Published
2 June 2025

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It is very rewarding volunteering for St Christopher’s

After suffering her own loss of a loved one Sue realised that people often don’t know what to say when you’re going through bereavement.

“Until you’ve experienced a close bereavement yourself, you have no idea of the impact it can have on your life and how to get through what feels like a devasting loss.”

After suffering her own loss of a loved one Sue, who lives in Crystal Palace, realised that people often don’t know what to say to you when you’re going through bereavement.

“It’s a massive change in your life when someone close to you dies, like going through a gate and finding yourself on another planet, where only people who have been through it themselves truly understand the enormity of it all”.

Having a desire to understand more about grief led Sue to volunteer at St Christopher’s where she had training in listening skills, grief and loss. She now helps to facilitate the Bereavement Help Point in Sydenham.

The support Sue refers to takes place every week with up to 30 people coming to the group (some groups are smaller and there are online sessions too). Space and time are provided for people to talk about their experiences and to express their emotions.

“I think it’s an important skill to be able to face death and dying with strength and love and to know how to be alongside other people going through it. Volunteering at St Christopher’s has given me the opportunity to learn, share and be part of a community that cares about living and dying well. I work with a team of amazing volunteers and witness first-hand the power of peer support at the Help Point”.

Contrary to what people might imagine, Sue says, the sessions aren’t exclusively sad.

“It’s not all doom and gloom. There’s a sense of friendship, community and laughter too. Truly learning to listen to a person is powerful and provides space for healing to take place.”

Sue, who also works part-time managing an education charity, appreciates the support and training given by St Christopher to enable her to grow in this role.

“I’ve learned positive life skills and am comfortable listening to, and talking about, the process of death and dying with sensitivity and understanding of individual needs.

“Being part of a team is supportive. At the end of each session, the three of us volunteers have lunch in the café to chat about any issues. We write up notes and hand them over, knowing they will be used professionally”.

Sue has also enjoyed other volunteering roles at St Christopher’s. As a trained reflexologist she has helped out with the Wellbeing team. She has also helped to host groups of overseas visitors to share knowledge of St Christopher’s work. Additionally she recently contributed to the hospice’s research into assisted dying.

“It is very rewarding volunteering for St Christopher’s. There is a sense of purpose and with so many different roles there is something to suit everyone.

“I would certainly encourage others to volunteer at St Christopher’s. I’ve met some wonderful people. It’s empowering to realise that you can make a positive difference to others.”