Role Purpose - You will be matched with an older person in their home or aged care facility who is experiencing feelings of social isolation. Through your ongoing contact, you will build a meaningful friendship, reduce feelings of loneliness and encourage greater social connections.

Role Responsibilities

• Connect regularly, one-on-one, with an older person on a weekly or fortnightly basis. This can be via face-to-face visits, phone calls, writing letters or emails or video calls.
• Undertake activities that are of interest to the participant. This this may include listening to music together, playing cards or board games, or simply having a chat.
• Outings are also possible once ongoing visits are well established.
• Maintain regular communication with the program staff and lead volunteer.
• Record and submit monthly reports.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• A genuine interest in building friendship and social connections with older people to ease social isolation.
• Have an understanding of the complex health issues faced by people as they age and use this understanding and empathy during your visits.
• Effective social skills; can listen and chat to engage with people from diverse backgrounds and who may be experiencing loneliness.
• Ability to maintain clear boundaries and confidentiality.
• Are mature, reliable and have confidence to work independently without direct supervision and to seek support and guidance as required.