THE Mid North Coast Community Visitors Scheme (CVS) is seeking new volunteers and is recruiting now.

CVS is a local provider of an Australian Government initiative for socially-isolated elderly people residing in aged care facilities.

That’s older folk probably rarely seeing family or friends other than fellow residents in their facility.

Jan Gaunt coordinates CVS in the Coffs Coast region, extending from Woolgoolga, Coffs, Raleigh, Bellingen, Dorrigo, and into the Nambucca Valley region to Nambucca and Macksville.

“I am looking for anyone who would be interested in offering ongoing friendship to individual residents in one of the local aged care facilities, in a convenient location near you,” Jan told News Of The Area.

“Also, if someone was interested in providing small group sessions, i.e craft/conversations/music or whatever you think they may enjoy, this would also be very welcome.

“Residents love the opportunity to engage, share, and interact with their visitor and each other.

“I especially need new visitors in the Bellingen/Raleigh areas,” said Jan.

Mary, a Community Visitor, has been visiting Fred at his nursing home for 20 months.

Mary says, “I really look forward to seeing Fred each week, we get on so well.

“Fred lost his wife just before I met him and was very down.

“Gradually over the months, he has perked up, and loves to chat about life on the farm he and his wife ran, and the funny things that happened.

“I get a big smile from him when I walk through the door, and says to me, ‘Well, Mary love, what’s on the agenda today?’” said Mary.

For potential volunteer visitors, Jan says there’s a number of lonely, isolated residents who would appreciate your time and interest.

Many of the people CVS visits are without immediate family or friends.

“All you need is a couple of hours or so a week of your time.”

“You will be matched with your own special resident.”

Activities can range from having a chat, a walk in the gardens, or going out for a cuppa.

If you are interested in befriending an elderly nursing home resident, and for more information, please phone Jan on 6648 3662 Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays at the Community Village, Earl St, Coffs Harbour, 2450.

“I look forward to hearing from you,” encouraged Jan.

By Andrea FERRARI