One on One Visiting Volunteer Do Care

Whatever area you volunteer in, you are considered a valued Volunteer to the whole of Colac Area Health; Welcome. You are asked to follow our guidelines and policies to ensure your safety and enjoyment in your volunteer experience.

AIM:

To provide one-on-one social support and friendship for frail, aged people who are at risk of social isolation. We promote independence, wellbeing, social engagement and cognitive/intellectual stimulation. Projected outcomes are social engagement, increased activity levels, confidence and improved quality of life. Visiting is focussed on the participant’s needs/wants and doing with, not doing for.

While doing all tasks it is integral you keep in mind the organisational core values

• Compassion
• Integrity
• Respect
• Collaboration
• Accountability 

Confidentiality and privacy must be observed at all times in line with signed agreements, guidelines and policy.

Report to – Do Care Program Facilitator

DUTIES

1. Practice good hand hygiene and social distancing where possible.
2. Foster a friendship with a person living in their own home or aged care facility
3. To contact/visit the participant at home at least once per week (CHSP) or participant at home or resident in an aged care facility once per fortnight (CVS); this commitment is beneficial for both the Volunteer and participant in establishing and maintaining a friendship. A phone/letter/online/gift contact call can be made if a visit is not possible-holidays/illness/restrictions
4. A commitment to the program for a minimum of six months
5. Report to Do Care Visiting Program Facilitator when the person visited is either sick, in hospital or away from home
6. Report to the Do Care Visiting Program Facilitator or volunteer coordinator if you are unable to visit on a regular basis
7. Report to Do Care Visiting Program Facilitator, where necessary, any concerns regarding the participant, as outlined in the orientation session
8. Assist your visiting friend to any Miller House functions where participants and Volunteers are invited, if appropriate to both
9. Fill-in the formal ‘Visitor Record’ form issued quarterly and return to Miller House by stipulated date

10.To be able to be engaging and friendly to participants and show a caring attitude

11. Ensure that you engage in behaviour that treats participants fairly,  equitably and not subject to any form of discrimination or harassment as  per the CAH Code of Conduct.

12.To be able to put the needs of others first and respect their choices including saying ‘No’

13. To be mindful around the areas of ageing and independence.

14. Engage in social based activities, in line with their expressed interests such as:

Sharing a cuppa

Reading a newspaper/magazine together

Cooking together

Attending an activity at Miller House

Transport to an appointment

Playing cards/games

Assisting with IT devices (connecting with family, photos)

Preferred Experience/Attributes

• Ability to communicate with an aged person
• Demonstrate patience and tolerance
• To be a ‘people person’ who can engage well with others.
• Willingness to attend extra training on Aged Care – dementia, Advanced Care Plan, person-centred care, elder abuse
• An understanding that the connection with your visitor is important in alleviating loneliness and giving a connection to the wider community and services

Further information may be obtained by contacting Jenna Robinson, Volunteer Coordinator on 5323 5204

The successful applicant will be required to undertake a Victorian Police Check and complete a Statutory Declaration as per the Aged Care Principles prior to commencement of volunteering. Some positions will also require a WWC Check.

We are committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people.