• Helena Coleman, Andy Sanderson-Thomas, and Catherine Walshe.
• Previously of The Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK.
• Palliat Med. 2022 Apr 1; 36 (4): 671-679.

BackgroundMuch palliative care provision relies on the support of volunteers. Attention is paid to the risks to professionals providing care, such as stress and burnout, but understanding if this is an issue for volunteers is little understood. It is important to understand the impact their role has on volunteers emotional well-being.AimTo explore the experiences of palliative care volunteers and how the role impacted on their emotional well-being.DesignInterpretative phenomenological analysis, with data collected through semi-structured interviews.Setting/ParticipantsVolunteers in patient-facing roles within palliative and end-of-life care services in the UK.ResultsVolunteers (n = 10) across three palliative and end-of-life care services. Four themes were developed: (1) it can be challenging; (2) it's where I'm meant to be; (3) managing death; (4) the importance of connection. Challenges included frustrations and questioning themselves. Although difficult at times, volunteers expressed the importance of the role, doing well and that they benefitted too. They also had to manage death and discussed beliefs about life and death, acceptance and managing patients' fears. Connection with the hospice, patients, staff and other volunteers was important, with a need for everyone to feel valued.ConclusionsAlthough there are psychosocial benefits for volunteers in their role, it is important to understand the challenges faced and consider ongoing support to help volunteers manage these challenges. This could be addressed through the consideration of coping mechanisms, further training and reflective practice for volunteers.

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