Volunteer

 

Become a volunteer biographer (Note: we operate in Victoria only)

Are you:

  • Interested in life stories?
  • Able to visit aged care and enjoy the company of the elderly?

If so, you may be interested in becoming a Volunteer Biographer.  The application form is at the end of this page – please read through the requirements and the position description on this page for more information.

High level spoken and written English and an ability to communicate clearly are essential.  You must also be:

  • Available during business hours
  • Willing to learn our processes and procedures and use of a tape recorder and our Word templates
  • Able to commit to 1 hour per week sessions with clients (for around 6-10 weeks) plus a minimum of 4 hours per week transcribing at home
  • Have your own computer and printing and scanning facilities
  • Be able to travel to aged care facilities around Melbourne, Geelong or the central highlands of Victoria*.
We regularly invite people in the community to be trained as a volunteer biographer and acceptance into the program is subject to a screening interview, police check and completion of three days of training.
 
Beyond Words offers comprehensive training to volunteers preparing them in their new role and trainees have a chance to further develop their skills around communication, listening, knowledge of aged care, technical transcribing & editing support, the biography process and self-care.
 
Please see the Position Description and the FAQ page for more information.
 
The document below outlines joining Beyond Words as a volunteer and working with your first client.
 
 

 
 

Supervision of Biographers

While the simple act of listening to a person’s life story is in itself a privilege, we know that biographers work best with clear personal boundaries and ongoing support from a professional Program Coordinator who manages referrals from the aged care team and supports the work and well-being of volunteers.

To register your interest in becoming a volunteer biographer, please complete our application form.

If you would like further information before applying, please call Suzanne, our Operations and Volunteer Coordinator on 0403 771 571 or email: suzanne@beyondwords.org.au

*We would like to expand into other regional areas, such as Bendigo.  Please still register your interest if you live in regional Victoria.