Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect is a free service for people supporting a family member, friend or loved one experiencing mental health challenges, substance use or neurodivergence. Our approach is guided by lived and living experience, creating spaces where people feel heard, understood and supported.
Through the Lived Experience Carer Support Volunteer Program, people with caring experience can support other carers and help create inclusive spaces that are easy for everyone to access.
About the volunteer role
As a volunteer, you will use your lived experience to help carers feel supported and understood. You might help with:
- welcoming carers in person or over the phone
- recording basic information (with guidance)
- supporting carer groups and informal catch‑ups
- simple admin tasks
- helping run programs or activities
- assisting with community engagement
You will always be supported and never expected to manage situations on your own.
We welcome people with lived or liviving experience of caring for someone with:
- mental health challenges
- substance use challenges
- neurodivergence
We’re looking for people who bring:
- compassion and empathy
- a non‑judgemental approach
- good communication skills
- respect for privacy and boundaries
- willingness to learn, listen and collaborate
If you’re unsure whether this is the right fit for you, please reach out. We’re here to help.
Volunteering with Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect gives you the chance to:
- build confidence and develop skills
- connect with your community
- support fellow carers in meaningful ways
- find purpose and belonging
- help shape carer support across Victoria
You’ll receive training, supervision and ongoing support.
- respect confidentiality and people’s privacy
- follow Wellways policies and guidance
- uphold our values of respect, inclusion and empathy
- ask for support when needed
Every day looks a little different. You might:
- shadow a staff member
- help prepare a group
- chat with carers (with staff present)
- contribute to a project
- work on tasks that match your skills and interests
We’ll work at your pace and support you to shape the role in a way that feels right for you.
Giving back to my community
“Volunteering has been a true privilege — working alongside compassionate people, supporting young carers and giving back to my community. Being part of something that genuinely makes a difference in young people’s lives has been incredibly rewarding.”
– Margherita, volunteer
Get involved
Be part of a community that uplifts carers, families and supporters and help us build connected, compassionate local spaces across Victoria.
Join the Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect Volunteer Program today.
Volunteer Expression of Interest
Speak with your local Connect Centre or Complete the short form below to register your interest.