marie Curie Helper Service

is funded by Text Santa

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