Bringing comfort and conversation: Fliss and Comet's story
Meet Fliss and her loyal companion Comet. Together, they help spread the word about how people can share their experiences of health and social care and make sure their voices are heard.
“I am really excited to volunteer. The work Healthwatch does is really important and something I care about greatly.”
A unique team with a big heart
Fliss and Comet visited Scarborough Hospital, where they spent the day chatting with patients, visitors and staff.
Their aim was simple: to let people know that Healthwatch is there to listen to their experiences, whether they wanted to share something positive or raise a concern.
“Comet brought so much joy to everyone we spoke to. People were drawn in by his friendly nature and then happy to share their thoughts about care.”
For many people, Comet helped break the ice. A friendly dog often sparked conversations that may never have started otherwise.
His presence brought smiles, reduced anxiety and helped create opportunities for people to talk about their experiences in a relaxed and informal way.
Listening, helping, informing
Volunteers like Fliss do more than listen. They also help people find information and understand the support available to them.
During the visit, Fliss shared information about Healthwatch and signposted people to resources such as the guide to getting the most from GP appointments.
“We were in a busy corridor, but so many people stopped to talk. Some shared things that were working well for them; others told us about moments where they felt confused or frustrated. Being able to listen and offer them a way to be heard made the day feel really meaningful.”
Staff at the hospital were equally enthusiastic, helping distribute information to wards and outpatient areas so more people could benefit.
What Fliss gains from volunteering
For Fliss, volunteering is not only about helping others. It has also been an opportunity to build confidence, develop new skills and meet people from across the community.
“Healthwatch advocates for people using health and social care by listening to their experiences and working to improve care. I’m proud to be part of that.”
“This role is helping me develop my communication skills, confidence and understanding of how local healthcare and social care works. And doing it with Comet by my side makes every encounter a joy.”
For Fliss, volunteering has provided the chance to make a difference while sharing the experience with a very special companion.
A note about pets in hospital settings
Please note that, in line with infection prevention and control guidance, pets are not normally allowed in hospital settings in order to help keep patients and staff safe.
Assistance and service dogs are welcome, except in exceptional circumstances. These are working dogs who support people with hearing or visual impairment and other access needs.
Comet is associated with an organisation and has appropriate training and behavioural standards. Legally, assistance dogs do not need to be registered with a central body. They must be task trained to support a disability and behave appropriately in public settings.
