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Friendly Visitor for Older People

St Jude's Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme

St Jude's ACVVS Volunteer Visitors make regular -preferably weekly, but sometimes fortnightly-contact with an older person who is living in an Aged Care Facility or in their own home in the community.

Most of this contact is face to face, but on rare occasions contact might be by phone, card, letter or via Facetime or Skype.

Volunteers are matched to an older person who has been referred to the scheme and are supported in their role.

The aim of this Volunteer Visitor program is to have a friendship develop between the volunteer and the person being visited. Activities undertaken by Volunteer Visitors include:

  • chatting
  • listening to or playing music
  • looking at photos
  • undertaking a mutually enjoyable hobby together
  • pottering in the garden
  • going for a walk
  • going for a drive
  • or enjoying a coffee or light meal together

The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme supports older people who are at risk of being socially isolated, and who might benefit from

  • a volunteer's friendship and companionship.

Volunteer Visits - Timing and Commitment;

  • St Jude's asks that ACVVS volunteers are able to commit at least 1 hour a fortnight to visiting the older person that they are matched with, and that they are happy to commit to this for a period of at least 6 months.

  • The timing of those visits is flexible but must suit both the volunteer and the older person. This enables the development of the friendly relationship, over time,

  • Absence; We understand that there will be periods when work, health, holidays or family commitments will limit availability and this is fine, as long as the St Jude's ACVVS Coordinator is advised.

  • Skills and Experience; Volunteers need to be comfortable with older people and enjoy talking with them, but there are no formal skills or qualifications required.

  • Age; Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older.

  • A National Police Clearance is required for this role. Help is available to apply for one, if required.

  • Training and Support; Volunteers are supported by the St Jude's ACCVS Coordinator.

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