The first step in setting up a specialist hospice at home volunteer service for the Dyfi Valley has been hailed a success after a number of volunteers signed up to the scheme – and there are hopes that it could be up and running in early 2019.

The Hospice at Home Aberystwyth Volunteers service, set up by former Bronglais Hospital consultant Alan Axford, held a meeting at Machynlleth to find volunteers to expand the service into the Dyfi Valley.

Ten volunteers attended and they will now go through formal interviews, DBS checks and training to take part in the service, which offers support to terminally ill patients, their carers and families.

Dr Axford said: “The public meeting went well and there was clearly a desire to establish a service similar to the one HAHAV has achieved in Ceredigion, using volunteers to support those in the community of Machynlleth and the Dyfi Valley who face the challenges of life-limiting illness.

"Ten people have expressed a wish to be a volunteer and this number may well rise as the proposed service becomes more widely known. The next step will be an informal interview with each potential volunteer, DBS checks, and training.

“I anticipate that this will be achieved in the next two months and will take place in Machynlleth. It should be possible to have the service in place by the new year.

“Powys University Health Board and Severn Hospice, who provide the palliative care nursing service in north Powys and are partners in this venture, are very encouraged by the public engagement so far.”

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