World · Singapore Bureau
Volunteer Finalist Brings Comfort to Dying IMH Patients Without Family
A Singaporean volunteer has been recognised as a finalist for an award honouring his work accompanying terminally ill patients at the Institute of Mental Health who have no family support.
LSN Singapore ·

The volunteer, who launched the No One Dies Alone programme at IMH in 2019, has become a compassionate presence for vulnerable patients facing end-of-life care without loved ones by their side. His initiative addresses a significant gap in palliative care, ensuring that isolated patients receive human connection and dignity during their final days.
The No One Dies Alone programme recruits trained volunteers to sit with terminal patients, providing emotional support and companionship when family members are absent or unavailable. This work has proven particularly important within the mental health hospital setting, where patients often face additional social isolation.
The volunteer's recognition as a finalist in the award scheme highlights the growing importance of community-driven initiatives in filling gaps within Singapore's healthcare system. His efforts represent a model of compassionate care that extends beyond medical treatment to address the fundamental human need for connection during vulnerable moments.
The initiative has demonstrated the profound impact that dedicated volunteers can have on patient outcomes and quality of life, even in circumstances where formal medical intervention has reached its limits. His work underscores broader conversations about elder care, mental health support, and the role of community in Singapore's healthcare landscape.