Wollongong City Council, NSW Ageing, Disability and Home Care, is calling for volunteers to help with the respite service for carers of people with a disability and frail older people.

Volunteers who work with the service provide relief for carers and companionship for clients while their permanent carer has time off to relax.

Respite for clients with high level support needs is provided by professional staff on contract, while trained volunteers spend time with people who have lower support needs.

Council’s Manager of Community Cultural and Library Services, Jenny Thompson said that the program allows relief staff and volunteers to provide in home companionship for clients, to go for an outing such as coffee, lunch, the movies, or to go for a walk or for a drive.

“Volunteers are matched with a client who lives within 15km of their home and all out of pocket expenses are reimbursed. We currently have 20 clients but only 8 volunteers and while our existing volunteers do a fantastic job, we would really welcome more support for the program from people who are interested in becoming a volunteer.”

Referrals and enquiries can be made to the project officer on 4227 7128. All referrals will be assessed and prioritised.

For more information on how to volunteer for the service please contact the project officer on 4227 7128.