SOCIAL SUPPORT & VOLUNTEER VISITORS

We provide two volunteer visitor programs - Social Support and the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme - to enrich the quality of life for older people living at home and residents of Aged Care facilities.

What is the Social Support Program?

The Social Support - Individual Program is a social visiting service that provides trained volunteers who give their time to visit clients in their homes. It assists people to remain living in their own homes for as long as possible, and to maintain their independence. The service provides a vital link between residents who may be at risk of losing connection with their local community. The Social Support - Group is provided through a variety of special interest groups where new friendships can be formed, as well as forming a one on one relationship with a volunteer.

Anyone registered under My Aged Care with a referral code for either Social Support - Individual or Social Support - Group. This service is for people who are:

- aged 65 years or older, or 50 years or older for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people
- living in their own home
- and not in receipt of either a My Aged Care 'Home Care Package' or an NDIS plan

Social Support - Individual
Our trained volunteers visit and call residents on a weekly or fortnightly basis and may include:

- having a chat over a cuppa
- reading, especially for residents who have a visual impairment
- pick up and return of books and resources from the local Library

- writing and addressing mail, assisting with personal shopping and paying bills

- accompanied activities like walking, visiting local cafes and shops, social groups, bus trips

- support for carers

- information, advocacy and referrals

Social Support - Group

- opportunity to meet new people

- learn new skills

- relaxed atmosphere

- enjoy a cuppa and a chat

- share your knowledge

- Have Fun!

To find out what groups are currently running, visit Whats On.

There is no formal cost structure for Social Support, but a small contribution will be negotiated with you based on the activity needed and what you can afford.

All new clients must first be registered with My Aged Care. We can help you with this process if needed. We will contact you to discuss what services may best suit your needs. If we can help, we will then match you with a trained volunteer.

Please contact us for more information and for assistance to access this service.

Who can use this service?

What does this service offer?

What does this service cost?

How can I access this service?

CONTACT COMMUNITY VISTORS SCHEME

COMMUNTY VISITORS

What is the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme?

The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) matches volunteers with residents living in Aged Care Facilities, or those in receipt of a Home Care Package, to provide social support and companionship. This Australian Government initiative aims to reduce the social isolation and loneliness experienced by many older residents in our community.

This free service is available for people living in Aged Care Facilities, or people living in their own home with the support of a Home Care Package.

Volunteers visit residents weekly or fortnightly to provide friendship and social support, enhance their connection to the wider community and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Visits can be spent doing many different things including, but not limited to:
- having a chat over a cuppa
- looking through photos, reading, doing crosswords, puzzles or letter writing
- exploring the internet, video calling relatives or friends
- watching a favourite movie, TV show or listening to music
- going for a walk in the garden
- visiting a local café, shops or library

There is no cost - the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme is a free service for people living in Aged Care Facilities, or people living in their own home with a Home Care Package.

Anyone can refer someone to the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme, for example, referrals can come from relatives or friends, Aged Care Facility staff, Aged Care providers, doctors, or you can refer yourself if you would like an ACVVS visitor. Referrals do not need to go through My Aged Care.

Please contact us for more information and for assistance to access this service.

Who can use this service?

What does this service offer?

What does this service cost?

How can I access this service?

What support do Volunteers receive?

For both services, Volunteers are matched with residents, taking into account shared interests, hobbies, backgrounds and life experiences. Training is provided to Volunteers to ensure awareness of, and sensitivity to, the needs of residents.

Other support provided for Volunteers includes:
- Regular informal support meetings and training seminars are provided
- Reimbursement for out-of pocket expenses
- Contact with the larger Belong Blue Mountains community
- Contact and support from the ACVVS Co-ordinator

Our volunteers are rewarded through the sharing of a resident’s rich and interesting life and many lasting friendships are made.

Please contact us for more information or if you would like to consider becoming a volunteer.