No One Dies Alone

At Highland Hospice, we believe that no one should face their final moments alone. That is why we offer the No One Dies Alone (NODA) support, a compassionate initiative designed to ensure that people in their last hours have someone by their side to provide comfort, support, and companionship. This service is currently available in hospitals and care homes in Inverness and Easter Ross. 

No One Dies Alone was developed in Oregon in 2001 by nurse Sandra Clark, who, after being unable to fulfill her promise to stay with a dying patient, envisioned a program where volunteers would provide companionship to those in their final hours. The service was first brought to Scotland in 2017 in the Inverclyde area and has since expanded throughout the country.

In Highland NODA support is delivered by volunteers trained by Highland Hospice who offer a reassuring presence to individuals at the end of life. Volunteers sit at the bedsides of people in hospitals or care homes who are in their final 24 to 48 hours and do not have family or friends present. This could involve reading to the patient, chatting about their life or simply being present. We can also offer support to enable a family member to have a few hours respite or to sit with them at the bedside. 

We accept requests for support from healthcare professionals and family members. Please call 01463 227901 or email nhsh.hospicereferrals@nhs.scot

After receiving a request for support we will contact the hospital or care home where the patient is based to request permission to proceed with NODA support.