• Simon Dein and Syed Qamar Abbas.
• Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow, Essex, UK. jenny.Lloyd@nemhpt.nhs.uk
• Palliat Med. 2005 Jan 1; 19 (1): 58-64.

ObjectivesThis study examined the stresses associated with hospice volunteering, ways of coping and perception of available support.MethodsTwo focus groups were conducted comprising 17 volunteers. The data obtained were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis.ResultsReported stressors included losing patients and dealing with disfigurement. However, informants generally reported the work as satisfying and generally stress-free. Coping strategies ranged from keeping a distance from clients, religious faith, to the realization that death was a merciful end and was not necessarily painful. Informants generally perceived support to be adequate.ConclusionsThe implications of these findings for training volunteers are discussed, especially the need to educate volunteers about the symptoms and signs of cancer.

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