Some of our volunteers have been short-listed for a prestigious charity award.
The 12-strong team of Dementia Community Companions could become the Volunteer Team of the Year at the 2019 North West Charity Awards. 
Each member of the group spends at least two hours a week as a companion to someone with the early stages of dementia.
Their work has earned the admiration of everyone connected with the Hospice and now their selfless dedication has been recognised through a nomination for this award.
We will find out whether they have won at a special ceremony in Manchester on Friday, September 27.
Volunteer Co-ordinator Helena Smith is extremely proud of the project and those who have made it such a success.
Helena said: “It’s a wonderful service, set up as part of our carers’ well-being programme, and I’m delighted that our committed volunteers have received this deserved recognition.
“It may not be a medical or clinical role, but in its own way is just as important.
“The volunteers’ role is to give the person living with dementia an opportunity to do normal activities in a safe environment.
“Our team enjoy the company of others and are caring and compassionate. As well as resilience, they have a good sense of humour and not all of them have previous experience of working with people with dementia.
“Our volunteers are from all walks of life and I’m proud to say that some manage to work with people with dementia while working full time.”
Helena would like to add to the team if more volunteers feel they can help. 
She added: “The role is one of friendship. The volunteer doesn’t provide personal care but concentrates on making a real difference to the life of their companion.
“Knowing that their loved one is in the care of someone who is well-trained and supported, and who wants to be with them, helps the carer to concentrate on their needs and to get back to being themselves again for two or three hours a week.
“The responsibility for care often falls on the husband, wife or children and this led us to our goal of making a real impact on the education and support of the carers, allowing them to look after themselves so the person with dementia can ‘live well with dementia.’”
* Contact Helena on 01625 664984 or email hsmith@echospice.org.uk or complete the online application form
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