Volunteering in this role is all about connection. We’re looking for warm, friendly people who enjoy chatting, listening, and encouraging others while enjoying a walk in the fresh air.

This is a relaxed and social volunteer opportunity, but it also calls for empathy, compassion, patience, and a genuine interest in supporting people. Through conversation, companionship, and shared experiences, volunteers play an important role in helping reduce social isolation and the stigma often associated with a dementia diagnosis.

To build meaningful relationships and a sense of familiarity, we ask volunteers to make an ongoing commitment. By volunteering regularly, you'll help create a welcoming and supportive environment where people can enjoy gentle exercise, build friendships, and remain socially connected.

Volunteers with a personal or professional connection to dementia, aged care, or community support are highly regarded, although this is not essential.

Our Walking Group is held on Friday mornings in Yarralumla, Canberra, providing people living with dementia the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, gentle physical activity, and meaningful social connection in a safe and supportive environment. While participants are able to walk independently, volunteers and staff provide encouragement, companionship, and help foster a friendly, inclusive group atmosphere.

About Dementia Australia

Dementia Australia is the national peak body supporting people of all ages living with all forms of dementia, along with their families and carers. We provide advocacy, support services, education, and information.

Social connection plays an important role in maintaining wellbeing and quality of life for people living with dementia. People experiencing cognitive changes can be at greater risk of loneliness, social isolation, and reduced opportunities to engage with others. Through inclusive social experiences, compassionate support, and person-centred care, we help people remain active, connected, and involved in their communities.

Our volunteers play an essential role in helping people:

• Live meaningful and connected lives
• Build friendships and social connections
• Feel accepted, safe, and included
• Maintain a sense of belonging and purpose
• Reduce social isolation and loneliness
• Continue participating in community life
• Support their physical, emotional, and overall wellbeing

The impact of genuine conversation, kindness, and compassion can make a significant difference in the lives of people living with dementia.

As a volunteer, you'll support trained Dementia Australia staff and help create an enjoyable and inclusive walking group. You may:

• Walk alongside participants, offering friendly conversation and companionship
• Encourage social interaction and group participation
• Help create a welcoming, relaxed, and supportive atmosphere
• Assist staff in maintaining group cohesion during walks
• Share in conversations and enjoy the benefits of spending time outdoors together

As a Dementia Australia volunteer, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Be part of the national peak body for dementia
• Develop new skills and gain valuable experience
• Meet and connect with like-minded people
• Gain a greater understanding of dementia and available supports
• Build confidence in engaging with and supporting people living with dementia
• Help contribute to our vision of a world without dementia discrimination

Volunteers are supported through:

• Role-specific orientation and training
• Ongoing learning opportunities
• A supportive and safe volunteering environment
• Recognition and appreciation for the contribution you make

Volunteering is a meaningful way to give your time while creating genuine connections and improving the quality of life of others.

We'd love to hear from you if you have:

• A warm, welcoming, and patient approach
• A genuine interest in connecting with others
• Great communication and listening skills
• Compassion, empathy, and respect for people from diverse backgrounds
• Enjoy spending time outdoors and walking at a relaxed pace
• A willingness to provide practical support to participants and staff
• The ability to commit to an ongoing roster

Experience supporting someone living with dementia is desirable, but not essential.

Volunteers will be required to:

• Be over 18 years of age
• Commit to an ongoing roster
• Participate in an interview
• Complete reference, industry, and National Police checks (at Dementia Australia's cost)
• Attend induction and orientation session
• Participate in ongoing learning and training opportunities

Your time, conversation, and encouragement can help create a space where people feel welcomed, valued, and connected, proving that sometimes the simplest walk can have the greatest impact.