AN INNOVATIVE hospice visiting scheme has been launched in a bid to reach out to isolated patients living in their own homes with life-limiting conditions.

Practical and social support will be offered by the St Teresa’s Hospice Volunteer Visiting project, which works with the Darlington organisation’s Hospice at Home team.

Volunteers joining the scheme will be urged to visit patients living away from friends or family who may need help with daily tasks.

The launch of the befriending service will also stand as a fitting milestone to mark the 30th anniversary year of the hospice Woodland Road-based hospice.

Nancy Spencer, 73, of Darlington, has signed up to be part of the scheme after volunteering at St Teresa’s Hospice for almost two decades.

“When I heard about this new scheme I knew straight away that it was something that I really wanted to be involved in,” she said.

“There are so many people out there, living on their own, who may never see anyone from week to week.

“Just giving up two hours a week to visit them, sit and have a chat or share a cup of tea, really gives them a boost and makes their day.”

Ten volunteers have added their name to the service which will see them receiving training before being paired up with a patient based on their individual needs.

Volunteer and former foster carer Helen Clyde, 42, of Darlington, said: “As volunteers we get as much out of visiting people at home as they do having us there.

“People may be ill but it’s about giving them a lovely day. We are led by the patient as to what they would like us to do, which may be helping them with their computer, taking them out for a while or just sitting and having a chat.

“It really does give you a sense of worth and it’s so uplifting to see the happiness a simple visit can bring.”

Helen Wrigley, St Teresa’s Community Hospice team leader, said: “People with life-limiting conditions, who live on their own, really do look forward to seeing a friendly face and having someone to talk to.

“Our community hospice has really grown and changed over the past 30 years and this is yet another way that St Teresa’s Hospice can help people live their lives to the full.”

Would-be volunteers can email enquiries@darlingtonhospice.org.uk or call 01325-254321.