Rochester and Elmore District Health Service is urging community members to step up and volunteer.
As the completion of the hospital’s rebuild draws closer, the service is relaunching its volunteer program in preparation for its return to site in late December.
REDHS is seeking between 10 and 20 new volunteers to assist in various programs and roles around the hospital.
REDHS chief executive Darren Clark said the volunteers helped enhance the programs they ran and supported their clients.
“It’s no doubt that [volunteers] ease the load but it also just enhances our programs because they help with the maintenance of independence for our community and client base,” he said.
“They give so much support in the physical, emotional and social spaces for our individuals.”
Volunteering with the hospital allows people to give back to the community while also developing new skills and experiences.
Currently, volunteers are needed to help assist in: art and craft, reading newspapers and short stories, welcome to REDHS/meet and greet, outdoor garden activities, general outdoor activities, room visits (sit and chats), drivers/bus trips, helping residents with technology use, assisting residents with walks, weekend activities, provide support within admin team, provide support in the REDHS café and assisting at meal times.
Anyone interested in applying for a volunteer role is encouraged to complete an application form.
There are no skills or certifications needed to become a volunteer; however, applicants must provide proof of COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations as well as undergo a police check.
Applications can be found at redhs.com.au/get-involved/volunteering/