Friends share a language

Imagine if everything sounded foreign to you or if you were isolated by not being able to speak with people in your own mother tongue.

The Illawarra Ethnic Communities Council (IECC) aims to take away those feelings of isolation for elderly people from non-English speaking or ethnic backgrounds by providing them with companionship to help them to participate in community life and meet their need for social contact.

Antonia Schoonderbeek of Barrack Heights came to Australia from Holland and has been part of the IECC’s program for last two years.

“My friend did it and I decided to ask for some help too,” Ms Schoonderbeek said.

“Since then I have had Sylvia as my friend.

“She helps me to do the shopping, keeps me company and helps me if I have to call to see a doctor.

“I think the program is a very good idea when you are alone,” Ms Schoonderbeek said.

IECC in-home social support co-ordinator Gabby Sloane said volunteers who could speak another language were desperately needed.

“The volunteers provide companionship, help with writing letters, attending medical appointments, providing support to attend a social activity, accompanying them to do the shopping, banking or pay bills,” Ms Sloane said.

“It is similar to a neighbour aid by helping people to remain independent at home as long as possible.

“The difference is that in this case, the emphasis is on companionship.”

Ms Sloane said the IECC welcomed all volunteers.

“We are particularly desperate for Arabic, Polish, Ukrainian, Greek, Macedonian and Spanish speakers.

“If volunteers could give even two hours a week or a fortnight that would be wonderful.

“We will provide training as required,” Ms Sloane said.

“A worker will also accompany the volunteer the first few times to help out.”

If you can assist, please contact Gabby at the Illawarra Ethnic Communities Council on 4229 7566.