Hospital charity launches £100,000 appeal to ensure no one dies alone

The big picture: The Butterfly Service, run by East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT), offers comfort and companionship to patients in their final days.

Key details:

• Funds will support Butterfly coordinators and volunteer training

• Money will help run Butterfly Centres at Colchester and Ipswich hospitals

• Limited-edition metal butterflies are on sale for £35 each to support the appeal

• Volunteers offer various forms of support, from reading stories to simply holding a patient's hand

• The service also supports families with guidance and a listening ear

Why it matters: The service provides crucial emotional support to patients and families during difficult times, ensuring that no one faces the end of life alone.

What they're saying: Jane, a former maternity nurse and Butterfly volunteer, describes the role as "humbling" and "a privilege":

“During my career, I was lucky enough to work on maternity wards at the beginning of life,” said Jane. “I feel that being there at the end is just as much of a privilege.

“My son died in my arms in Ipswich Hospital in 2009, and four years ago his widow also died. I therefore thought I might have both the personal and professional experience to offer the support that patients and their families may need.

“Spending time with somebody at the end of their life is a privilege, and I hope can be a relief and cushion for their families. I think we all sometimes feel that the patient knows we are there and can hear us – I think it is time very well spent. I also know it is something that nurses would love to do if they had the time, and so hope I am supporting them too.

“I know from conversations that families appreciate knowing that the Butterfly volunteers mean there is less chance that their relative will die alone. Over these last two years it has been very special to be able to give time to listen to the love with which so many describe dying members of their family.”

Nichola Whymark, head of fundraising and marketing, said: "Our Butterfly Service is really important as it helps to make sure that no one dies alone."

"Our volunteers sit quietly by a patient’s bedside, read stories or poetry, talk about memories, play music or simply hold someone’s hand. They also offer all-important support to loved ones, whether that is a listening ear, much-needed time away from the ward or guidance on how to access other services."

How to help: People can support the appeal or purchase a metal butterfly, crafted locally by Suffolk Ironworks, through the Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity website.

What's next: The metal butterflies will be on display at Colchester and Ipswich hospitals until mid-October before being sent to buyers.