Volunteer With Us

Looking to Volunteer?

Are you looking for an important and rewarding volunteer role that will contribute to a more compassionate community?

Our dedicated team of volunteers are the true heart of our organisation, and essential to the valuable work we do. Each year they generously provide around 1800 hours of in-home support and strengthen essential support systems around people at the end of life.

Our volunteers say that working with us is a rewarding way for them to give back to the community, while making beautiful connections with people who are grateful for their support. They feel they are a valued part of the Hospice team and appreciate the social and learning opportunities they receive.

We have roles for volunteers in our Hospice in the Home program, and roles that support the operation of the organisation. If you would like to join our volunteer team read on.

Hospice in the Home Volunteer Role

We occasionally have roles for volunteers to support the broader work of Warrnambool & District Community Hospice by assisting with activities such as fundraising, promotion, events, administration, cleaning and maintenance.

Volunteers assist in a variety of ways, including:

Companionship and socialisation for people at the end of life.
Respite for caregivers to maintain their own wellbeing and responsibilities.
Practical in-home support with hygiene, meals and daily household activities.
Transport to shops, medical appointments and activities.

What experience is required?
There is no education or work experience requirements to become a Hospice in the Home Volunteer. We welcome people from varied backgrounds with a caring nature and commitment to our values of compassion, care, community and choice.

Recruitment & Training

The intake of new Hospice in the Home Volunteers usually happens once a year with recruitment starting in October in preparation for the Volunteer Training Program early the following year.

The Volunteer Training Program has been designed to prepare participants for becoming a Hospice in the Home volunteer, and ensure they feel comfortable and confident in their role.

There are 20 hours of training delivered over 3 weeks by our staff and local trainers with experience providing end-of-life care. The program is based on training modules developed by Palliative Care Victoria, as well as a ‘hands-on’ practical component to ensure the safety of volunteers and the people they support.

Application Process

Register

Register your interest by completing the volunteer application form, or contacting the Support Coordinator via email or (03) 5563 3220.

Attend an Interview

During the recruitment period, applicants will be invited to attend an informal interview to determine their suitability for the role.

Volunteer screening

Applicants will be required to provide contact details for 2 personal or professional referees, and agree to National Criminal History and Working with Children checks.

Ongoing Support for Volunteers

Hospice in the Home volunteers are managed by two Support Coordinators who are always available to provide guidance and support. They also receive regular opportunities for learning and social interaction with other volunteers.

Support Volunteer Role

There is no formal training for Support Volunteers, however they do need a National Criminal History check and sign a volunteer agreement.

To register your interest in becoming a Support Volunteer, please contact the Support Coordinator via email or (03) 5563 3220.

Meet Our Volunteers

Meet just a handful of the wonderful, compassionate and dedicated volunteers who support the work of Warrnambool & District Community Hospice.

Heather Heath

Heather was part of the first volunteer group we trained and remains one of our most active volunteers. As well as providing in-home support, Heather hosts our monthly Cuppa Club bereavement support group. She became a Hospice in the Home volunteer to do something worthwhile in retirement and loves the sense of satisfaction that comes after each visit, knowing she has made a difference. Heather feels that it is a privilege to be trusted to care for people, and to feel the gratitude for her support, even if it is something small like sitting, talking and listening.

David Mathison

He might be retired from his career in small business, but David is busier than ever wearing several volunteer hats with Warrnambool & District Community Hospice and the Koroit Lions Club. After joining our Committee of Management in 2023, David decided to train as a Hospice in the Home volunteer and has been regularly supporting local people and families. Having previous personal experience caring for a friend at the end of life, David knows how valuable it is to be there for people at such a challenging time, and how important it is that caregivers get the chance to take a break.

Dr Eric Fairbank

After founding the organisation and stepping down as President in 2018, Eric has continued to regularly volunteer with Warrnambool & District Community Hospice. As well as being our strongest and most passionate advocate, Eric contributes as a trainer to our new volunteers, as a presenter of our End of Life Preparation Workshops and as a Hospice in the Home volunteer. Eric is extremely proud to continue his involvement and see the vision he shared with Deidre Bidmade come to life.