4 Older people have special experience and talents to bring to the aged care system, whether as workers or volunteers. Ageing is a special stage of life and who better to understand it and provide support to those who are struggling with ageing than someone who also has lived experience? It is not surprising, then, that the Department of Health and Aged Care has embarked on a recruitment drive for mature aged volunteers to contribute to the nation’s aged care homes and support services. The department has released a booklet outlining how to volunteer, what volunteers should expect, and how care providers can best enable volunteers in the system. The department gets off on the right foot by saying, “Volunteers are an essential part of the aged care system. They can give support to older people from diverse backgrounds, life experiences, and cultures to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.” Volunteering is rewarding for volunteers, too, they can benefit from meeting people, learning skills, and positively contributing to the community. There are two types of volunteers: • Formal volunteers: they give their time freely by supporting older people in their own or residential aged care home for the common good and without financial gain. • Informal volunteers: who do things such as helping an elderly neighbour or caring for a family member or friend. What aged care volunteers do Volunteers can spend their time supporting older people in many ways. They can help with gardening, transport, and meal delivery or simply just be there for a chat. They can also give support to older people in: • Residential aged care homes • Respite care • The homes of people with a Home Care Package (HCP) under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). The time commitment varies between roles and aged care providers work with volunteers to find a role that best suits. Most volunteering is face-to-face, but some roles can be virtual (online). Support and training As a volunteer, you can expect to be trained by the aged care provider you choose. You should receive: • Appropriate volunteer insurance cover • Induction and training in line with your role Aged care needs older volunteers How about joining a service sector that really needs you and enables you to support other ageing people? • Respect for your involvement • The ability to provide feedback • A warm welcome and encouragement • On-site supervision and access to a volunteer manager. Pathway to a career in aged care Volunteering can open career doors. The sector is under pressure and looking for more staff, so if you want to change careers, or you are seeking part-time work, you may want to try volunteering first. You can learn more about careers in aged care, what formal qualifications are required, and available training programs - https://www.health.gov.au/topics/ aged-care-workforce. The booklet Aged Care Volunteering and the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) is available - https://www.health. gov.au/resources/publications/ acvvs-booklet. Booking Day Tours, Extended Trips and QPAC Shows REGISTER WITH US TO FIND OUT MORE! PHONE 1300 794 373 www.currumbinvalleycoaches.com.au THINKING OF SELLING YOUR PROPERTY? Alistair Hamilton Principal / Agent 0413 945 599 5518 3294 WE ONLY CHARGE 1% COMMISSION SAVING YOU THOUSAND$ OF DOLLARS! SELLING ALL OVER THE COAST email@onepercentgcrealty.com.au www.onepercentgcrealty.com.au GIVING 100% SERVICE
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