Hospice Volunteering

[Onlyforaday]

I'm considering some voluntary work on reception in one of our local hospices. Does anyone have experience of working in these positions please?
I'd just like some feedback before I complete my application.
I believe there would be two receptionists on duty at any given time. The idea of being a first contact within the unit appeals to me as it ties in with my former public facing career.
Is it usually busy? Are staff a tight knit group who support each other?
I have an idea of the duties required but I'd like to get an idea of the whole "feeling/ vibe" if possible.
Hope someone can help!

Thr feeling, busyness, and staff relationships will vary from place to place. Without knowing specifically where you're applying to I don't see how anyone can answer that. Can't you go in for an informal chat?

Business varies depending on how many patients there are and how many visitors they have.
It also depends on the hospice - if they also have day services, outpatients, counselling etc it will be more busy.

Have worked in hospices where it would be very quiet (usually have one receptionist and not all the time) and ones where it's busy and there are two receptionists with significant welcoming and signposting roles.

Volunteers tend to stay a long time wherever I've been so it must be satisfying and enjoyable.

Thank you. Yes I am going in for a chat but I am still interested in hearing personal accounts from those who have experience.
There is a day unit, in - patient unit, children's unit plus various therapy units so there is definitely a buzz about the place. I am very familiar with end of life care giving within my family but of course this will be an admin role.

I've worked in a children's hospice and now use the service with my little one. Yes, the staff at both places are a tight-knit, supportive bunch of people, and yes, it is often busy as our hospice offers day services too such as hydrotherapy, music therapy, support groups etc. The receptionists play an important part at our hospice as theirs is usually the first face we see when we visit.

Thank you for your insight; it's very helpful. I'm sorry that you are needing their support at the moment but it sounds to be a wonderful set up and very similar to those in my area.

Hospice nurse here.
You need to be kind, empathetic, remember you may be the first person families see shortly before/after their family members' death.

Thank you :) I am confident that I have those qualities so that's a good start.