You can make a difference...

Many elderly Australians in aged care homes are socially isolated from the community. QCCN is looking for people with big hearts to visit these senior citizens and reconnect them with the community. It only takes an hour a fortnight and all you have to do is be a friend.

Residents enjoy the social visits of our volunteers. You will be matched one-on-one with a resident who has been identified as socially isolated, or at risk of becoming so. Volunteers enjoy a coffee and chat, or perhaps a board game with their new friend, and through ongoing visits create a wonderful new friendship for someone in need.

This male resident in care, aged 98 years, would greatly benefit from one-on-one interaction with a mature age Community Visitor volunteer who is able to visit him on a regular fortnightly basis for companionship, social connection and conversation. Originally from Wales, this gentleman is described as a lovely man who is very lonely and in need of additional social support now that he has moved into aged care. In his working life, he was part of the Merchant Navy. He enjoys talking about his life and time in the war. His interests include English history, the Tudor period and poetry. He does enjoy Scrabble and playing cards but failing eyesight is making it hard for him to see the cards. He also likes going for a slow walk around the facility. A volunteer with shared interests who is able to take the time and sit with him would be a great match. Visits can take place weekdays or weekends, at any time.

Volunteer requirements are -

• To be aged over 18 years
• The passing of the National Criminal History Check (which we perform and pay for - you won't need to supply this!) 
• A 2023 flu vaccination, with evidence available to present to the aged care home &
• The availability to visit your new friend once a fortnight for the next twelve months. Of course, we understand holidays/study/work comes up, and that's totally fine - the regularity of your visits will also assist your resident to feel a sense of connection and to help grow your friendship even further.

This volunteer role is not suitable for those looking to gain experience within the health sector in regards to job placement/meeting study requirements. As this role offers no direct clinical exposure, it does not qualify as work or practical experience.

QCCN are excited to invite applications from volunteers who fit the criteria for this placement. This care home has wonderful supportive staff who will assist you to make sure your volunteer journey is a successful and enjoyable experience. They will be with you throughout the process for support and guidance.

Please note that during flu season (typically April - October), all visitors to aged care facilities in Australia (including staff, family and volunteers) must have a Flu Vaccination with evidence to be provided to aged care facility upon each visit.

We’re a small not for profit aiming to do big things! It’s our goal to try to eliminate the elderly feeling secluded whilst in residential care. To do this, we connect volunteers with the elderly so they can develop long lasting, meaningful friendships. We'd love to have you join our team if this is the kind of role you are looking for within the community!