Volunteer - Companion - Edinburgh Hospice

Companion Volunteer - Make a meaningful difference

Be the reason someone feels seen, heard and less alone.

At Marie Curie, we know that living with a terminal illness can be incredibly isolating, not just for the person affected, but for those closest to them. Simple human connection can make an enormous difference.

We are looking for compassionate volunteers to join our Companion Service, offering emotional support and presence to people in your community who are approaching the end of life.

This isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being there.

As a Companion Volunteer, you’ll spend time with someone on a regular basis, listening, sharing conversation, or simply sitting quietly together. Your presence can bring comfort, ease loneliness, and help someone feel cared for and understood during a deeply challenging time. For families and loved ones, your support can also provide reassurance, knowing that someone is there who genuinely cares.

The impact of this role is profound. What might feel like a few small hours to you can mean everything to someone else.

You don’t need professional experience - just kindness, empathy and reliability. We’ll provide training and ongoing support to help you feel confident in the role.

Why it matters

At the end of life, connection matters more than ever. By giving your time, you can help ensure that no one faces this journey alone - and that dignity, comfort and compassion are at the heart of every moment.

 

What you’ll do:

• Visit someone in your local community on a regular basis
• Offer a listening ear, companionship and emotional support
• Be a calm, reassuring presence

Why you’d be a great fit:

• Patient, empathetic, and a natural listener
• Kind and courteous towards others
• Calm and grounded during sensitive moments
• Happy to give 3 hours a week to support someone locally
• Comfortable completing a short phone call about your visit and occasionally using email

What you can expect:

• Encouragement and support every step of the way
• Genuine appreciation for your time
• Peer Support sessions
• In person training with drinks and refreshments provided
• A sense of meaning and purpose
• Recognition for your time
• Travel and expenses reimbursed
• Access to discounts on shopping, dining, travel and more

 

Want to know more before applying?

Find out more about our Companion Service here or contact Volunteer Services Officer Clare Scott E: [email protected]