Compeer is an internationally affiliated volunteer friendship program for people living with a mental illness. Since its inception in the USA in 1973, Compeer has become internationally recognized as a valuable adjunct to traditional medical treatment. Compeer has been operating in Australia under the auspices of the St Vincent de Paul Society since 1995.
Based on the principle of the Power of Friendship, Compeer matches volunteers in one to one friendship with people who have become socially isolated due to mental illness. As in any friendship, volunteers and their friends spend time together enjoying activities such as chatting over a cup of coffee, going to the movies or visiting places.
The friendship is supported by Compeer staff and the health professional applying to the program.
Becoming a volunteer
Compeer volunteers come from all walks of life and are friendly, emotionally mature people who want to make a difference. So, if you are looking for a flexible volunteering opportunity and can commit to 4 hours a month for 12 months, please contact your nearest Compeer office.
Becoming a friend
Compeer friends are people who have a diagnosed mental illness (such as Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, depression, anxiety and eating disorders) and who need social support to rediscover a sense of fun and friendship.
Compeer friends apply to the program with their chosen health professional (case manager, social worker, nurse, psychiatrist, GP) and have a plan to effectively manage their illness.
For more information please contact your nearest Compeer office.
For Health Professionals
If you have a client that you think would benefit from the Compeer program, please contact your local Compeer office for an application pack or to discuss the needs of your client. Please note that Compeer friends need to be in the recovery phase of their illness and be engaged in ongoing treatment with the applying health professional.
Hurstville covers St George, Sutherland, southern and south west Sydney (excluding Campbelltown) Ph: 02 9568 0237 Email: compeer.hurstville@vinnies.org.au
