More volunteers trained in hand massage therapy

More volunteers have been trained so they can offer light touch hand massage to patients, visitors, and staff across the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Around 20 volunteers are already trained in offering hand massage to patients, but the project has been expanded with new training delivered by Sally Chapman, Complementary Therapy Co-ordinator.
Sally has years of experience working in palliative care and has developed this simple hand massage routine called Caring and Light Massage Support (CaLMS) for hands, which is a therapeutic, gentle light touch massage using specific movements and pressure with holding various reflexology points for support and relaxation.

Three training sessions have taken place over the summer with 31 volunteers trained and assessed.
Sally Chapman, Complementary Therapy Co-ordinator, said: “Therapeutic light touch massage works on the sensory nerve endings in the skin, affecting part of the brain which initiates deep relaxation and reduces stress. It also calms the nervous system, lowers the heart rate, supports sleep and can help manage pain.

“It is ideal for fragile, oncology, and palliative care patients, and those at end of life but anyone can benefit. Touch is one of the basic forms of communication, yet many of us are afraid to touch those who need it most. I’m grateful we can now offer this therapy to all in-patients across the hospital, as well as visitors, carers and staff.”

The project has been supported by In-patient Coordinator Louise Willimott, whose role, alongside the Complementary Therapists, is funded by the N&N Hospitals Charity.

Sally Dyson, Voluntary Services Manager, said: “It’s brilliant that we can expand this project and use Sally’s expertise to offer up to date training to more volunteers who are interested in giving hand massage.”

One volunteer who attended the training said: “I think this will be a wonderful service to offer whilst being a butterfly volunteer.” Another said it would be helpful “to support people with dementia at times of distress or discomfort and to provide reassurance.”

• See how the N&N Hospitals Charity supports our hospitals.