News

International AIDS Day: Remembering the volunteer response

  • by Volunteer Hub
  • December 1, 2016

From the mid-1980s to mid-1990s volunteers from AIDS and other organisations rallied to support those suffering and dying from AIDS.

The initial focus of care was palliation at home. Management of volunteer effort was impressive. In some cases teams of up to 30 volunteers provided 24/7 care for individuals at home including sleep over shifts.

Mike Kennedy, now with Palliative Care Victoria, was part of the AIDS Council response as a volunteer. Speaking at the 2016 PCV Conference Mike described the ‘real sense of crisis’ behind the grass-roots response by volunteers offering palliative care at home.

The volunteer-led movement not only contributed to improved quality of life and death for people with AIDS, but over time led to extended quantum of life reflected by longer and longer rosters.

On International AIDS Day, 1 December, we remember the legacy of care by volunteers in the response to AIDS and the relationship forged between people with AIDS, palliative care and volunteering.

Upcoming Events

Beyond the Biography: Reflective writing for well-being
UPCOMING
  • MAY 9, 2024
  • 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Beyond the Biography: Reflective writing for well-being

Beyond the Biography: Reflective writing for well-being. Presented by Dr Hi...

Read more
NSW Network of Managers of Palliative Care Volunteers – June meeting
UPCOMING
  • JUNE 13, 2024
  • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NSW Network of Managers of Palliative Care Volunteers – June meeting

The role of the Network is to ensure best practice for NSW Managers of Pall...

Read more
NSW Network of Managers of Palliative Care Volunteers – September meeting
UPCOMING
  • SEPTEMBER 12, 2024
  • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NSW Network of Managers of Palliative Care Volunteers – September meeting

The role of the Network is to ensure best practice for NSW Managers of Pall...

Read more

Become a member of Palliative Care NSW

Palliative Care New South Wales is the peak body in NSW representing palliative care providers and those with an interest in palliative care. Palliative Care New South Wales is a member of the national peak body Palliative Care Australia.

Join today and receive discounts, benefits and more!
Special member rate available for volunteers.

Subscribe to our eNews

Be the first to know our latest new, events, and research!

SUBSCRIBE TO ENEWS