Community Visitors' Scheme

The Community Visitors' Scheme is a national program funded by the Commonwealth Government. The Scheme aims to enrich the life of lonely or isolated residents who would benefit from a friendly visitor in local aged care homes and hostels. This program is in its 15th year with Melville Cares and is coordinated by Avril Eady-Rivers.

A match is made between the visitor and the resident based on similar interests or lifestyle backgrounds. The visitor will visit their new friend at least once a fortnight and chat, reminisce, listen to music or have morning or afternoon tea together. If the resident is able they might take a walk, or go on an outing.

Having a visitor can help the resident feel more valued and respected and it increases their sense of well being and strengthens their connection to the community. Support meetings for the volunteers with guest speakers and activities are held monthly. The volunteers in this program have varied interests and background life stories to share and a great understanding of the importance of the visit to their friend.