Gippsland Lakes Complete Health (GLCH) volunteers gathered in Bairnsdale this week to hear about aged care reform, and what it means for those receiving Federal Government-subsidised support to stay living in their own homes.
The Federal Government has replaced its previous home care package program with a new scheme called Support at Home, with the aim of reducing wait times.
The session was led by GLCH’s Support at Home intake coordinator, Terry-Anne Gaskin, who outlined what the Federal Government’s aged care reforms will mean for people currently receiving or seeking in-home support.
“We are paddling our way through these waters. It’s a complex system, and we’re working closely with volunteers and clients to make it easier to navigate,” she said.
“Clients will continue receiving the same services from the same local staff they know and trust. We’re here to support them through every step of the transition.”
GLCH volunteer Frances McGrath, from Paynesville, said the forum helped her understand some of the changes the government was making
“From the outside, it’s very confusing to get involved in aged care services,” she said.
Bairnsdale Meals on Wheels volunteer Marg Porter said it was important older people in the community, were able to access affordable, local support.
“Some of the people we deliver to, if you don’t have family around you have no hope of understanding the changes. Having access to this type of information is important,” she said.
Terry-Anne said those with questions about how the reforms applied to their care, could call GLCH.
“We held this session, so volunteers feel informed about the changes ahead,” she said.
“We want to thank-you for the support you provide to some of our community’s most vulnerable members, and we know that often your visits can be the only person they see for the day.” For further information about volunteering please visit GLCH’s webpage or call volunteer engagement officer Karren Hackling on 5150 9388. For information about aged‑care supports please call 5152 0075.