Sophie Conlon
THE Limestone Coast Health Network is calling out for community members to help out across the district by becoming volunteer transport drivers.
Network volunteer coordinator Tracey Anderson urged more people to consider putting up their hand to volunteer and help make a powerful impact in their community.
“Our volunteers are the driving force behind social change, they are turning their passion into purpose, and they give their time to make a difference,“ she said.
“It really feels lovely to be back and in such an exciting space, working with our amazing volunteers.“
Across the network there is a need for volunteer transport drivers to ensure patients have access to safe and reliable transport.
Network volunteer transport driver Jackie Lerwill said she found volunteering rewarding.
“I particularly enjoy helping transport people who find it hard to get to the hospital,“ she said.
“We chat on the way and it’s nice hearing other people’s stories and connecting with them.“
Fellow volunteer driver Daryl Isgar said he enjoyed giving back to the service which once helped him.
While Tori Ransom said she enjoyed building friendships with staff and patients when she was volunteering.
“I like to give back to the community as there are so many who rely on our transport service,“ she said.
The volunteer drivers provide rides for a range of people including renal patients, helping them attend their regular dialysis appointments and then return home once their treatment is complete.
New to her role, Ms Anderson said she was looking forward to supporting the team through their volunteering journeys.
“There are many reasons why you might consider volunteering with LCLHN, we are very flexible and are always looking for new team members,“ she said.
“We are actively recruiting new volunteers across multiple sites, departments, and positions.“
Volunteers are also being sought to provide elderly patients with social interaction, assist with meals and entertainment, as well as supporting social support groups across the region, hospital guide roles and in the new Mealtime Support Program at the Mount Gambier and Districts Health Service.
