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A new scheme being piloted in Haverhill by St Nicholas Hospice needs some people to come forward who need help from the volunteers it is training.

The hospice shop in the town has a new display from today to boost awareness of the scheme.

If you need help with everyday tasks, such as walking the dog or picking up a prescription, because you are too ill to do them yourself, St Nicholas Hospice Care wants to hear from you.

Its newly-launched Hospice Neighbours scheme aims to help those suffering life-shortening illness and their families, by sending volunteers – or ‘neighbours’ – to help with the little jobs that can become overwhelming when you are ill.

Haverhill was chosen for the first pilot of the scheme, before it is rolled out across West Suffolk and Thetford, due to the great community spirit in the town.

“People in Haverhill have always been generous in their support of the hospice, whether through volunteering their help or fundraising, so when we decided to pilot Hospice Neighbours we knew we had to start here,” said Emma Page, voluntary ervices manager.

Now, the first Hospice Neighbours volunteers have been recruited and are in training, so the team needs people to get in touch if they could do with some help.

“I am excited that this innovative scheme is now up and running, but I am keen to get the message out to the community that our Hospice Neighbours are here – ready and willing to help,” said Emma.

“We really want people to come forward if they think they would benefit from the Hospice Neighbours. At the same time, we are still looking for more volunteers.”

This week, the window of Haverhill’s St Nicholas Hospice Care shop has been transformed with an eye-catching display to send out the message that the scheme is in operation.

Hospice Neighbours co-ordinator Kay Newman will be at the shop, at 61a High Street, every day from Tuesday, January 18, Thursday, January 20, and Saturday, January 22, from 10am-2pm, where she will be able to answer queries and talk about the scheme.

If you or a loved one are suffering life-shortening illness and think you could use the scheme – or if you are interested in volunteering – contact 01284 715589.