Volunteering at Bristol Hospice
Hospice volunteers bring comfort, companionship, and kindness to patients and families during a meaningful time. At Bristol Hospice, volunteers are valued members of the care team who support quality of life through presence, listening, and practical help.
This page is for people who want to understand what it is really like to volunteer in hospice and how volunteers can make a real difference.
Volunteer Opportunities in Hospice Care
Volunteer roles can vary by location and community needs, but the goal is always the same: to support patients and families with compassion, respect, and reliability.
- Patient Companionship offering conversation, reading, music, or quiet presence
- Family Support giving caregivers a brief break and providing reassurance
- Administrative and Community Support helping with office tasks, events, or outreach depending on local needs
What Volunteering Feels Like
Many volunteers describe hospice volunteering as quiet, meaningful, and deeply human. You are not expected to have all the answers. Your role is to show up with kindness and respect.
Volunteers are supported by the hospice team and work alongside nurses, CNAs, social workers, and chaplains, with guidance on how to be helpful and appropriate in each setting.
Day to Day Activities
Day to day activities may include visiting with patients, providing companionship, assisting with small comfort focused tasks, or supporting families based on the care setting and volunteer role.
Volunteer activities are always guided by training and supervision, and you will never be asked to do tasks outside your role.
Training, Schedule, and Commitment
Volunteer schedules are flexible and vary by location. Training and orientation are provided so you feel prepared, supported, and confident before you begin.
Many volunteers choose a consistent weekly or monthly schedule to support continuity and stronger relationships.
Team Culture and Support
Volunteers are appreciated and respected. The team communicates clearly, provides guidance, and makes sure you have support when questions come up.
This environment allows volunteers to focus on being present and helpful in ways that truly matter.
Explore Volunteer Opportunities
If you want to volunteer in hospice and support patients and families with compassion and presence, we invite you to explore volunteer opportunities with Bristol Hospice.
Apply to Volunteer
Bristol Hospice and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity employers.