Malteser launches hospice service for northern Cologne

Malteser in Deutschland has expanded its regional care offerings by launching a new outpatient hospice service covering the Chorweiler and Longerich districts of Cologne. The service is designed to support terminally ill individuals and their families, enabling patients to remain in their own homes for as long as possible.

Qualified volunteers provide the core of the service, aiming to ensure dignity and autonomy for patients during their end-of-life care. Beyond patient support, the initiative serves as a resource for family members, offering guidance and relief during the palliative process.

In preparation for the service's full operational rollout, the organization is conducting a training course for prospective hospice volunteers from January through May 2027. Coordinator Melanie Hofer is managing the recruitment process and notes that applications are currently open.

The new service was officially introduced during an aging-focused community event in October, where local stakeholders reached an agreement to coordinate social services more effectively across northern Cologne.