A hospice has launched a companions service to reach out to more patients in the community.

St Barnabas House in Worthing is looking for volunteers who can provide social and practical support to people and their carers across its catchment area.

Using community companions means more patients can stay in their own home longer and avoid admission to hospital or transfer to a nursing home.

The hospice covers the Worthing, Adur, Arun and Henfield areas.

Peter Sinden, 67, from Goring, became a community companion this summer.

He takes Michael Hothersall, 72, from Worthing, to the supermarket once a week to buy the extra bits he needs at home and stop off for a coffee and chat.

Mr Sinden said: “The community companion scheme is simply fantastic, as it provides the social care these patients need.

“I would like to encourage more people to become community companions. The couple of hours each week I give to be with Michael are always enjoyable and I feel proud that such a small, easy thing for me, makes such a big difference to Michael’s life.”

Mr Hothersall said: “Without Peter it is very difficult for me to get out and to get the extra treats I like.

“Without the things I like, I feel lonely and trapped as it is so frustrating not being able to do things myself, having had a very active life up until now.”

The hospice is holding a community companions introductory meeting at St Barnabas House in Titnore Lane on September 18 at 10am.

More details are also available on 01903 706360 or email community.companions@stbh.org.uk.