When Kerry Bellamy moved to Lakes Entrance, she was looking for activities for her and five-year-old King Charles Spaniel, Tilly, to keep busy.
Having volunteered in their previous home of Shepparton at the hospital, they knew helping others was their thing.
Now the pair are regular visitors at
Gippsland Lakes Complete Health’s (GLCH) social support programs.
Tilly, who prefers to be known as a princess rather than a King Charles Spaniel, lifts the atmosphere as soon as she arrives.
GLCH offers social support programs at its Jemmeson Street site in Lakes Entrance to help people connect with others in the community, and there is currently space for new participants.
“We keep coming up here because we love spreading the joy,” Kerry said.
“You see how happy Tilly makes people.”
After an hour of soaking up attention, Tilly heads home for a well-earned rest.
“We’re going to head home and have a treat for being a good little girl,” Kerry said.
“Then she’ll lie on mum and dad’s bed, aka Tilly’s bed, for the rest of the day.”
Kerry encouraged others in the community to consider volunteering.
“Just go for it,” she said.
“You make people’s lives a bit better, and you walk away feeling really lovely yourself for doing something kind. Without being too corny, it’s just lovely.”
Social Support participant Joan Waites, from Lakes Entrance, said visits from Kerry and Tilly lifted the mood.
“I like the company here, and I like the animals too,” Joan said.
“It’s very nice to have Tilly come and visit, it’s a change.
“I had a dog like her a long, long time ago. I think it just makes people happy. Most people like animals, particularly dogs.”
GLCH is currently recruiting volunteers to support its Social Support program, as well as other initiatives including Meals on
Wheels and the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program.
Social Support places are also available for people wanting to connect with others in a safe and inclusive environment.
GLCH encourages NDIS support workers, Support at Home care partners and participants to get in touch to find out more about the social programs.
