All our programs and services are offered free of charge to allow timely and easy accessibility to those that need them. Our selected and trained volunteers provide emotional and practical support to individuals recently diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, to those with a chronic or terminal illness, their families, friends and other care givers and persons recently bereaved. Services are delivered in hospital, facility, or in home. You are not alone.
Vigils
Phone service is available between 8am-8pm by Hospice volunteers to supplement the efforts of family and friends with a vigil for the dying person. Our vigil volunteers can be called out to be present during the last days and hours of life. After-hours vigil services are also coordinated as needed. Usually recommended by nursing staff, for vigil requests please call 250-537-6411.
Grief Support
Our services are available to all Salt Spring Island community members. We provide in-person counselling to individuals, families, youth, children and groups. We offer information and education as well as referrals where appropriate.
The Grief Support Program is led by experienced facilitators. It provides six sessions twice each year to those who are past the first stage of their grief. Our next Grief Support Group will be coming soon. Please contact our office by phone (250-537-2770) or email to get on the list.
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of this group as it is with all hospice activities. An affordable donation is suggested.
Mintos Program
Trained Volunteers have a daily presence at Lady Minto Hospital afternoons, Monday to Friday. We have nicknamed our visits, WALKABOUTS. Our purpose is to offer gentle touch and emotional supportto any patient needing it, as directed by the nursing staff on duty.
Volunteer Visiting
Volunteers offer their time to visit with individuals in need of someone to talk to about their experiences, share memories, read, and provide a kind presence. Often it is difficult for individuals to share their feelings, thoughts, and spiritual philosophy with loved ones and friends in light of their situation. Companion Volunteers offer a confidential and kind-hearted presence where the person lives: home, hospital, or other residence in the community.
How Do I Arrange for a Hospice Volunteer to Visit?
Anyone can make a referral to Hospice — you, a family member, caregiver, friend, physician or other health care professional.
When you contact Hospice, a coordinator will arrange to meet with you and/or your loved one to discuss the type of volunteer that will best suit your needs and establish a suitable visiting schedule.
Advance Care Planning (ACP)
Advance care planning is about having conversations with your close family, friends, and health care provider(s) so that they know the health care treatment you wish to have, or refuse, if you become incapable of expressing your own decisions. Writing down beliefs, values and wishes for future health care is an advance care plan. This may also include additional legal documents.
An advance care plan is a choice that will help alleviate some of the stress your family and friends could face if they are asked to make important health care decisions for you. With an advance care plan they will be better able to act on your behalf.
