Volunteer - Palliative Care Program

Volunteer Palliative Care Support Volunteer

Overview

We are seeking compassionate, reliable, and dedicated volunteers to join the SCHC Palliative Care Program. This role supports individuals living with life-limiting illness and their caregivers by providing one-on-one emotional, social, and practical support. Volunteers play a vital role in enhancing quality of life, reducing isolation, and offering a consistent, caring presence during a deeply meaningful time.

This position is well suited for individuals with experience in one-on-one client care and an interest in community-based, client-centred support.

Application package

• Resume
• A Valid Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)

How to apply: please send us an email at volunteerprogram@schcontario.ca with your resume and VSC.

Responsibilities

Commitment & Availability

• Ability to volunteer 3 hours each week.
• Commit to supporting clients consistently over an agreed-upon period.
• Be reliable, punctual, and respectful of scheduled visits or calls.
• Maintain some flexibility in availability based on client and program needs.
• Attend all mandatory training prior to client matching.
• Participate in ongoing training, supervision, and debriefing as required.
• Communicate regularly with the program coordinator regarding availability or concerns.

One-on-One Client Support

• Provide compassionate emotional support and companionship to palliative clients and, where appropriate, their caregivers.
• Offer active listening and a supportive presence while respecting client wishes, values, and boundaries.
• Support clients in a non-clinical capacity and respond sensitively to emotional, social, and spiritual needs.
• Observe and report any concerns or changes to the program coordinator in a timely manner.
• Recognize when additional supports or referrals may be required.

Technical & Administrative Skills

• Comfortable using phone, email, and virtual platforms (e.g., Zoom) as required.
• Complete basic documentation such as visit logs or feedback forms, as requested.
• Follow SCHC scheduling, documentation, and communication protocols.

Confidentiality & Ethical Standards

• Uphold strict confidentiality of all client and caregiver information.
• Adhere to SCHC policies, values, and ethical guidelines.
• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and respect for diverse lived experiences and end-of-life journeys.
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times.

Mandatory Training (Provided & Required Completion)

Volunteers will receive comprehensive training to ensure they feel confident and prepared for their role. The following training is mandatory and provided by SCHC:

• HPCO (Hospice Palliative Care Ontario) Training
• SCHC Palliative Care Volunteer Training
• Additional role-specific orientation and ongoing education as required

Requirements

• Ability to volunteer 3 hours each week.
• Background in one-on-one client care (e.g., caregiving, support work, peer support, or community services).
• Educational or professional background in health care, social work, social services, or a related field.
• Preferably some experience working independently in the community or in an unsupervised setting.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to provide compassionate support.
• Comfort supporting individuals and families facing serious illness and end-of-life concerns.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment while following program guidelines.
• Commitment to client-centred, respectful, and dignified care.

Why Volunteer With SCHC

By volunteering with the SCHC Palliative Care Program, you will make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families during a vulnerable time. Your presence, compassion, and reliability help provide comfort, connection, and dignity when it matters most.