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The Community Visitors
Scheme (CVS) is a
National Program funded by the Australian Government. Community Visitors Scheme
aims to enrich the quality of life of residents of Aged Care Homes and Hostels
who are seen as socially isolated or lonely & who would benefit from a friendly
visitor.
The CVS helps to establish links between people living in aged care homes &
hostels and their local community.
When a volunteer Community Visitor is matched to visit with a resident the
expectation of the service is that the volunteer will visit regularly.
What do community visitors do?
As a community visitor, you are required to commit to visiting your resident
friend at least once a fortnight.
Visits could be spent doing something that you both enjoy - you may care to
read, listen to music together, chat & reminisce or watch a favorite TV program
together. Maybe a short walk outside (weather permitting) or perhaps an outing
together. Of course the activities you undertake will depend on the health of
the resident. Sharing your time and interests with a resident will help them to
feel better about themselves and an increase in feelings of independence.
Who would you visit?
Community Visitors visit a resident who has been identified as suitable for the scheme using target group guidelines these include residents who
don't have regular contact with relatives or friends from outside the Aged Care
home or hostel.
Community Visitors may visit a resident who is isolated due to cultural reasons,
these & other factors are taken into account when discussing your interests and
background when you make contact with the CVS coordinator.
Community Visitors find that they enjoy the friendship as much as the resident
does & relationships developed are positive and mutually rewarding.
If you would like to know more
If you are interested and would like to have more information about CVS and would like to become a Community Visitor contact your local Commonwealth Carelink Centre on FREECALL™ 1800 052 222 Your local Commonwealth Carelink Centre can refer you to the appropriate point of contact.
Your Local Office:
Lismore Community Visitors Scheme
Coordinator, Nora Vidler-Blanksby J.P.
Phone: 6622 4433
e-mail: CVS
Lismore Neighbourhood Centre
76 Carrington St
Lismore, NSW, 2480
Postal Address
PO Box 525
Lismore NSW 2480