Kind and caring people needed

‘‘Some of my best volunteers have been in their late 50s or early 60s.’’

Mature and compassionate people with a bit of free time are in hot demand.

Victim Support Counties Manukau needs more volunteers across South Auckland.

Service co-ordinator Alanna Howard and acting area manager Grace Chan-Nuualiitia say the most need is in Manurewa, Otahuhu, Mangere, Papatoetoe and Papakura.

‘‘We need people to do frontline volunteer work as well as courtsupport,’’ Howard says.

‘‘They might be able to book the full three weeks to go to a homicide trial or support someone for one day at a district court.

‘‘They’ll support the victim and family through hearings and the trial and sentencing [if there’s a conviction].’’

Full training is provided with the next volunteer intake in November.

A full driver’s licence and basic computer skills are among the key prerequisites and volunteers need to be aged 18 or older.

Howard says the sort of people who would suit the role are mature and have ‘‘life experience’’.

‘‘They need to be a person who can compartmentalise things and not take on someone else’s drama or grief. It’s their journey, not yours.

‘‘On the odd occasion they may see unpleasant things but most people can cope with that.’’

Chan-Nuualiitia says being able to speak a second language would be useful for volunteers.

‘‘It’s also important they have good verbal and written English language skills.’’

The organisation has a ‘‘buddy’’ system so new volunteers are teamed up with ones who are experienced, Chan-Nuualiitia says.

‘‘That’s until we’re comfortable they’re confident to deal with it on their own.’’

Howard says senior citizens or retired people might like to consider becoming volunteers.

‘‘Some of my best volunteers have been in their late 50s or early 60s.’’

Victim Support provides a free 24-7 community response to help the victims of serious crime and trauma.

Volunteers offer practical and emotional support to victims, as well as information, referrals to other support agencies, and advocate for their rights.

They’re put on a roster and cover shifts that normally last at least four hours. People interested in volunteering their time can go to victimsupport.org.nz or phone 0800 865 868 for details.