A PILOT project to befriend carers of people near the end of their lives, is being launched this week.

Greenwich and Bexley Cottage Hospice hopes to recruit a team of 30 volunteers to visit carers in their homes, usually once a week, and sit with the patient for a few hours while the carer takes a break.

They may also take part in outings, liaise with other services or provide information about other support available, and be a friend at a time of practical and emotional turmoil.

The pilot is being funded by drug company Pfizer and run in conjuction with Marie Cure Cancer Care, to assess the need and effect of such a service.

The hospice is also looking for three telephone fundraisers.

For details call the hospice’s volunteers department on 020 8320 5812.