Volunteers sought to brighten the lives of older people

THE Red Cross is looking for volunteers from Leopold, Point Lonsdale and Ocean Grove to brighten the lives of older people experiencing isolation and loneliness.

The Community Visitors Scheme (CVS) connects an older person living at their home or in an aged care facility that would like more social contact with a friendly volunteer visitor.

Through the friendship you will assist an older person to maintain and grow community links – this might be through relaxed conversation, participating in shared interests or even going on outings together.

Volunteers come from all walks of life and beliefs and are friendly, emotionally mature and want to make a difference to improve someone’s life.

Volunteers visit weekly or fortnightly to build trust and rapport so a long-term friendship can develop.

Holding a valid driver’s license and a means of travel would be beneficial, as the person you visit may not live near public transport.

All volunteers are asked to complete a National Criminal Check and agree to the CVS guidelines and Red Cross principles.

Red Cross will ensure you have training and ongoing support within the world’s largest humanitarian network.

For more information, phone Kimberley Trawn on 0419 151 830.

Applications close on August 12.