East Cheshire Hospice has recruited more volunteer chaplains who bring further comfort, conversation and compassion to patients.
Retired Baptist minister Chris Newton has undertaken the role for almost 10 years, supporting the work of nursing staff.
He spends Tuesday mornings at the Sunflower Living Well Centre having begun in the inpatient unit.
Several volunteers assist Hospice chaplain Marion Tugwood who saw a need for more help.
Chris got involved after moving to Macclesfield to live nearer daughter Sarah Dale who is a member of the Hospice’s senior team.
Hospice chaplain Marion Tugwood (third left) with volunteer chaplains (from left) Sharon Sephton, Margaret Coster, Chris Newton, Sarah Burrows and Darren Webb.
Chris said: “Some might think the chaplaincy role is going round spouting religion all the time but that’s not the case. I’m quite happy to go in there and just be a friend.
“I make it known that I’m part of the chaplaincy team and if they want to talk about some kind of religious aspect then I leave them to make the first move rather than forcing it on people.
“If they have a church background some will share experience of church life while others prefer to talk about anything and everything apart from religion.
“For some, Tuesday is the highlight of their week. They may live alone without seeing other people for the rest of the week.
“But being pampered at the Sunflower Centre with the opportunity to engage in conversations is quite meaningful and important for them.
“You get to know about their history, background, family and jobs.
“I enjoy listening to their stories, including those who lived through the war years as children and what life was like for them.”
Retired relationship therapist Sarah Burrows visits the impatient unit on the same day.
Sarah, from Prestbury, said: “No two days are the same because no two patients are the same. Everyone approaches the end of life in their own unique way.
Sarah Burrows with her Goldendoodles Mishka and Zara.
“People often ask whether the work is depressing, but nothing could be further from the truth.
“It’s a privilege to spend time with patients and families during such an intimate and personal journey, offering them the space to express their needs, their fears, or simply to share wonderful stories of life before illness took hold.
“I love nothing more than talking about life, death, and everything in between. There are days when I pray quietly and respectfully, and days when I laugh with patients until tears run down my cheeks.
“Above all, I treasure the opportunity to offer whatever comfort I can, in whatever way is needed, to help make the final days of a patient’s life as meaningful and peaceful as possible for everyone involved.”