MAY I take the opportunity to inform The Border Mail’s readers about the Compeer Friendship Program which operates locally and is a special program of the St Vincent de Paul Society.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Compeer program has enriched the lives of many people both in Australia and the US, where the program began and has been operating for 36 years.
Compeer matches caring, non-judgemental volunteer friends with adult mental health sufferers who are experiencing social isolation.
Application is made to the program through the person’s health professional and matches are based on age, gender, interests, location and particular needs.
Social inclusion plays a significant role in the recovery of people living with a mental illness.
The friends agree to spend about one hour a week together sharing activities of mutual interest, outside the home and to build the relationship for a year.
Compeer surveys have shown participants feel more cared about, less lonely and better understood.
Mental illness doesn’t discriminate and affects males and females of any social status, nationality or age.
Consequently, Compeer requires a variety of volunteers and at the moment there is a particular need for male volunteers.
Compeer volunteers are rewarded by knowing they are making a significant difference in the life of an individual through a direct one-on-one relationship.
Full training and support is offered to volunteers.
For inquiries call 6025 0227 or compeer.albury@vinnies.org.au.
— JAYNE WILLIAMS,
Compeer co-ordinator, Albury
