VOLUNTEERS are wanted for Ballarat Health Service’s Buddy Up program.BHS physiotherapist Anna Wong Shee said it was hoped to extend the program to the Base hospital’s acute wards.She said typical volunteer activities included sitting with patients and doing one-to-one activities, such as playing cards, jigsaws, quoits and board games, talking to patients about news of the day, listening to patients and encouraging talking about the past, making sure the patient was wearing their glasses and hearing aids, chatting with patients during mealtimes and helping with walking and exercise.Ms Wong Shee said volunteers usually worked three-hour shifts and did not provide clinical care or other duties performed by hospital staff.Volunteers also receive training in helping patients with memory and thinking problems.Clare Hercus and Lorraine Shoesmith, two current volunteers, work in the Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit.“The patients seem to anticipate us being there and appreciate that we are there to help improve their recovery,” Ms Hercus said.An information session on the Buddy Up program will be held on May 18.For further information, contact BHS volunteer co-ordinator Sue Jakob on 5320 6931 or Anna Wong Shee on 0400 190 288.