Age Concern Waikato Expands Services into Rural and Remote Communities

Age Concern Waikato has taken an exciting step forward in extending its services to older people living in the rural and remote areas of the Waikato. This expansion includes communities such as Te Kauwhata, Huntly, Ngāruawāhia, Raglan, Otorohanga, Te Kuiti, Putaruru, Tirau, Morrinsville, Matamata, Te Aroha, Cambridge, Te Awamutu and surrounding districts.

Recognising that people are living longer and that older adults in rural areas deserve the same access to services as those in cities, Age Concern Waikato has appointed Monique Jeffs as its first Rural Development Specialist (March 2025). Working alongside Martin Popperwell, Hamilton Social Connector, Monique is focused on developing strong connections and support networks for older people across the region.

“Our vision is to ensure that every older person, no matter where they live, feels connected, supported and valued,” says Monique.

A Mission of Connection and Care

Age Concern Waikato is a leading organisation that connects, supports, empowers, celebrates, and respects all older people in an inclusive community. The organization provides a range of services throughout the region, including:

• Elder abuse response services
• Social connection groups
• Mobility and transport assistance
• Educational programs and guest speakers
• Driver refresher courses
• Technology and digital learning opportunities
• Advocacy and support, particularly in health and social service navigation

Rural Volunteer Visitor Program

One of the first major rural projects is the creation of a Volunteer Visitor Team — a group of caring individuals who offer friendship and support to older people who may be lonely, isolated, or housebound.

Loneliness is a common issue for many older adults, especially when a spouse has passed away, family live far away, or health and mobility challenges make socialising difficult.

Volunteers of all ages are welcome and are carefully screened and trained before being matched with an older person for regular visits.

Volunteer criteria include:

• Must be over 18 years old.
• Warm, friendly, and a good listener
• Respectful of confidentiality and diverse cultures
• Willing to spend at least one hour per week visiting.

To ensure safety, volunteers complete a police vetting process, provide two references, and receive training on maintaining professional boundaries — such as not managing money, advising on medication, or providing counselling. Any issues or concerns are referred directly to the Rural Development Specialist.

Training and Safety

Volunteers undergo orientation covering topics such as:

• Managing mobility and potential hazards (e.g., tripping risks in the home)
• Choosing safe public places for outings
• Handling unexpected or challenging behaviour
• Recognizing when to refer for extra support

Each volunteer is thoughtfully matched with an older person to ensure compatibility and shared interests. As relationships grow, volunteers may help connect their new friends with additional community services, such as gardening assistance or transport options.

A Free, Heartfelt Service

This free service provides older people with something truly special — a friendly face and a regular visit to look forward to. It is a simple yet powerful way to reduce loneliness and strengthen community connections.

“The caring of Age Concern Waikato is wrapped around them,” says Martin. “It’s about friendship, trust, and reminding people they’re not forgotten — no matter where they live.”