Who do volunteers visit?

Volunteers visit residents of aged care facilities who have been identified by staff as lonely or isolated. The reason for this may be social, cultural or due to a  lack of contact with friends and relatives. If a person has not received a meaningful visit for two weeks, then they are eligible to be matched with a friend. 

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What do volunteers do?

Friendship is a two-way relationship. Development of friendships between resident and community visitors must reflect the needs and wishes of both individuals.

• Be a companion, confidante and friend

• Increase resident involvement in social activities and community affairs, as appropriate e.g. reading newspapers, visiting the local park or enjoying conversations.

• Assist residents to develop and improve their skills and talents in partnership with the care management team.

• Communicate with facility staff.

• Provide assistance with non-nursing day to day tasks, only if it is going to build friendship and permitted by the staff and the resident.

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Who funds the program?

The Department of Health and Ageing funds the program. It is an Australian Government initiative and relies on local community sponsorship. The program is sponsored by such diverse community organisations such as the Golden Retriever Club of S.A., Anglicare, Australian Red Cross, Migrant Resource Centre and others.

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How do you volunteer?

Volunteers, both male and female, are required in local aged care facilities. You may complete the application form and send to any of the coordinators or the one nearest to you. An interview will then be arranged to process your application. Contact Yorke and Regional Networks (YARN) Community Visitors Scheme on 88213 355 or 0408 846 515.

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What support will you receive?

Regular support meetings are held where you will be able to discuss the joys and challenges. These meetings are informal and have proved beneficial. Out of pocket expenses such as travel, small gifts for the resident are reimbursed

Opportunity to access accredited training to assist with your confidence as a volunteer 

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Helpful Links

Department of Health and Ageing    

Volunteering S.A Inc

Community Visitor Scheme: Visitor Overview

Yorke Peninsula Employment

Revised: February 15, 2006 .