One visit a week/fortnight. A lifetime of impact. Were seeking a volunteer to regularly a lonel[...]

SEEK Volunteer; City of Melbourne; Hybrid; AUD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An organization helping older Australians seeks volunteers to provide companionship to older people experiencing social isolation. Volunteers will engage in activities like chatting or walks to foster social connection, requiring a commitment of 12 months. This rewarding role offers personal satisfaction and community belonging.

Benefits

Improved self confidence

Social connectedness

Online training

Opportunity to engage with fellow volunteers

Qualifications

• Must be 18+.
• A genuine interest in easing loneliness in older people.
• Able to maintain clear boundaries and confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Provide companionship to an older person to reduce feelings of loneliness.
• Engage in activities with older people such as games, chatting, or walks.
• Communicate and receive support from a program officer.

Skills

Empathy

Active listening

Reliability

Flexibility

Independence

Job description

Overview

Volunteering with Elder Rights Australia helps improve the health and wellbeing of older Victorians. It’s also a great opportunity for you to gain personal satisfaction, contribute your talents and experience and gain new skills.

Responsibilities

• You will be introduced to an older person in their home or aged care facility who is experiencing feelings of social isolation. Through your ongoing visits, you will build a meaningful friendship by providing companionship that will assist in reducing feelings of loneliness and encourage social connection.
• Visit with an older person at least fortnightly (weekly is preferred).
• Engage in varied activities to suit you both, such as playing a game, a chat, a gentle walk, reading or listening to music.
• Engage, communicate, and receive support from your program officer.
• Simple monthly surveys.

About you

• Must be 18+.
• A genuine interest in easing loneliness in older people.
• Have empathy and compassion.
• Able to actively listen and engage with older people.
• Able to maintain clear boundaries and confidentiality.
• Are reliable, flexible and have confidence to work independently without direct supervision and to seek support and guidance as required.

Benefits

• Improved self confidence and self esteem.
• Your experience as a volunteer will be rewarding and purposeful.
• Social connectedness and community belonging.
• Regular online catch-ups and newsletters.
• Opportunity to engage with fellow volunteers.
• Access to Employee Assistance Program.

Companionship & Social Support , Seniors & Aged Care

Commitment

Regular - more than 6 months

Training

Online Training will be provided

Time required

Volunteers are required to visit once per fortnight (although weekly visits may be preferred). Duration of visit is up to you. We require a commitment of 12 months or longer.

Requirements

All applicants are required to undergo a Volunteer Recruitment process including Interview, Reference, Police Check and Online Training that is paid for by ERA.