Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme

I WOULD LIKE TO VOLUNTEER

There are many seniors in our community who are lonely and may not have family or friends living nearby. Our federally funded Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme volunteers spend an hour once a fortnight developing friendships, having a chat and sharing a cuppa. The joy they bring is immeasurable! Our one-on-one visiting scheme matches volunteers from the local community with residents who live at home or in aged care facilities who have been identified as being socially isolated and whose quality of life is improved by friendship and companionship.

Affectionately referred to as CatholicCare’s ‘friendship program’, you will be able to build new connections and positive relationships with someone who will greatly appreciate your company. The time will be spent having a cuppa, going on outings, reading together, listening to music, playing games and other activities. We receive regular requests for volunteers who speak other languages so it’s a bonus if you are multilingual!

Can you spare an hour a fortnight? The visiting times are very flexible, orientation and ongoing training and support is provided and we provide an opportunity for social gatherings.

EXPLORE OUR VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES

Research has consistently shown that people who give up their time to help others are generally happier, healthier and sleep better than those who don’t volunteer.

Check out our current opportunities now.

current Opportunities

I AM A SENIOR WANTING A REGULAR VISITOR

Across the Central Coast and Northern Sydney, our volunteers are trained to provide meaningful companionship and support to seniors in their own homes, or in residential care homes. They offer a friendly face, a listening ear and an opportunity for social connection for those who may not have regular visitors. We believe that everyone deserves to feel connected and cared for! At CatholicCare we pride ourselves on ensuring a consistent and carefully matched volunteer who visits regularly. This is a free service. If you, or a senior you know, would benefit from a regular visitor please contact us.

For more information:
P: (02) 9481 2600
E: acvvs@catholiccaredbb.org.au

“It’s all about having the company of another person & having someone to share stories with.”

Winnie with Oi Mei

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I become a volunteer?

You can become a volunteer by speaking with our friendly team on (02) 9481 2600. A Volunteer Coordinator will contact you and ask some basic questions to start the process.

What is the time commitment needed to volunteer with you?

We offer flexible volunteering opportunities but a minimum of 1 hour per fortnight is ideal.

Do I get training and support?

You will be provided with training, mentorship, and regular meet ups with other volunteers to help you along your way. You will be paired with a Volunteer Coordinator and will always be able to contact them for support.

Why should I volunteer for you?

Volunteers can experience a boost to their self-confidence, self-esteem and life satisfaction. Helping others can provide a deep sense of accomplishment, and you can make new friends along the way.

CatholicCare has been running this volunteer program in one form or another for over a decade and we know that our volunteers improve the lives of the elderly recipients by:

Offering a sense of connectedness to the recipient’s community, culture and identity
Reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation
Reducing feelings of depression and anxiety.

Do I get paid for my petrol and other expenses?

As a volunteer, you are not typically paid for your petrol or other expenses. Volunteer work is unpaid and based on the willingness to contribute your time and skills for the benefit of others.

I know of a lonely senior. What can I do to help them?

If you know a lonely senior, you can reach out to us (02) 9481 2600 and provide us with some basic information to see if we can assist. Most importantly, we urge you to get to know them yourself. Being present and caring can greatly improve the wellbeing and quality of life for seniors in our community.