The Member and Volunteer Programs team is pleased to announce that an updated version of the Vincentian Visitation Guidelines will be available to members shortly. 

These guidelines have been designed to be an easy-to-read Conference tool that provides a pragmatic model for how the Society responds to the needs of the people we assist.

They were updated last year in consultation with a number of representative members from all Central Councils who provided feedback and insights on their ways of working, as well as the challenges members encounter when working in community.

This updated version reflects recent changes in the way members work, including the introduction of the Client Assistance Management System (CAMS) and Member & Volunteer System (MAVS); greater awareness of risk around privacy; and a stronger emphasis on streamlining our referral pathways to help the people we assist move towards stability.

From initial welcome to post interaction follow up, The Visitation Guidelines are an excellent place to find best practice approaches to visitation experience that members have developed over many years. 

The new guidelines also incorporate the Catholic Social Teaching Principles and a practical framework for describing the various steps involved in a visitation or interaction with the people we assist.

The new guidelines have been divided into two parts:

Part 1 provides guidance around how our Mission, Vision and The Rule can be applied; best practice for assisting people in the home or in a care and support centre; relationship building and respecting people’s choices; giving a hand up and protecting people’s privacy.

Part 2 provides checklists for safe visitations; tips for effective communication; lists the material and non-material assistance that is available; has advice on self-care, sharing the workload and welcoming new members; outlines opportunities for enrichment and learning; and contains useful resources and contact.

The Society will release the updated Guidelines in March, 2026. Communications will be sent out closer to the date.