Community Visits Go Virtual – A Chat with CVS participant Peg Utting

CBCHS is a proud provider of the Community Visitors Scheme (CVS). This is an Australian Government-funded program to help enrich the quality of life for people who are socially isolated or lonely, living at home or in aged care facilities.

As well as providing social contact and companionship for CVS participants, the program also offers great rewards for the volunteer visitors who are able to connect with and learn from people they would not ordinarily meet.  In fact, many wonderful long-term friendships have developed thanks to the scheme.

To protect the health and wellbeing of residents and volunteer visitors during COVID-19, visits are currently being conducted remotely rather than face-to-face.  This includes Zoom meetings, emails, phone calls and letters.

As part of National Volunteer Week, we spoke to CVS participant Peg Utting. At 97-years-young, Peg has embraced fortnightly phone catch-ups with her volunteer visitor Amrita Ahluwalia, who is also our General Manager Business Development and Disability Services.

What do you think about the Community Visitors Scheme?

I think the Scheme is wonderful.

What do you like the most about connecting with your volunteer visitor? 

Having a meaningful conversation without interruption.

Are you looking forward to returning to face-to-face visits?

Yes, one on one visits are so friendly.

What have you found most challenging about the current COVID-19 Pandemic?

I try to keep myself motivated both physically and mentally.

For more information on the CVS program, please visit https://www.cbchs.org.au/get-involved/volunteers/community-visitors-scheme/

If you are interested in joining the CVS program for virtual visits with a resident living in an aged care facility, or a person living in their own home, please phone 8587 0296 or email volunteers@cbchs.org.au