Do you have a story to share?🙂 Companion Volunteer Aged Care ACVVS I Eltham VIC

Join Our 1:1 Friendship Program: Make a Difference in the Lives of Elderly Residents
Your presence can brighten someone’s day and help reduce loneliness, while giving you the chance to form meaningful connections and give back to the community.

What is ACVVS?

The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) connects volunteers with older people who may be socially isolated, creating regular friendship, companionship and meaningful connection.

Brighten someone’s day while making a meaningful difference to their life. Our friendship program connects volunteers with aged care residents for friendly, one-on-one visits that foster companionship, connection and happiness. We’re looking for warm, caring people who enjoy getting to know others and sharing a little of their time.

Several residents would love to build a 1:1 connection with a new friendly face. Here are just a few of the wonderful people who would love to welcome you into their week:

"John enjoys watching TV, spending time in the garden, and playing a few chords on the guitar. A retired mechanic, he loves fixing and tinkering with things. John has some ongoing health challenges and would appreciate a friendly volunteer for some conversation and company. A little patience and regular visits would mean a lot to him."

"Vera enjoys walking, crafting, and sharing stories about her Italian heritage. She would love a friendly volunteer to spend time with her, enjoy a chat, and share some companionship."

"Jen enjoys relaxing in her room while watching TV, especially tennis, home renovation and lifestyle shows. Originally from Scotland, she loves chatting about her childhood, Scotland, and her favourite programs. Jane appreciates a calm and gentle approach, and would enjoy friendly company and conversation during visits."

What You’ll Do:

• Read books, articles or stories aloud
• Engage in meaningful conversation
• Enjoy a chat over a cup of coffee
• Take a stroll in the garden
• Read books, play cards, or work on puzzles
• Listen to their favourite music

Why Volunteer?

• Create meaningful moments for seniors
• Flexible visits to suit your schedule

Many aged care residents experience loneliness and social isolation. Over 40% of people in aged care don’t have regular visitors. By volunteering just one hour a fortnight, you can make a real difference. You’ll be matched one-on-one with a resident who would value your friendship and companionship. Your visit could brighten their day and help them feel more connected.

Program Details:

• Dedication: Our special volunteers are people who would like to visit their new friend at least 20 times or more over a twelve-month period (about one visit every two to three weeks or more).
• Requirements: Must be over 18 years old, pass a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) (provided and paid for by us) and ideally be available to visit consistently and ongoing.

Ideal Volunteers:

• Exhibit care and compassion for the elderly
• Have good communication skills
• Are committed and punctual

What You’ll Gain:

• The chance to form long-lasting, meaningful friendships
• Be part of a friendly team with a strong community spirit
• Experience the joy of enriching the lives of others

Ready to Make a Difference? If you’re looking for a role where you can truly connect with others and enrich your community, apply to join our Coffee & Chat Program today. Help us combat loneliness and bring a sense of belonging to those who need it most.

Equal Opportunity At St Vincent’s we value inclusivity and diversity and acknowledge the importance of creating an environment that is welcoming, safe, fair and impartial and invite people from all backgrounds to join our caring family.