Volunteer Visitor - Central Otago

Age Concern Otago is a local independent charity which is part of a national network of regional Age Concern Councils. Their vision is a inclusive society where people of all ages and cultures, as they grow older, have opportunities to make choices which lead to quality of life and personal fulfilment. Their work is based on the following values: dignity, wellbeing, equity and respect.

Age Concern offers a range of supportive services throughout the Central Otago region which can assist older people to improve quality of life and maintain wellbeing.

Volunteers are seeked to be matched with an elderly person who they visit once a week for an hour or so. With your companion your time together may include chatting over a cuppa, crafts, games, exercise activities, reading, visits or outings.

The role includes:

• Supporting your companion to extend their social networks.
• Being involved in some of their social activities.
• Reporting by phone to the co-ordinator.
• Give regular quality time to client.
• Attend ongoing support group meetings.
• Complete “record of visit” forms six monthly
• Maintain communication with coordinator re concerns or issues that arise.
• Inform co-ordinator if your situation changes and you can no longer visit.

Volunteers often find they enjoy their time with their client and the offer of friendship and companionship becomes two-way. Life skills gained often include communication, empathy, understanding and practical skills and activities relevant to the people involved.

The role is not intended to replace family, friends, carers or other visitors. It is important that the volunteer enjoys their time with their client, if this is not happening then they must make contact with the co-ordinator.

Requirements

Volunteers need to be mature, non-judgmental, open minded and happy communicating with people from a wide range of backgrounds.
Good communication and listening skills are essential. Volunteers must also have a commitment to confidentiality. Volunteers should have a genuine interest in, respect and aware of the needs of older people and should be able to relate to, or try to understand their circumstances.
Empathy, patience, a calm warm caring nature are essential as well as being reliable, well presented and polite.

A Police background check is required for this role.

Time commitment

Volunteers visit their elderly companion once a week for an hour or so.

Getting started

The first step is to express your interest by filling out the form below. We will then put you in touch directly with the organisation for more information on the role and how to proceed.

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AucklandNorthlandWaikatoBay of PlentyGisborneHawke's BayTaranakiManawatu-WanganuiWellingtonTasmanNelsonMarlboroughWest CoastCanterburyOtagoSouthland

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In applying for this position I confirm that I have read the requirements of the position and believe I have the skills and attributes required to carry out this role safely and effectively.