Compassionate Neighbours
What is Compassionate Neighbours?
Compassionate Neighbours is a community-led volunteer programme offering emotional and social support to Community Members, people living with a life-limiting illness who are feeling lonely and socially isolated and want to connect more with others.
This social movement is all about compassion. It empowers local people to build stronger, more connected communities—one relationship at a time.
What do compassionate neighbours do?
After training, you can choose how you’d like to be involved —whether it’s one-to-one support, helping with a group, or simply connecting through shared interests. No experience is needed, and the role is designed to fit around your other commitments.
You must be aged 18 or over to volunteer.
Volunteer support includes:
Regular visits or phone calls
Friendship, emotional support, and a listening ear
Shared activities, like walking, chatting over tea, or crafting
Help to stay connected with the community, family and friends
What we offer to patients - free of charge
One-to-one support from a trained Compassionate Neighbour
Wellbeing groups and social activities to reduce loneliness and encourage connection
Respite sitting service – giving carers a much-needed break
Time-limited transition support – for people recently discharged from the hospice or those who are bereaved
Support for young people moving into adult palliative care services
Click here to view our weekly schedule.
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"He came round yesterday. He was here for over an hour and 15 minutes. I told him this was the first time in 11 days I’d had contact with another human being. We had loads in common—we talked about sport. He was brilliant." Community Member
“We hit it off straight away because she didn’t assume I was a dotty old lady. We have a similar sense of humour and views. I live on my own and have always been strong and independent, so people assume I’m ok and don’t check in. We go out together and talk on the phone—when I’m with her, I feel like me again.” Community Member
For Health & Social Care Professionals
If you’re a professional looking to refer someone to the programme, download and complete the referral form and email it to the team cn@northlondonhospice.co.uk
Click here to download the referral form
453 KB WORD file
Could You Support Someone in Your Community?
We’re always looking for more Compassionate Neighbours—local people who are willing to give their time, friendship, and support to others.
The first step is to join our free training course, designed to build your confidence and skills so you can support people living with a life-limiting illness to stay connected to their community.
You’ll hear inspiring stories from existing Compassionate Neighbours and learn about the different ways you can get involved.
Visit the link at the bottom of this page to apply.
What you can gain from volunteering as a Compassionate Neighbour
Becoming a Compassionate Neighbour is rewarding and flexible. You can:
Make a real difference to someone who may be feeling isolated
Meet new people and form genuine friendships
Gain new skills and personal development opportunities
Join a supportive network of Compassionate Neighbours in your local area
Be part of a growing social movement of compassion and care
