Why Does Dougie Mac Need You?
Volunteers are absolutely vital to the work of Dougie Mac Hospice. Without them, we simply couldn’t continue to provide or fund our essential services. The commitment, care, and enthusiasm of our volunteers help us support people across our community when they need it most.
Dougie Mac provides free adult palliative care and support across North Staffordshire and Stoke‑on‑Trent. As part of this, our Community Support volunteers help patients and those who care for them in practical, meaningful ways.
The Community Buddy Volunteer Role
As a Community Buddy, you will support patients and carers in their own homes, offering help, companionship, and reassurance.
What You’ll Be Doing
Providing respite support for carers and patients
Visiting patients or carers regularly in their homes
Offering companionship and emotional support
Listening to worries and concerns
Helping people feel heard and maintain their independence
Signposting to other agencies and sources of support
Assisting with day‑to‑day tasks such as:
Collecting prescriptions
Shopping
Light housework or gardening
Laundry or ironing
Making a meal
Providing “me time” by:
Sitting with the patient so carers can take a break
Taking a carer or patient out for a short time
Tasks vary depending on the patient — not all activities will be required.
Please note:
Community Buddies are not clinically or medically trained and will not:
Provide medical or clinical advice
Assist with personal care
Administer medication
Provide emergency care (other than calling an ambulance if needed)
What Skills Will I Need?
Compassionate, friendly, and approachable manner
Good communication skills
Reliability and good time management
Ability to volunteer independently
Respect for confidentiality and boundaries
Your Support
Line Manager: Patricia Hamilton, Carer and Patient Support Service Co‑ordinator
Essential Health & Safety awareness training provided
Time Commitment
Ideally 2–3 hours once a week
Flexible times to suit your availability
What Will I Wear?
Smart casual clothing
Volunteer badge provided and must be worn at all times while volunteering
If you have a few hours to give and want to make a genuine difference to patients and carers in your local community, becoming a Dougie Mac Community Buddy could be a rewarding way to help others when it matters most.