Volunteer Snapshot: Hung Anh

Hoang* is a female Vietnamese client with two children who went to our office at the South Eastern Melbourne Vietnamese Associations Council Inc in Springvale to seek out our help. I welcomed the client and introduced my role to her as a community worker. As a community worker I explained to her about the client and worker responsibility and that she would agree to the terms of confidentiality and disclosure.

 I began the interview with Hoang in a calm and relaxed state and have her to explain her situation which was that she was experiencing domestic violence and also worrying about her financial situation. I suggested to Hoang that she should see the Department of Human Services where I explained they can assist her with her financial situation for her situation. I also recommend her to go to see the Young Vietnamese Women’s Group where she can receive support for mental and physical wellbeing. Talking further with her issue I find out that she is experiencing a lot of stress due to rental payment and aside from the Department of Human Service I also suggest and help her to fill out a priority access application for Victoria housing.

 By the end of the interview Hoang felt more relaxed, calm and at ease because we have given her a range of places to help her out on her particular set of situations. I have given her the address and telephone number of all the places suggested and the numbers would also include a translator or someone who can speak her language. Also I explained if she have an issue with any of the place suggested or with anything else she can come back anytime and I would be happy to help her. She was happy that I was able to help and guide her through her situation.

*not her real name.