Elder Rights Australia delivers the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS), a social-based program for people who could benefit from having a dedicated volunteer. We connect older people with caring volunteers for friendship and companionship. Visits are relaxed and social, focusing on conversations and having fun together. You and your visitor might choose to:
- have a cuppa and chat
- take a walk or go on an outing
- swap information about shared hobbies or interests
- watch a favourite TV show together
- do another activity that you both enjoy.
To sign up to be matched with a visitor, either fill in the online form below or call us on 1800 022 887 to speak to our ACVVS Team.
Who can have a volunteer visitor?
We arrange volunteer visitors for older people who:
- live in an aged care home
- live in their own home and are on the waiting list for a Support at Home Package
- live in their own home and receive services through a Support at Home Package.
Participating in the program is completely free. The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme is an Australian Government-funded initiative.
To be matched with a volunteer visitor fill in the form
To sign up to be matched with a volunteer visitor, either fill in the online form below or call us on 1800 022 887 to speak to our ACVVS Team. We also take referrals from aged care service providers, as well as family members and friends.
What happens next
After you sign up, we’ll get in touch to learn more about you and what you’re looking for.
Next, we’ll match you with a volunteer visitor based on shared interests. All volunteers are screened (including a police check) and given training and support.
Once you’ve been matched with a volunteer visitor, you can expect to hear from them once per fortnight, either through a visitor or by phone, letter or video call.
Please note that volunteers are not able to:
- provide personal or nursing care
- provide domestic assistance or undertake home maintenance
- get involved in your personal or family affairs
- engage in activities outside of their role, including running errands, shopping or taking you to appointments
- advocate on your behalf.
Volunteers are there to provide companionship and friendship. If you need additional support or services, please speak to your Aged Care or Support at Home Package Provider or the Elder Rights Australia ACVVS Team.
The Australian Government funds this service.
Residential Care Rights Inc T/AS Elder Rights Australia Funded by the Australian Government