Why become an ACVVS Volunteer?
The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) in Victoria gives volunteers an opportunity to positively change someone’s life through friendship. As we grow older, friendships are more important than ever, it’s never too late to make new and meaningful connections. We are seeking volunteers who can commit to building a friendship with an older person, who may be lonely and isolated.
By volunteering in a residential aged care facility, you can improve the quality of life for an older person who may have limited contact with others – whether for social or cultural reasons, or due to disability.
One in four Australians feel lonely or isolated socially. Forming meaningful friendships by volunteering can help you and an older person to feel more connected.
Many of our residents are from different cultural backgrounds and want to chat in their home language. If you speak a language other than English, we encourage you to apply.
“The Residents enjoy seeing a friendly face on a regular basis, whether it is over a cuppa, a walk or just a simple chat. Many long-term friendships have been forged through the ACVVS program. Anybody can make a difference to someone else.”
-Santi, Lifestyle Coordinator at Sacred Heart Mission Community
How it works:
Every day of the year, Sacred Heart Mission assists hundreds of people who are experiencing homelessness or disadvantage to find shelter, food, care and support. Through our wide-ranging homelessness services, research and innovation we strongly advocate for an inclusive, fair and compassionate community where people can overcome disadvantage and trauma.
Affiliated Partners:
Locations
Brighton –Calvary Elanora, Vasey RSL Care Brighton and Brighton East
Port Melbourne – Wintringham
South Melbourne – CaspaCare
St Kilda – Sacred Heart Community Residential Care
Windsor – BUPA
Requirements:
Everyone is welcome to apply as a volunteer. As part of the application process:
- You’ll need to agree to a confidentiality agreement
- Adhere to our Code of Conduct
- Undergo the required safety screening (eg Police or NDIS check; all costs will be covered by Sacred Heart Mission).
- Live in, or work near the locations we cover (Southeast inner Melbourne.)
- Be friendly, flexible and compassionate
- 18 years or older
Commitment:
With the aim of building a long-term relationship with your resident, we encourage you to commit to regular visits, either weekly or fortnightly, for a minimum of six months. Ideally, these visits are between Monday and Friday during business hours, but weekend visits may be possible.
Funded by the Australian Government