A retired Territorial Army major is renewing an appeal to help swell the ranks of befriending volunteers who are bringing both practical and emotional comfort to people with life-limiting illness.

Major Andy McArthur (pictured) is part of an initiative spanning Lanarkshire which sees the volunteers work alongside specialist community-based palliative nurses from St Andrew’s Hospice in Airdrie.

The team’s aim is to complement existing clinical support in the community – like district nurses, Macmillan nurses and GPs – and alleviate some of the stresses and strains that can often go hand-in-hand with life-limiting illness, for both patient and carer alike.

Andy, a retired BT technician from Netherburn, who also spent four decades serving in the Territorial Army progressing from the rank of private to major, said the reassuring hand of friendship can be vital.

“It’s often the little things that can make a world of difference and reduce a lot of pressure and stress to the person with the life-limiting illness and their carer. Full training is provided on key aspects of communication and listening in palliative care so you enter the situation fully confident and equipped with knowledge.”

If you are interested in volunteering phone St Andrew’s Hospice on 01236 766951.