Chat & Connect
What is Chat & Connect?
Chat & Connect is a part of the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS), a national program funded by the Australian Government. It is a long running and well regarded program that has been operating across Australia for more than 30 years. The aim is to improve the quality of life for people living in aged care facilities or at home and in receipt of a Home Care Package who may face loneliness and social isolation.
Visits are relaxed and social in nature, providing friendship, companionship and a link to the community. Volunteer visitors bring a friendly and empathetic new face to share conversation, news, and friendship.
Am I eligible for Chat & Connect?
Visits are available to anyone receiving government-subsidised residential aged care or home care packages, including people who are approved and waiting for residential care or a home care package.
What are the benefits for me?
Regular visits from a Chat & Connect volunteer can help you:
- To feel connected
- To improve your quality of life and help you feel less socially isolated
- To have a sense of purpose
- Maintain or increase independence
Who will visit me?
The ACVVS Coordinator from Mount Barker District Council gathers information about your needs, preferences and interests and interviews Chat & Connect volunteers about their interests. The Coordinator will then match a volunteer to you.
The ACVVS Coordinator ensures that each older person is:
- matched well with a volunteer
- enjoying the visits and
- improving their wellbeing through having a Chat & Connect volunteer.
Volunteers are committed to developing and sustaining a friendship with an older person over a period of time, and we ensure they have a genuine interest in helping older people to stay socially involved and connected to their communities.
How do I arrange a visit from a Chat & Connect volunteer?
You may self-refer or be referred to the program by someone who thinks you can benefit from regular visits. This could be an aged-care provider, healthcare professional, a neighbour or family member.
What will the visits be like?
Once a volunteer is arranged to visit you once a fortnight, you can spend the time doing something you both enjoy. Each visit will bring new conversation and shared stories. The visit may also include:
- Reading
- Listening to music
- Working on a hobby
- Learning something new
- Actively discussing local news or issues
- Attending a community group or going on an outing
It is worth considering activities that provide a sense of purpose or achievement which studies have shown can further improve your wellbeing.
Further information
If you would like more information about Chat & Connect, please contact the Community Programs Team.
6 Dutton Road (PO Box 54)
MOUNT BARKER SA 5251
Tel (08) 8391 7234