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Wesley CHAT
Wesley CHAT aims to reconnect socially isolated older people with important aspects of their lives and their community by teaching them to use a computer.
Participants are matched with a trained local volunteer who teaches them basic computer skills including:
- internet and email
- basic word processing skills
- how to make and send greeting cards
- how to play card games
The program also offers volunteers the opportunity for meaningful involvement with older people.
If you know someone who could benefit from the service, or have an interest in volunteering, please contact us for more information.
Benefits for Participants »
Become a Volunteer »
Contact Us (Regional offices)»
Benefits for Participants
Wesley CHAT offers older people the opportunity to stretch their imaginations and believe in their ability to learn and to focus – an important part of mental health, longevity and community spirit. The benefits are many and varied:
- opportunity to learn a new skill in a non-threatening and supportive environment
- increased mental activity and alertness
- opportunity for inter-generational communication
- a valuable new form of communication with families who live far away
- recreation
- enhanced confidence and self-esteem
- flexible training that meets individual needs and learning styles
- life-long learning
- ability to participate in and feel valued by the community
- meaningful volunteering opportunities
Become a Volunteer
If you'd like to become a Wesley CHAT volunteer, simply read the FAQs below and submit your details using the online registration form »
A Police Records Check is mandatory for all volunteer positions.
What is the time commitment?
We ask volunteers to be available to spend 1-2 hours a week or fortnight with one or more socially isolated older person/s.
What are the goals of a volunteer?
- teach basic computer skills in a friendly and supportive manner
- plan on small but achievable goals
- work towards the older person being able to complete basic email and other functions unaided
- be friendly, helpful and non-intrusive
- discourage gossip and respect confidences
- build a trusting relationship
What skills do I need?
We expect volunteers to be proficient in basic computer skills, including but not limited to:
- switching the computer on and off
- keyboard and mouse operation
- starting and exiting Windows
- starting and exiting Windows applications (such as Microsoft Word, card games and other third party software)
- cut and paste technique
- drag and drop technique
- using passwords for email
- using Outlook to send and receive email
- set up and use the address book
- using a web browser to use search engines
We offer refresher courses that enable volunteers to brush up on their skills – so don't hesitate to apply if you're a bit rusty or not very confident. Our team will bring you up to speed.
Contact Us (Regional offices)
Eastern Region:
Suite 1, 168 Boronia Road
Boronia VIC 3155
Phone: (03) 9762 5211
Fax: (03) 9762 5390
Email: docareeast@wesley.org.au |
Northern Region:
32 Turnham Avenue
Rosanna VIC 3084
Phone: (03) 9459 2166
Fax: (03) 9459 6871
Email: docarenorth@wesley.org.au |
Southern Region:
Suite 2, Level 4, Plaza Business Centre
26 McCrae Street
Dandenong VIC 3175
Phone: (03) 9771 6111
Fax: (03) 9771 6140
Email: docaresouth@wesley.org.au |
Western Region:
Level 1, 154 Nicholson Street
Footscray VIC 3011
Phone: (03) 9687 7742
Fax: (03) 9689 7326
Email: docarewest@wesley.org.au |
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