The Volunteer, qualified to operate in the network of Palliative Care, has the ability to establish meaningful relationships with the sick person and with the family.

Through active listening, he/she offers the possibility to communicate emotional experiences, transmitting understanding and closeness in respect of existing relationships and roles. The Volunteer does not replace professional staff in the provision of care but accompanies and coordinates with it for support activities. Although not a professional figure, the Volunteer is part of the team to which he periodically reports on his work. Formed to address the problems associated with a situation of global pain, the Volunteer can take on the role of a link between the patient, the family, and the healthcare staff with whom he shares the objectives. The Volunteer does not present himself in a personal capacity but must be recognizable for the role he exercises and for the organization to which he belongs.
The activities of relational and social support to the sick person and the family include different areas. The Volunteer facilitates the maintenance of continuous communication between the ill person and the family and the assistance service. He/she offers support in carrying out the activities of daily life; supports the sick and helps the family in the organizational management of the day, ensuring a presence in periods of temporary absence of the caregiver; promotes diversionary activities; gives comfort and closeness in time of aggravation and after death.