by Carol T | 26, Oct 2021 | Aged care
Leaders in the aged care sector are invited to a Diversity Communities of Practice zoom on Tuesday, November 9, 2pm to 4pm. The Diversity Communities of Practice zoom will give you the opportunity to:
*Learn from your peers in the sector on how to develop a diversity strategy
*Explore the Aged Care Diversity Framework and Inclusive Service standards through facilitated conversations with diversity mentors
To learn more about the Diversity Communities of Practice and Terms of Reference visit HERE.
To register for the Diversity Communities of Practice webinar on 9 November from 2pm to 4.00pm (Melbourne time) via Zoom, please click HERE.
by Carol T | 26, Oct 2021 | Aged care, Housing and homelessness
The National Ageing Research Institute (NARI) released a position paper on transforming the system of home care for older Australians, which analysed the Federal Government’s responses to key home care recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety and what more needs to be done to ensure a secure and safe system for older people.
Director of Clinical Gerontology at NARI, Associate Professor Frances Batchelor, says the NARI research found that the home care system should be needs-based and not rationed, similar to how the healthcare system currently works.
“The Royal Commission highlighted that older Australians want to remain at home, but the current aged care system is not providing adequate access to services and supports to help them remain at home,” Assoc. Prof. Batchelor said.
“While the Federal Government has committed to providing additional home care packages and other incremental reform, this will only provide temporary relief. Without substantial change to the ration-based system, the waitlist will only build up again as more and more people require aged care at home into the future.
“Funding should be linked to individual needs and care planning. Under the current model, bundled funding is allocated to a limited number of older people in need. This model lacks flexibility and is not truly tied to the unique needs of each older person.
“Funding needs to be better distributed so it is allocated in a more cost-effective way, to ensure every person in need of care at home is able to receive it, when they need it.”
The Federal Government is committing $7.5 billion to support older Australians to remain living at home for longer, including $6.5 billion to provide an additional 80,000 Home Care Packages by 2023.
In the recommendations from the Royal Commission, it suggested a needs-based approach to home care, however, the Federal Government did not make any commitment to address this suggestion.
While NARI appreciates that the Government is making positive changes in the sector, they don’t believe the current system will be able to handle a growth in the number of people who need to access home care services.
NARI would support a reformed home care system that is more streamlined, effective and flexible when undertaking a needs assessment, which would improve the overall experience for older people and their families when accessing aged care services.
The full article can be read on this link: https://www.agedcareguide.com.au/talking-aged-care/nari-calls-for-huge-home-care-reform
To view the National Ageing Research Institute Position Paper, head to: https://www.nari.net.au/position-paper-transforming-the-system-of-home-care-for-older-australians
by Carol T | 26, Oct 2021 | Aged care, COVID-19
Mental Health Australia was part of a consortium with Swinburne University that undertook research into the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of Residential Aged Care residents and staff. The research found elevated levels of anxiety and feelings of loneliness resulting from reduced family visits and recreational outings and constant news coverage. It recommended increased access to counselling and training for staff in mental health.
Summary of the article can be found here: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07317115.2021.198567
by Carol T | 20, Oct 2021 | Aged care, COVID-19, Health and wellbeing (including Mental Health)
The Older Persons Advocacy Network is hosting a free webinar: Your Wellbeing: social and emotional Strategies on October 26, 11.30am – 12.30pm.
The Older Persons Advocacy Network supports older people to prepare to live their lives to the fullest as COVID-19 restrictions ease around the country.
Learn how to stay socially connected and take care of your emotional wellbeing. The panel wants to share their ideas with you on October 26 and you can submit questions for them to answer! The panel includes:
• Gail Kenning, University of NSW Researcher
• Val Fell, Member, OPAN National Older Persons Reference Group
• Maurie Voisey-Barlin, Creative Elder Engagement Specialist
• Dr Anne-Nicole Casey, Postdoctoral Research Associate, Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/your-wellbeing-social-and-emotional-strategies-registration-169431366779
by Carol T | 20, Oct 2021 | Aged care, Housing and homelessness, Public and community transport, Research reports and information
The 2021 Australian Social Policy Conference will be held online from Monday October 25 to Friday November 5.
There will be no registration fee and registrations are now open via Eventbrite.
The conference is hosted by the UNSW Social Policy Research Centre, with session convenors from across Australia.Conference sessions will address contemporary issues in the context of ongoing social policy themes, including:
• Poverty, welfare and social inequality
• Communities, families and children
• Digital technologies and social policy
• Disability and rights
• Human services
• Ageing
• Housing and locational disadvantage
• Health and social policy
• First Nations
• Chinese social policy
To register: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/australian-social-policy-conference-2021-tickets-182302701287
To view Program: https://www.aspc.unsw.edu.au/program-overview
For any other information relating to the conference, please email [email protected]
by Carol T | 20, Oct 2021 | Aged care, Research reports and information
The NSW Department of Communities and Justice is pleased to announce the launch of the Reducing Social Isolation for Seniors Grant Program – Round 2.
The NSW government has established a $600,000 fund to address social isolation for older people and to fund projects that address the challenges and barriers that contribute to social isolation. Following the success of the first round of grants in 2021, we are pleased to commence Round 2.
Applications are open to local council and incorporated not-for-profit community organisations that meet the eligibility criteria. Applications will be considered for projects that help older people to participate, contribute to and be included in their communities in NSW.
Up to $600,000 will be allocated in one-off funding opportunities of between $10,000 and $60,000 for initiatives and projects to reduce social isolation for older people.
Applications are OPEN now until November 15 .
You can find more information at: Reducing Social Isolation for Seniors Grant Program , or email [email protected]
Please share information and the link to the Reducing Social Isolation for Seniors Grant Program with your members and any groups in your community that may be interested.
by Carol T | 20, Oct 2021 | Aged care, Research reports and information
Macquarie Aged Care is holding a Policy Forum on October 26.
This seminar in the Macquarie Aged Care Policy Forum series takes up questions of workforce development that remain as ’unfinished business‘ from the Aged Care Royal Commission and the Australian Government‘s response. It will be presented as part of the Australian Social Policy Conference, convened by the Social Policy Research Centre, University of New South Wales.
The chair is Prof Gabrielle Meagher, Macquarie School of Social Sciences, Macquarie University
Presenters are
- Annie Butler from the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation
- Prof Denise Jepson from the Centre for Ageing and Aged Care, School of Management, Macquarie University
- Prof Gabrielle Meagher from the Macquarie School of Social Sciences, Macquarie University
The Aged Care Royal Commission‘s 13 recommendations covered the four areas of workforce planning: registration and minimum qualifications; education, training and skills development; and pay and conditions. While the Government has accepted most of the recommendations, at least in principle, actions to be taken are spread across the Aged Care Workforce Industry Council and other bodies, a broad whole-of-Government Care Workforce Strategy and the JobTrainer Fund, and also depend on decisions of the Fair Work Commission.
Speakers at the seminar will assess the adequacy of these responses, the prospects for successful implementation and the scale and nature of outcomes that can be realised in the short and longer term. The focus will be on the residential aged care workforce and the capacity for building capability for workforce development across the sector.
Each speaker will provide a brief paper identifying the major aspects of aged care workforce policy on which they consider further action is necessary. These will be available online ahead of the seminar. In the first part of the seminar, each speaker will briefly talk to their paper, followed by a discussion among panel members. The second part of the seminar will provide the opportunity for questions and comments by other participants.
The seminar will be online via Zoom and is free. You can register directly here:
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/the-aged-care-workforce-tickets
Registration and the full program for the full Australian Social Policy Conference, to be held online from Monday 25 October to Friday 5 November (also free) is available here:
https://www.aspc.unsw.edu.au
Missed the first seminar? Listen on ABC Radio National Big Ideas, from 18 October, on radio, online or by podcast.
Final Seminar for 2021: Tuesday 7 December, System Design: Reshaping aged care in the home and community
by Carol T | 20, Oct 2021 | Aged care, Families and children, Health and wellbeing (including Mental Health)
What is Carer Gateway?
Carer Gateway provides in-person, phone and online services and support to Australia’s 2.65 million unpaid carers.
By calling 1800 422 737 Monday to Friday between 8am and 5pm, you can talk to a Carer Gateway service provider who will help you access services and support.
The dedicated Carer Gateway website (carergateway.gov.au) connects you with online support and information.
by Carol T | 13, Oct 2021 | Aged care, Health and wellbeing (including Mental Health), Services and support groups
This week is National Carers Week running from October 10–16. It is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the outstanding work of Australia’s 2.65 million unpaid carers. Learn more about National Carers Week here.
by Carol T | 13, Oct 2021 | Aged care, Health and wellbeing (including Mental Health)
The role of Dementia Support Australia is to improve the quality of life for people living with dementia and their carers. We do this by working in partnership with the person living with dementia and their care network to understand the causes or triggers that led to changes in behaviour.
These behaviours can be in response to a variety of factors including the environment, stimuli, or social interactions or may be a more complex interplay of medical issues as a result of their diagnosis. Dementia is experienced differently by each person and our work seeks to recognise and respond individually to these changes.
A 24 hour helpline can be accessed by phoning: 1800 699 799 or more information can be found here https://dementia.com.au/about/overview
The organisation also has a resource library for people with dementia and their carers to learn more about dementia.
by Carol T | 13, Oct 2021 | Aged care
The CHSP 2022-23 Extension Readiness Survey closed on August 2, 2021. A total of 800 responses (or 57% response rate) was received, with coverage from all Service Types and Aged Care Planning Regions.
Payment in Arrears Survey: Transitioning to payment in arrears will be a significant change for many CHSP providers. The survey provided the health department with a better understanding of providers’ current situation, business practices and readiness for change.
The survey has given the department insights into the issues associated with moving to payment in arrears. Specifically, the need to consider the fixed costs of delivering services, an organisation’s IT and their ability to track funding at the individual client level, and service provider cashflow/reserves.
Thank you to all the CHSP providers who completed the survey.
The full report can be accessed here:
https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/commonwealth-home-support-programme-extension-readiness-survey-results
by [email protected] | 13, Oct 2021 | Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, Aged care, Disability and inclusion, Families and children, Health and wellbeing (including Mental Health), Public and community transport, Services and support groups, Young people
Byron Shire Council invites you to complete the All Welcome – Access and Inclusion Community Survey to inform the next Disability Inclusion Action Plan.
Please take a few minutes to tell us how you feel about access and inclusion in the Byron Shire and what we can do to improve it.
When something is accessible, everyone can use it.
When something is inclusive, everyone can take part.
If you prefer a paper copy, you can download the easy read version and drop it off in person to Byron Shire Council at 70 Station Street, Mullumbimby, or email it to [email protected]
Survey closes 19 November 2021
by Social Futures Community Hub | 6, Oct 2021 | Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, Aged care, COVID-19, Disability and inclusion, Employment opportunities, Families and children, Health and wellbeing (including Mental Health), Housing and homelessness, LGBTIQA+, Public and community transport, Services and support groups, Young people
This week is Community Sector Climate Change Advocacy Week (4-8 October)! Climate change is increasing extreme weather events that threaten our environment, as well as people’s homes, livelihoods, health, quality of life, employment and increases risks and burdens for future generations. See below for three key ways to support #FairFastClimateAction during Community Sector Climate Change Advocacy week – together, we can help push for fair, fast and inclusive climate change action this decade!
A new series of interactive maps developed by the ACOSS/UNSW Sydney Poverty and Inequality Partnership shows how different parts of the country have been impacted by the economic effects of the pandemic. These maps informed yesterday’s COVID Income Support: Analysis of income support in the COVID lockdowns in 2020 and 2021 report. Check out the maps and the report here: https://bit.ly/3ip8j7I
Quick reminder that the 2021 ACOSS Annual General Meeting is coming up on Monday 8 November. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and associated health and safety concerns, the meeting will be held virtually. Register here.
by Social Futures Community Hub | 6, Oct 2021 | Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, Aged care, COVID-19, Employment opportunities, Families and children, Funding and grant opportunities, Health and wellbeing (including Mental Health), Housing and homelessness, LGBTIQA+, Public and community transport, Research reports and information, Services and support groups, Young people
The $50 million Social Sector Support Fund was announced by the NSW Government in August 2021. It is part of the $200 million support package for not-for profitsopens in new window.
The SSSF is for eligible charities and Not-For-Profits (NFPs) in the social, health, disability and animal welfare service sectors in NSW. The Fund aims to help these organisations continue to deliver services to the community amidst increased demand, and also retain their workforce through COVID-19 outbreaks.
The Fund is targeted at organisations that are ineligible for the NFP JobSaver scheme and are experiencing an increased demand for services and/or a decline in income. Grants paid under the SSSF may include different allocation methods, such as direct payments, an open grants application, and workforce surge payment to support organisations which have had to stand down or temporarily replace staff (e.g. due to self-isolation requirements).
DCJ is administering this fund. The SSSF webpage will be update as more information is available on eligibility, application and assessment processes. SSSF grants will be delivered flexibly to ensure NFPs are supported and can continue to provide services to vulnerable people and communities.
You can register your interestopens in new window for the SSSF. Registration will close on 5:00PM Friday 8 October 2021.
The registration process is simple and will ask for information about your organisation and the services you provide. This will help DCJ to design the processes to effectively allocate SSSF grants. There is no funding commitment from DCJ or by your organisation in registering for the SSSF.
Please note: if you are already receiving the JobSaver paymentopens in new window or will be applying for the NFP JobSaver payment then you will be ineligible for a SSSF grant.
For enquiries, please e-mail: [email protected]
by Carol T | 6, Oct 2021 | Aged care, Families and children, Health and wellbeing (including Mental Health)
What exactly is elder abuse? Elder abuse can be defined as a single or repeated act or lack of appropriate action, such as in circumstances of neglect, which causes harm or distress to an older person. This may occur in any relationship where there is an expectation of trust between the older person and the person responsible for the abuse or neglect. These relationships may involve family, friends, carers or service providers.
Changes in personal living arrangements, ongoing or developing health issues, and supporting adult children through hardship are circumstances that can create fertile ground for elder abuse. Commonly accepted types of elder abuse include neglect, sexual, physical, financial, social and psychological abuse. Often people experience more than one form of abuse at a time.
Free support services for people experiencing elder abuse exist around the country. These include services which provide legal help and social work and mediation support. For more information on the free help which is available visit the Community Legal Centres Australia website.
For more information, go to the following article –
https://nationalseniors.com.au/news/latest-finance/elder-financial-abuse-are-you-being-financially-and-emotionally-abused-know-the-signs-and-take-action?
