Navigating through daily activities can sometimes present challenges for people with disability or chronic illness. Whether it’s attending medical appointments, social gatherings, or simply exploring the community, the prospect of undertaking these tasks as a family can seem daunting.
Designed to provide practical assistance, the Travellers Aid’s Companion Service aims to support people and families to access essential services and participate in community activities via the public transport network. Trained volunteers are available to meet clients at public transport hubs in Melbourne, such as Southern Cross Station, and accompany them to various destinations, including medical appointments, social gatherings, work, or educational institutions.
The service caters to a diverse range of needs, from supporting Rory to attend his classes at university or supporting Janet to attend medical appointments in Melbourne, volunteer companions will be with you along the way.
For many service users it can be more than the journey itself. Companion volunteers not only provide guidance throughout the journey, they can also assist with journey planning and finding appointment locations. The service is especially helpful for regional service users attending medical appointments within Melbourne’s busy CBD.
After experiencing a traumatic and lifechanging accident, Janet researched services that would enable her to access medical appointments in Melbourne. The Travellers Aid Companion Service has supported Janet to access these appointments as well as social activities, on her terms, offering support and building confidence in navigating the public transport system as well as Melbourne’s busy CBD.
“I just want to let you know how much I value and appreciate all that you do for people like me. Helping me navigate the train platforms at Southern Cross and Seymour (between buses and trains) has meant that I am growing in confidence navigating public transport and learning how to travel independently using trains and buses.”
“Having someone to help me over the phone decide whether I need a buggy or not to get between platforms helps too. Since working with the staff, I have learnt what I can navigate for myself, if I have time, and gradually [they have] given me confidence to step outside of Southern Cross to navigate small steps outside the building to even catch a tram — which I did for the first time in four-and-a-half years.”
To use this service, you must be at least 18 years old (or accompanied by a guardian if under 18) and have a disability or chronic illness. You must also be capable of transferring independently or with the assistance of a mobility aid. Clients are responsible for covering their personal transport costs, while the service itself is provided free of charge. Booking can be easily arranged through the service’s website or by calling 1300 700 399.
For those seeking support, the Companion Service offers a reliable and accessible solution, providing support while building confidence and capability to travel independently.
For more information about Travellers Aid and their services, please see travelleraid.org.au
