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What is the Isolated Ethnic Elderly Program?
The Isolated Ethnic Elderly Program provides support to isolated older people and people with a disability and their carers through a program of friendly visiting and by linking people with community groups and services.
The program aims to increase the social networks of lonely older people and younger people with a disability and their carers, by establishing an on-going relationship with a volunteer, council service or local community group.
The service does not provide home help but rather encourages and provides the opportunity for socially isolated people to participate in community life by providing companionship, friendship and assistance.
Volunteers
The Isolated Ethnic Elderly Program relies on volunteers to provide one or two hours of companionship a week to the elderly or disabled clients or their carers.
The volunteers are matched with clients on the basis of similar interests, hobbies and personalities and may engage in a variety of activities with the clients including shopping, walking, cinema, or simply chatting.
How Can I Become a Volunteer?
If you would like to become a volunteer and visit an elderly person on a regular basis there are several things to consider, such as: whether you are able to make a regular commitment; and the level of support you will be able to provide.
Training is offered to all volunteers and support is provided by the MRCNW. All volunteers go to training which covers:
* Volunteers rights
* Roles and responsibilities
* Consumer needs and rights
* Confidentiality and communication
All volunteers must be over the age of 18 years.
How Are the Volunteers Matched?
When the program receives a referral, the coordinator will visit the elderly person to assess their needs. The program is explained to the individual and information such as the interests and hobbies of that person is obtained. With the information supplied, the coordinator matches the client with a volunteer. The volunteer will then visit the elderly person on a regular basis. The coordinator will also visit the clients to ensure that the client is satisfied with the program.
Who Can Access this Service?
Anyone who is over 55 years of age and living alone or is socially isolated may access the service. People with a disability who are living in accommodation not funded by the government are also eligible for support.