Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice, situated in the heart of Headingley, Leeds, is a cornerstone of compassionate care for individuals facing life-limiting conditions.
Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice recently celebrated National Volunteers’ Week by hosting a special event to thank the dedicated individuals who generously give their time to support the hospice’s essential services.
Volunteers from both the hospice and the local Sue Ryder Grief Kind Space gathered for an enjoyable afternoon tea, complemented by some fun, relaxed games. The gathering provided a wonderful chance to recognize and appreciate the remarkable contributions volunteers make to Sue Ryder.
Fiona Bairstow, Healthcare Volunteer Coordinator at Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice said:
“I would like to say an enormous thank you to each and every one of our amazing volunteers. The role they play in the hospice’s work is essential, everyone at Sue Ryder is so grateful to them all for so generously giving their time. Our volunteers make a real difference – offering their skills, time and a friendly face when it’s needed most.
“Volunteering with Sue Ryder means joining a team committed to providing compassionate support and comfort to people. There are many ways to get involved, whether you’re looking to give back to your local community, meet new people, or be part of something deeply meaningful. We would love to hear from you.”
Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice delivers a range of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of patients and their families:
Inpatient Care: The hospice features an 18-bed inpatient unit staffed by a multidisciplinary team, including Sue Ryder Nurses, consultants, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and complementary therapists. This team collaborates to manage pain, alleviate symptoms, and offer emotional and practical support.
Community Services: A dedicated community team provides specialist support in patients’ homes, ensuring continuity of care and assistance with symptom control, medication, and therapeutic treatments.
Day Therapy Services: These services aim to support individuals in being cared for at home for as long as possible, offering access to necessary services and expert care, along with practical and emotional support.
Living Well Programme: This initiative includes sessions designed to educate and promote independent self-management of conditions and symptoms, covering topics such as breathlessness, fatigue, anxiety, and sleep.
Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice is currently looking for volunteers to support several key areas:
Gardening.
Maintenance.
Complementary therapies, with a particular need for massage therapy and Reiki.
Collecting patient experience feedback.
Reception support.
Fundraising roles, including helping with events and general activities.
Anyone interested in volunteering can learn more by contacting Fiona Bairstow at fiona.bairstow@sueryder.org
