Pioneering Marie Curie Companions service at Musgrove Park secures extra funding to support more dying patients and families in Somerset

• Service secures extra funding until April 2017
• Nearly 200  dying patients and families have benefited from support since launch
• Companions will also support patients throughout Christmas

The innovative Marie Curie Companions service at Musgrove Park Hospital has secured extra funding to support dying patients and their families throughout the hospital until April 2017.

Since its launch in July 2014, 28 specially-trained volunteers have provided one-to-one support to 196  patients in their last days or hours of life, as well as helped their families, friends and carers with practical and emotional support.

Dr Tom MacConnell, consultant  cardiologist and end of life care lead at Musgrove, said: “I am delighted that funding for the Marie Curie Companions has been extended until April 2017. They have proved a much valued support to this very important group of patients and their families. Their presence in the Musgrove Team  has enhanced our holistic approach in striving for the best.”

Julia Bearne, Marie Curie project manager, said: “The reality for a small number of dying patients in hospital is that they may spend long periods of time alone or have little company. Some may have family present, but they can often feel overwhelmed and isolated themselves.  We know from feedback that the Companion volunteers offer much-needed comfort and support and enable hospital staff to enhance the care and support provided to patients and their families at a very difficult time.”

Gaye Glanfield, a Marie Curie Companion who will be supporting patients and families on Christmas Day, said: “'It is an honour and privilege to be able to give support to a patient and/or their families at this time in their lives. Companionship especially at Christmas is most important for all."

All Marie Curie Companions are specially-trained to enable them to provide emotional and practical support to dying patients and their families and carers across Musgrove Park Hospital. They also offer respite for patients’ families if they need to leave the patient and can signpost people to information and resources. Companions work on a rota and will be supporting patients, their families and staff throughout Christmas and New Year. 

The Marie Curie Companions service is funded by Marie Curie in partnership with Musgrove Park Hospital.