Befriending services
Sometimes the thought of getting out and about may be daunting, especially if you do not have anyone to go with. The Red Cross social connection programs can support you and link you to other people and your community. Programs include home visits, social outings, group activities, peer support and social phone calls. Red Cross has services in ACT, NSW, SA, TAS, VIC and WA. Many programs will match you with a volunteer based on your interests and values, to be your companion so you can build up a friendship over time.
Visit the Red Cross website for more information. https://www.redcross.org.au/get-help/community-services/companionship-social-support. The Community Visitors Scheme (CVS) arranges volunteer visits to older people to provide friendship and companionship. Visits are available to anyone receiving government-subsidised residential aged care or Home Care Packages. To find your local CVS member, visit https://www.health.gov.au/contacts?search_api_views_fulltext=cvs%20network. FriendLine is a national support line run by not-for-profit, Friends for Good. The support line is operated by friendly volunteers for anyone that wants to reconnect or just wants a chat. To connect with a local volunteer in your state, visit https://friendline.org.au/?url=/