Volunteer for our Visiting Service
Do you have time for older people?
Our volunteer visitors want to make a difference because they care.
Older people who feel lonely or spend too much time alone are at greater risk of serious health problems such as heart disease and depression.
Changes in health and circumstances can lead to people becoming isolated as they age. When that happens, having a regular visit is something to look forward to, and makes a real difference to the health and happiness of an older person.
Our Visitors
Our volunteers come from a wide range of backgrounds and age groups. If you are:
- Over 18
- Warm and friendly.
- A good listener.
- Interested in spending time with an older person.
- Respectful of confidentiality and other peoples cultures, and ways of doing things.
- Able to spend at least one hour per week visiting.
To become a visitor
Before you can be matched to an older person, you will need to have an interview, pass police and reference checks, and complete orientation training.
Being a visitor
When you are matched, the aim is for you and the person you visit to get to know each other, enjoy conversation and shared activities. You are there to offer company and friendship, and to support the person you visit to extend their social activities and social connections.
You are also required to keep a record of your visits and report these to Age Concern South Canterbury on a regular basis.
Our commitment to you
We are committed to ensuring that our volunteer visitors have a rewarding, safe, and enjoyable experience.
We do this by:
- Providing clear information about your role.
- Prioritising your health and safety.
- Matching you with care to a compatible person.
- Keeping in touch with you and the person you visit.
- Working to resolve any issues.
- Providing ongoing support and training.
- Valuing your contribution and feedback.
Our visitor surveys show that over 95% of our volunteers would recommend others to volunteer for the service.
To find out more about the Age Concern Visiting Service call us or complete the online application below and we will be in touch you.