"It gives a real connection to people..." - Paul's story
“It gives a real connection to people and a sense of perspective on your own life” – Paul’s volunteer story
“Volunteering at Trinity is an incredibly wonderful experience – I meet inspiring people from all walks of life,” says Paul – an experienced actor who chooses to give a few hours of his time each week to Trinity.
Paul came to Trinity via a transatlantic recommendation... he was in New York studying Zen Buddhism and contemplative care when a close friend recommended Trinity as a place where he could continue learning when back in London.
He started out helping in Trinity’s Inpatient Centre and now supports Trinity at Home, our service providing an extra level of intensive nursing and practical help to enable people to die in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes, if that’s their wish.
Paul says his role is about listening and giving the help and support people want. “Some people share their fascinating life stories, some people want to talk about death and dying – everyone is unique and different.”
Training from Trinity’s nurses has helped Paul to manage difficult conversations and understand boundaries. His training also covered practicalities such as oxygen cylinders and wheelchair use.
“It is such rewarding work, the fact that you are able, however small, to make a difference to someone’s life,” he says. “It gives you a real connection to other people and a sense of perspective on your own life.”
