CANCER Council NSW is looking to recruit volunteers to work at the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute in Coffs Harbour.

The volunteers are primarily based in the chemotherapy treatment room where they chat with patients, family and carers and offer support, as well as providing them with information about Cancer Council services.

“We are looking for volunteers who are ‘people people’, positive, respectful and with good communication skills, who are happy to take the time to listen to people and direct them to Cancer Council services and information,” Louise Jeffs, Cancer Council NSW told News Of The Area.

“Those undergoing chemotherapy are experiencing a difficult time.

“Not all patients have friends and family who can be by their side and so the volunteers can provide companionship.

“Just a cup of tea and a friendly chat or laugh can make such a difference to a cancer patient.”

This is not a counselling role, it is a role that helps to link patients and carers to relevant information, support services and resources.

Dave Funnell started volunteering with Cancer Council at the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute in 2016.

Dave said he enjoys having the time to talk with the patients and family and give them a cuppa.

The patients say they enjoy interacting with the volunteers.

One patient, Robyn, recently called Cancer Council to say thank you to the lovely volunteers in the Treatment Room.

“Dave always makes me laugh and that is really something as I am usually not feeling very well,” she said.

“He has such a great sense of humour.

“Thank you to all Cancer Council volunteers.”

The feedback Louise receives from the volunteers is that they enjoy their work, they find it rewarding and like working with the staff at the Cancer Institute.

“It is a privilege to have the conversations with patients and hopefully help the time they have in the Treatment Room go a little faster,” said one volunteer.

The volunteer roles are available between 10am and 3pm on weekdays and can be half or full shifts.

Louise said volunteers would ideally be available on a weekly or fortnightly roster.

Training on Cancer Council services is provided.

If you would like to find out more about the role, please call Louise on 6659 8414, email louise.jeffs@nswcc.org.au or visit https://volunteers.cancercouncil.com.au/engagement/?id=91dfb25e-b3ce-ed11-a7c7-002248933b28

Applications close Monday 24 April 2023.

By Andrea FERRARI