For nearly eight years, Michael Turner dedicated himself to his role as a hospital chaplain, providing comfort and support to patients and their families.
Recently, he decided it was time for a change.
“I thought about the aspects of the role I loved most and realised that I really enjoyed supporting the volunteers – the generous souls who give freely of their time for others,” Michael said.
I knew that I wanted to continue to work around such generous people.”
When he saw the job listing for Coordinator of Palliative Care Volunteers at Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD), he knew it was the right fit.
“I just intuitively knew that such a role was what I was looking for.”
“After applying and interviewing, I was the preferred applicant, and so began a new chapter in my career.”
While Michael’s role involves working within palliative care, his primary focus is ensuring volunteers feel supported in their work.
“I love interacting with patients, but for me, this role is an opportunity to support those who provide such meaningful work throughout our hospitals.”
“Of course, I did think that volunteers in palliative care would be very special people because end-of-life work is not for everyone.”
“Most of us have lost loved ones, and so the palliative care environment can be triggering, so it’s not for everyone.”
Auburn Hospital’s Palliative Care is a relatively new unit within WSLHD, providing essential services to the Western Sydney community.
“The unit’s primary focus is patient centred care, aiming to accommodate not only the patients but also their families.”
“The team aims to help families feel at ease and to make a positive impact during this difficult time in their lives.”
A key mission of the unit is to help patients return home whenever possible, ensuring they are safe and comfortable.
This approach also involves addressing the emotional and spiritual needs of patients, acknowledging that every individual’s journey is unique.”
To continue building a strong team of palliative care volunteers, Michael is leading a volunteer training course.
“They will learn how to listen well, understand different cultures, and provide simple yet meaningful acts of care like hand massages.”
“Palliative care volunteers are incredibly important because they provides emotional, social, and practical support to patients and their families during one of the most challenging times in their lives.”
“Patients facing life limiting illnesses often experience loneliness, anxiety, and fear. Volunteers offer companionship, a listening ear, and a comforting presence, helping to reduce feelings of isolation.”
“Family members caring for a loved one in palliative care also experience emotional exhaustion and burnout.”
“Volunteers provide respite by sitting with the patient, allowing caregivers time to rest or attend to personal needs.”
Unlike medical staff who have clinical responsibilities, volunteers are there purely to offer kindness, presence, and human connection. This non-clinical support can be profoundly comforting to both patients and their families.”
For those interested in becoming a palliative care volunteer, Michael welcomes inquiries, inviting potential volunteers to the welcoming and supportive environment at Auburn Hospital’s Palliative Care ward.
“The Nursing Unit Manager, Jason Selmon, is a wonderful, passionate manager who genuinely appreciates what the volunteers bring to his unit.”
“The entire nursing and medical team are so friendly.”
For anyone considering volunteering in palliative care, Michael’s message is simple: “You are volunteering in a very welcoming space where your kindness and compassion can make a real difference.”
Pictured above: Mark Wigley, volunteer, Micheline Coelho, Volunteer, and Michael Turner, Coordinator of Palliative Care Volunteers.