Family Support Specialist for Families with Seriously Ill Children (363111)

Kinderhilfe’s outpatient pediatric hospice service supports families in which a child or adolescent has a life-shortening or life-threatening illness. Families receive psychosocial and resource-oriented care and are supported in their specific life situations. Support is typically provided in the home environment, though sometimes it also takes place in the hospital.

An important part of the work is carried out by volunteer family companions. They visit the families regularly and spend time with one or more family members. This includes, for example, joint outings with siblings, visits to the hospital, or conversations and personal support. The goal is to ease the burden on families in their daily lives, give them time and attention, and stand by their side during a challenging life situation.

The volunteer family companions visit families regularly at home or in the hospital and spend time with one or more family members. Possible activities include, for example, doing things together with siblings, going to the playground, visiting the hospital, playing together, or simply being there as someone to talk to. The specific nature of the support is tailored to the needs and wishes of each family.

Participation in a mandatory preparatory course is a prerequisite for this volunteer position. The course consists of a total of 100 hours and covers important fundamentals of family support, including communication, self-care, and grief. Other important qualities include empathy, sensitivity, reliability, openness, and a willingness to respond to the individual needs of families.

Volunteer support typically involves about 2–3 hours per week. The specific times and dates are arranged individually with each family.

Supporting families with a child who has a life-shortening or life-threatening illness is a responsible and emotionally demanding task. It is particularly important to treat all family members with respect, empathy, and appreciation. Participation in the 100-hour preparatory course is mandatory.