Orange City Council is encouraging residents to consider volunteering with the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS).
ACVVS matches friendly visitors with older people wanting social connections. It is seeking people to volunteer for a minimum of one hour a fortnight to provide friendship and companionship for older people living in Orange.
Orange City Council's Services Policy Committee Chair Marea Ruddy encouraged people to consider making a difference in an older person's life.
"Just an hour a fortnight could bring joy to someone feeling lonely or isolated, and improve their quality of life," Cr Ruddy said.
"It's not just a nice thing to do, it's fun, rewarding and interesting. Plus, you could make someone's day.
The free Australian Government scheme is delivered by Orange City Council and is available to anyone on a Home Care Package or living in residential aged care.
Volunteers can visit the older person in their own home, their aged-care residence or a public venue.
To be a volunteer visitor you need to:
- Be over 18 years of age
- Be available for one hour a fortnight
- Have access to transport
- Undergo an application and orientation process
- Obtain police checks as required.
