An Amitayus volunteer arriving at an older woman’s home with flowers.

Compassionate support, in the familiarity of home

Amitayus supports people approaching the end of life who wish to remain at home, together with the family members, friends and carers walking beside them.

Through trained volunteer carers, we offer practical support, companionship and respite, helping make care at home feel more manageable and less overwhelming.

Our support is provided free of charge.


Support centred around the person

Every person’s experience of illness, dying and caring is different. Amitayus works alongside:

  • People who are palliative or approaching the end of life

  • Family members and friends caring for someone at home

  • People who need companionship, practical assistance or respite

  • Families seeking guidance about whether care at home may be possible

You do not need to know exactly what support you require before contacting us. A conversation can help us understand what is happening and whether Amitayus may be able to assist.


Support shaped around what matters most

Companionship and presence

A trained volunteer can spend time with the person at home, offering calm companionship, conversation or quiet presence according to what feels comfortable.

An older woman sharing quiet company with a volunteer at home.

Respite for family and carers

Volunteer support may allow a family member or carer to step away for a short time, attend to practical responsibilities, continue working or simply rest.

A person walking alone along the beach at sunset.

Practical assistance

Depending on the person’s needs and the availability of volunteers, support may include everyday tasks, errands and other practical forms of assistance.

An Amitayus volunteer helping an older woman carry shopping home.

Emotional support

Amitayus volunteers offer a caring and respectful presence for individuals and families navigating illness, dying and the demands of caring at home.

An Amitayus volunteer offering quiet reassurance to an older woman at home.

Care that works alongside you

Amitayus does not take over from family, friends or a person’s healthcare team. Our role is to work alongside the people already involved, providing additional practical and emotional support within the home.

Support is shaped around:

The person’s wishes
Care begins with listening to what matters to the individual.

The family’s circumstances
We consider the needs and capacity of the people providing care.

Volunteer availability
The type and frequency of support will depend on the circumstances and the volunteers available.

Respect and inclusion
Amitayus welcomes people of every race, faith, cultural background, age, ability, gender identity and sexual orientation.


Understanding our role

Amitayus offers community-based volunteer support. The service is not intended to replace medical, nursing, palliative-care or emergency services.

The type and availability of support will depend on each person’s circumstances and the availability of trained volunteers.