Volunteers from four palliative care volunteer services have been recognised for their outstanding achievements today, during National Volunteer Week and National Palliative Care Week.
Megan Asbury, Deputy CEO, Palliative Care NSW, and Kate Bowman, Manager, Volunteer Support Services Programme, presented the volunteers with certificates at a brief ceremony held at the Art Gallery of NSW.
“We know that the comfort and companionship volunteers provide is such an important part of supporting a person facing a life-limiting illness. It’s a challenging space to work in but volunteers face it with incredible strength and kindness.
“They bring comfort and dignity to those in need, and their efforts remind us of the power of human connection and empathy. They offer not just help, but warmth, compassion, and a listening ear, making a world of difference every single day. It’s not an easy job, but it’s a profoundly important one.” said Megan.
The four volunteers receiving certificates today were:
- Karen Jaques, Sydney Local Health District – Concord Hospital
- Karen van der Schaar, HammondCare Health Volunteer Services – Neringah Hospital
- Joanne Clarke, Sacred Heart Biography Service – St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney
- Paul Hayes, SWSLHD Palliative Care Volunteer Service – Bankstown and Liverpool Hospitals
“These certificates of recognition are a small token of our gratitude. It is a way to acknowledge the hard work and big hearts of these special palliative care volunteers. We recognise their time, commitment, and effort, and extend our heartfelt appreciation for the wonderful work they do.” said Kate.
Felicity Burns, President, Palliative Care NSW has also recognised the important role of volunteers:
“I would like to take a moment to highlight the invaluable contributions of palliative care volunteers. During National Palliative Care Week, it is crucial that we recognise the pivotal role volunteers play in enhancing the quality of life for patients diagnosed with a life-limiting illness and their families and carers. The offer of companionship, emotional support and practical assistance provides a significant sense of comfort and reassurance to those navigating an often complex journey. Beyond the direct support volunteers provide to patients they also offer much needed respite to families and caregivers. This support may include running errands, preparing meals, or simply offering a listening ear, enabling families to focus on spending quality time together. Furthermore, volunteers serve as advocates for patients wishes and preferences, ensuring their voices are heard, autonomy respected, and dignity maintained throughout their palliative care experience.
This palliative care week please join me in thanking our volunteers for their incredible contribution to palliative care, their compassion, empathy, and dedication enabling us to better care and support those facing a life limiting illness.”
Following the ceremony, all four volunteers attended the Premier’s Volunteer Reception held in the Art Gallery’s new building.
Find out more about Palliative Care Volunteering in NSW and our Volunteer Support Services Programme by clicking HERE
Photo: (L – R) Kate Bowman, Joanne Clarke, Paul Hayes, Karen Jaques, Karen van der Schaar, Megan Asbury