Access Sydney needs volunteers who enjoy enjoy the company of older people, are friendly, and can commit to spending a couple of hours a fortnight assisting older people with their shopping. The Shopping Assistance Program helps older people to continue to live independently in their home. Access Sydney introduces volunteers to the aged care clients to organise a schedule of shopping trips (weekly/fortnightly) where they meet at an agreed shopping centre. Currently, volunteering opportunities are available in the city and eastern suburbs of Sydney. These volunteering opportunities are supported by a structured orientation and training program, a caring environment, and a single point of contact within our organisation.

Expectations of Volunteers: To participate in the program, volunteers must be willing to:

• Make a commitment to volunteer for a minimum of two hours a fortnight, and for at least 3 months
• Be willing to interact in a friendly manner with aged care clients while assisting them with their shopping and checking on their wellbeing
• Be respectful and honest in interactions with clients and respect their diversity and personal choices.
• Be able to travel independently to meet the client at their local shopping centre.
• Meet program administrative requirements - including completing brief client reports at the end of each service.

What Volunteers Can Expect Volunteering with aged care clients can be personally rewarding. Volunteers often find connecting with other people, learning about different cultures, and giving back to the community to be valuable experiences. We'll support by providing:

• An induction program that orients volunteers to Aged Care programs, conduct requirements and volunteer supervision.
• A single point of contact, Access Sydney's Community Programs Coordinator.
• Meetings of volunteers to discuss issues and improve volunteer services.
• Events to celebrate the contribution of volunteers.

Contact us now to enquire about these rewarding opportunities.