Diane Turner was the clinical Lead in the Physiotherapy Department at the Great Western Hospital (GWH) Swindon during the early and difficult days in 2020 when the COVID pandemic was spreading and the GWH was trying to find better ways to support patients and victims of COVID.
Diane built and led a team of volunteers to provide an End-of-Life Companion Service working alongside the GWH Palliative Care Unit. The volunteers gave 24/7 support to those that did not have an opportunity to spend their last days and hours with Family or Friends. Because of the COVID restrictions many COVID patients were not even able to say their Final Farewell.
This innovative work of Diane’s Team of Volunteers has now been developed for implementation as an NHS Companion Service in other hospitals across they country. Diane and her team made sure that loved ones were not left alone. In very difficult and demanding circumstances Diane put Service above Self as a truly inspiring professional in our Community.
For her professionalism, commitment and passion to help others, Diane has been recognised by the Rotary Club of Faringdon and District and awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship.
