Rainbow Connection is available in both Melbourne, Victoria and Adelaide, South Australia.
Our Services
Rainbow Connection
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For Clients: Meaningful Support and Community
Rainbow Connection pairs older LGBTIQ+ individuals who may be experiencing social isolation with volunteers for social and community support. This free service is specifically designed for older lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer (LGBTIQ+) people who may be experiencing social isolation.
This service is available in both Melbourne, Victoria and Adelaide, South Australia.
Rainbow Connection fosters genuine and enduring relationships, creating a safe space for belonging and connection within the LGBTIQ+ community.
Participants are matched with LGBTIQ+ volunteers for regular social visits. These visits might involve a friendly chat over coffee, a lunch outing, or even exploring an art gallery, all emphasising meaningful, long-term connections.
Why Join Rainbow Connection?
For many older LGBTIQ+ people, accessing aged care or support services can feel isolating due to a lack of representation or understanding. Rainbow Connection addresses this by providing:
- A Safe Space: Be matched with LGBTIQ+ volunteers who understand and respect your identity.
- Affirmation and Belonging: Enjoy companionship with a shared sense of community and understanding.
- Connection to Community: Feel valued and supported within a network that celebrates your identity.
Who Can Participate?
Older LGBTIQ+ individuals living in residential aged care or with a home care package.
How It Works:
- Sign Up or Referral: Self-referrals are welcome, and referrals can also come from aged care providers, health professionals, or family members.
- Getting Started: A Thorne Harbour staff member will visit you to explain the service and understand your preferences.
- Matching Process: Based on your preferences, we’ll pair you with a volunteer for regular social visits.
Volunteers commit to fortnightly visits for at least one year. These visits might involve a friendly chat over coffee, a lunch outing, a movie date, or even exploring an art gallery. The program emphasizes building a meaningful, long-term connection.
For Volunteers: Make a Difference
Volunteering with Rainbow Connection is a rewarding way to give back to the LGBTIQ+ community by building meaningful relationships with older individuals. Learn about the experiences and history of LGBTIQ+ people, understanding the struggle for rights and recognition many older individuals faced.
Why Volunteer?
- Create Impact: Help reduce social isolation and foster a sense of belonging for older LGBTIQ+ people.
- Celebrate Identity: Share stories, experiences, and a connection to the community.
- Build Relationships: Create genuine, long-term connections with participants.
What’s Involved?
- Commitment: Fortnightly visits for at least one year.
- Activities: Spend time chatting, sharing meals, visiting cultural events, or just enjoying each other’s company.
- Training and Support: All volunteers undergo a thorough interview process and induction to ensure they’re well-prepared to provide social support in aged care settings
Where is this service offered?
Does this service cost anything?
No, this service is completely free for participants.
How long does it take to match me with a volunteer?
Matching times vary based on factors like location and preferences. Staff will keep you updated throughout the process.
Do I need to notify my aged care provider?
If a friend, family member, or you refer yourself, there's no requirement to inform your provider. However, if referred by your facility or case manager, staff may liaise with them as needed.
Can my volunteer assist with household tasks?
No, volunteers provide companionship and social support but are not allowed to perform practical tasks or offer care advice.
What training do volunteers receive?
Volunteers are carefully interviewed and, if suitable, attend an induction program to prepare them for working in aged care settings.
What is a home care package?
Home care packages help older Australians access funding for support services that allow them to live independently at home. Learn more at: myagedcare.gov.au.
Do I need aged care experience to volunteer?
No prior experience is required; we provide all necessary training and ongoing support.
Can I volunteer with a friend or partner?
Volunteers are paired individually with participants, but we encourage friends or partners to apply separately if interested.
Contact Us:
Online: sign up as a volunteer or client with our online form.
Phone: (03) 9863 0426.
Email: rainbowconnection@thorneharbour.org.
Rainbow Connection is part of the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme(ACVVS), funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care.
