The Community Visitors Scheme (CVS) is a national program providing companionship to socially isolated people living in aged care facilities by introducing them to visitors from the community. Residents with a cultural and linguistic background are also matched with a suitable volunteer visitor with a similar background.

The Scheme was first introduced in 1991, funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing.

The CVS plays a very important role in improving the quality of life for selected residents in aged care homes, who might be isolated or lonely due to limited family or social contact, or for cultural or disability reasons.

Volunteers play a vital role in reduscing the isolation elderly people experience.

The Burdekin CVS currently has seventeen dedicated volunteers who each visit a selected resident on a one to one basis at least fortnightly.

The CVS volunteer and the resident may read, chat, do crosswords, reminisce, listen to music, or go on walks or outings together.

By befriending the resident, volunteers have a chance to make a positive difference to their lives - as well as their own. Volunteer visitors and the residents often develop special friendships and rapport amongst themselves.

Every match illustrates the important role volunteers play in the lives of our elderly residents.

The value of the scheme to the elderly and to the aged care homes cannot be underestimated.

The generosity and capacity of volunteers to share their time with elderly people continues to reflect the commitment of individuals to their respective community.

The scheme will continue to be beneficial to residents of local aged care facilities and will continue to achieve its objectives of establishing and strengthening links between residents and the community.

The volunteers will continue to bring to life the noblest intentions on humankind - the pursuit of new friendships, an opportunity to lend a hand and a willingness to care for others without any expectations.

How to Contact the Burdekin Community Visitors Scheme -

To inquire about how to receive a home visit, or to become a CVS Volunteer, phone Rita Quagliata at the BCA - 4783 3744 or send Rita an email at the address below.