Volunteer Peer Counsellors available to help seniors

Few people go through life without needing a sympathetic listener to help during troubled times. Seniors have their share of problems. Loss of a loved one or a change in lifestyle may be an issue. Professionals and clergy may be available to offer encouragement, however there are times when it’s good to talk things over with someone from the same age group.

Seniors Serving Seniors (SSS) offers free one-to-one personal counselling by non- professional volunteer counsellors. Senior Peer Counsellors help their peers get more in touch with their own feelings and gain a clearer understanding of their situations.

Peer counselling has been a community resource in the Capital Region since 1986. If you are a senior in Victoria experiencing loss, depression, social isolation, family issues or declining health, you may be eligible for free counselling services provided by SSS.

Senior Peer Counsellors complete over 40 hours of training in listening skills, and must successfully clear a criminal record search prior to seeing a client. They will visit a client periodically until their issue is resolved. Seniors who use the service have stated that the understanding and support of the counsellor have greatly assisted them in difficult situations. If you would like a counsellor to visit you, phone Jane at SSS at: 250-382-4331. There is no obligation.