September 2014 Newsletter3.05 MB

Accessible Living Options (ALO)
Newsletter
October 2014
Volume1, Issue 1
Welcome to our first ever
1
ALO updates
2
Neighbour Aid/Social Support
3
4
5/6
SSMT, Carers Strategy
Respite
Julie’s holiday
6
Community Support
Program
7
TeleCHAT, LifeCircle,
Lifechoices—Tim Henman
8
ComPacks, A Maze
9
Bringing up great kids, Free
phone legal advice
10
Life Time Care and Support,
My Aged Care
11
12/13
14
15
16
17
18
Ability Links, NDIS, A Poem
Case Management
Timebanking, Carers’ lunch,
AGM
REACH group
ALO’s philosophy on Human
Rights
Gala Day
Warm Spring Salad
Accessible Living options
ALO Launch—held on 3rd September and we
were delighted that our Mayor Gary Rush
‘’ALO ALO ’’ newsletter!!!
could attend and representatives from
It has been a very busy time since the birth of various government departments.
our new organisation Accessible Living
Gala Day – held in Bathurst on 12th
Options on 1st July 2014.
September was well attended and enjoyed by
The tasks completed to-date in such a short many—refer Page 17
space of time has been incredible, everyone
ALO have been promoting the name change
should be very proud of themselves.
and merger via media in the areas where we
Front Entrance—we have a new front provide service to ensure all are aware of the
entrance located in the middle of the build- changes.
ing. Work is finally underway for our new
ALO has been successfully appointed a
front entrance which will be fully wheelchair
provider of the ADHC Community Support
accessible. Thank you all for your patience.
Program see Page 6
ALO are not only updating all policies and
Refurbishment Committee has been formed
procedures but all aspects of the business
to update our Lifestyle Services facilities with
and services we provide. Our wonderful
some great ideas coming to the table.
staff have taken on many challenges given to
Research including discussions and visiting
them to make some exciting changes and
other centres has been fantastic—thanks to
learn new skills.
Glenray Industries and Cowra Special Needs
Margaret Riley our Service Development for sharing their knowledge and wisdom.
Manager is keen for any feedback on any
Strategic Planning—ALO is holding a series of
new or amended policies or questions you
focus groups, so please if you have ideas,
might have call her, on 6338 2303.
experiences about community sector your
Margaret has been very busy coordinating input is very welcome. Contact 6338 2345.
preparation for our Third Party Verification or
Volunteers— thanks to our wonderful
accreditation process, to ensure we meet all
gardening experts who have made just a
required Standards that we operate under.
difference to the appearance of the gardens
All staff are undergoing orientation to ALO, in the front of ALO. Spring at ALO is looking
this huge job will be complete by mid fabulous.
October 2014. This includes a series of
New Evacuation procedure in place, training
mandatory training sessions.
is currently being held for staff and
ALO has had success with four submissions participants to ensure all know the correct
for funding for various equipment, social procedures in case of an emergency.
support and contracting to a behavioural
Feedback Welcome! Please feel free in
specialist consultant.
providing feedback about our new newsletter
or any suggestions, ideas about how you
would like to see ALO progress into new
phase of NDIS.
1
October 2014
Neighbour Aid/Social Support — Denise and Shirley
Well here we are, summer is fast approaching and another year is rolling by. It has been a busy year so far
and I hope an enjoyable one for all involved in the Neighbour Aid Social /Support program.
We have been extremely busy in the office completing volunteer appraisals as well as ensuring the
participant service agreements and service plans are kept up to date.
We would sincerely like to thank Bathurst RSL Club, Bathurst Panthers and Bathurst Regional Council for
supporting us yet again with the Club Grants 2014 funding. A huge thank you also to Oberon Council and
community of Oberon for their donation, these fund make a huge difference to so many people who are
socially isolated.
Since our last newsletter the group outings have enjoyed the Howie Brothers in Concert at Bathurst RSL
Club, a mystery trip to Cumnock and another breathtaking presentation of the Antarctica by Sylvia
Latham. I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of Neighbour Aid group outing members to thank
Sylvia for the wonderful presentation. The photography is spectacular and we look forward to another
presentation when she has time.
Our volunteers have also been very busy providing their usual great service of visiting people at home and
supporting participants to visit places of interest in their communities. To all those people that volunteer
their time to ALO we thankyou….you make such a difference in all that ALO is trying to provide to so
many. Your commitment also to attending training that ALO’s provides is fantastic as we try to make it
relevant and interesting with a little bit of ‘’fun and food’’ in the session.
Our small activity groups are continuing to meet regularly. If anyone is wishing to join the Oberon
Wednesday social group, the Bathurst Wednesday craft, Thursday recreation or Monday garden groups,
please call. We are also hoping to start a Men’s craft group and a Movie group. Please call to find out
more 6338 2302.
If you, or anyone you know, is not able to get out and about in their community to socialise please call
6338 2302 for further information.
Old magazines. Lifestyle Services wish to utilise them for craft
etc. You can drop them in at ALO or call 6338 2345 and we can
arrange for someone to collect them from your home.
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October 2014
Mobile Lunch and Social Club (SSMT) — Denise and Shirley
Accessible Living Options, in partnership with Bathurst Meals on Wheels and Bathurst Community
Transport are continuing to host the program called the “Mobile Lunch and Social Club” for 2014/15
financial year and it is growing in demand and numbers with approx. 69 people keen to attend each
event. There have been 8 luncheons held since it commenced in April 2014 with an average of 28 participants and 4 volunteers attending. The participants are supported with transport and volunteers help out
on the day. Some meals are provided by the great staff and volunteers at Meals On Wheels.
Thankyou to all associated with SSMT — it has been a great success with your continued support and
friendship.
The aim of SSMT is to link frail aged people, over 65 years of age, living in Sofala, Hill End, Trunkey Creek
and Rockley with their ‘’city friends’’ in Bathurst. Its about forming social networks within communities,
providing connections to people residing in Bathurst, rekindle friendships, have a wonderful lunch and
enjoy some entertainment. Local entertainers and presenters provide valuable information and an opportunity to have a laugh and listen to some great speakers, singers, music etc. So BIG Thank you to: –
Connect Hearing, Bathurst Community Transport, Bob Taylor, Isabel Wilkinson, Gwenda Davies, Oliver
Harris, Brian Beesley, Pat Alexander, Gabby Bolt and the children from Wattle Flat Public School.
Please call us if you want to know more about SSMT on 6338 2302
NSW Carers Strategy
Minister for Ageing and Disability Services, the Hon.
John Ajaka MLC, released the NSW Carers Strategy
at NSW Parliament House on 7 August 2014. The
NSW Carers Strategy is a five year plan to improve
the position of carers in NSW. Carers are the
family members and friends who provide ongoing
care and support to people who need it because
of disability, chronic illness, mental illness, dementia
or frail age.
each of the five focus areas: employment and
education; carer health and wellbeing; information
and community awareness; carer engagement; and
the evidence base about carers. It identifies the 16
projects that are the first to progress the work.
The Strategy was developed collaboratively and will
be implemented collaboratively with carers,
government, non-government, private and
academic sectors.
The Strategy sets out, at a glance, the vision for
carers and the planned reforms and outcomes for
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October 2014
Respite — Erin
Erin Trevor-Jones has stepped into the Respite Coordinator position from 1 st July 2014. The respite program provides a planned, short-term break for carers and families of people with a disability which aims
to enable them to continue in their caring role. To be eligible for the respite program, the person with a
disability must be under 65 years of age. Accessible Living Options provides respite in the following regions: Bathurst Regional Council, Lithgow City, Blayney Shire Oberon Shire and Kandos /Rylstone (part of
Mid-Western Region).
The respite program is flexible, to ensure individual needs are met whenever possible. Accessible Living
Options can provide respite in a number of ways, including in-home care, cottage style respite, assistance
with family holidays, one-on-one respite with a support worker and out-of-home activities such as movie
meal deals, supported holidays and camps.
If you require respite, or know someone who may benefit from the program, please contact the Respite
Coordinator Erin on 6338 2310 or [email protected].
Below is written by Leandra Fraser (mother/carer of Cody Fraser):
Just wanting to thank you and your organisation for the great zoo trip. It was definitely what we needed, it was very relaxing and being so close to the animals was wonderful. Zoo trip was a great experience.
Excellent accommodation, great tours and animal feeding. Was family friendly, children encouraged to ask
questions and interact with the animals. Banquet and breakfast good variety. Would recommend. My type
of camping!!!! Thank you so much for the opportunity. Jordan, Cody, Cooper and I had the best time and
so relaxing and the staff at zoo lodge were fantastic. Codywants to
now work at a zoo.
Jokes
Q: What does a baby computer call his father?
A: Data!
Q: What did the spider do on the computer?
A: Made a website!
Q: Why was the computer cold?
A: It left it's Windows open!
Q: What did the computer do at lunchtime?
A: Had a byte!
Q: Why did the computer squeak?
A: Because someone stepped on it's mouse!
Q: Why did the computer keep sneezing?
A: It had a virus!
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October 2014
Case Management — Julies Holiday in Perth
Hi, my name is Julie and I would like to thank Accessible Living Options for arranging my holiday to Perth
with CareAway Holidays. They were lovely people and I made new friends. We departed Sydney by
Qantas plane and our accommodation in Perth was at Assured Ascot Quays Apartment Hotel. It had great
coffee and giant blue velvet chairs at the restaurant but it was too cold to swim in the 25 metre pool.
Sightseeing Perth City above Kings Park
We went to the Perth Zoo and I saw elephants, cheetahs, lions and
giraffes. I loved the best, the orang-utans and gorillas sitting on
platforms on poles.
One afternoon we went shopping at Hillary’s Boat Harbour and had
lunch at the cafe on the wharf – we had the best time and I saw the
biggest, round and thick cheesecake I had ever seen, yummy prawns
and hot lamb. At night we had dinner and an entertainment cruise
on the Swan River.
We had a tour of the Fremantle Prison and there was a
café at the entrance with lots of pamphlets and souvenirs.
I bought a T-Shirt with a “key” picture on the front.
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October 2014
We went to AQWA Underwater World and we went in the underwater tunnel. A diver with an oxygen
tank on his back, was feeding the sharks, sting rays, turtles and fish. I loved the shopping and bought a
purse, ring and postcards.
We went on a boat to Rottnest Island which had heaps of
pushbikes!! About 300 of them including a bike with trainer wheels
for a little girl. We did sightseeing, had lunch and fed Quokkas with
peanuts and crumbs.
We flew home on a Virgin Australia plane. My Auntie and Uncle
picked me up from Sydney airport. Then I met mum and dad at
Penrith McDonald’s and went home.
Community Support Program — Erin
Accessible Living Options has now begun coordinating a new program known as the Community Support
Program (CSP). This program enables people with physical and/or neurological disability to manage their
personal care needs and be as independent as possible. Under this program, participants are able to
choose a service provider to manage their funds and provide their services. Participants receive around
35 hours per week of services in the home and are able to choose the types of services that best suit their
needs.
Our first participant commenced their program in August. As part of this program, we have recruited
support workers to provide the services in the home. We are currently in the process of recruiting
additional support staff as we hope more participants will choose Accessible Living Options as their
service provider.
Mental Health Month
Mental Health Month NSW is part of a national mental health promotion
campaign held throughout October each year.
The theme for Mental Health Month this year is ‘beYOUnique!’ This theme
promotes acceptance and an understanding of the impact that being proud of
who we are can have on our wellbeing.
Let’s celebrate our strengths and differences and be ourselves! This theme aims
to encourage all of us to consider our strengths and challenges and nurture our
own ‘unique worth’. We should also take the opportunity to support the people
in our lives and celebrate their own individual qualities that make them unique
House Wheelie Bins
ALO’s Lifestyle Services are trialling a new program for the participants to assist with. The participants along with support staff are wanting to help people who are unable to put their garbage or
recycle bins out for collection due to illness, frailty or have a disability. If we can help with this
task please phone 6338 2345 for more information.
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October 2014
TeleCHAT
LifeCircle
TeleCHAT - A regular phone call providing
friendship and support.
LifeCircle delivers professional training to
organisations working in the end of life arena.
Red Cross provides regular telephone calls to
people who have little or no social connection with
other people. Friendly volunteers call participants
at an agreed time, generally once a week, for an
open ended chat. Participants are matched with
volunteers based on their interests, hobbies and
availability. TeleCHAT is a free service.
The training provided enables organisations to
support those caring at end of life and to provide
timely information about the dying process as they
build carer resilience. Engagement between carers,
family, friends and community is encouraged as a
means of strengthening their capacity and to
ensure a well supported end of life experience.
Red Cross also provides a unique version of the service to people who are Aboriginal and/or Torres
Strait Islander called TeleYARN
TeleCHAT participant criteria:- For people who live
independently and have minimal social contact.
For further information Phone
1800 686 763
“Our purpose is to profoundly change the
experience and impact of dying by supporting the
people who are living this experience.”
Website: www.lifecircle.org.au
Life Choices — Tim Henman day, by Kerrie Spice
Tim has been thoroughly enjoying his one-on-one time out in the community. I pick him up between 9
and 9:30 a.m. We go to the pet shop where Tim loves patting the shop cat.
Sometimes we have errands to do for ALO which Tim loves to do as he loves helping people.
At 10:45 we go to the Salvation Army where Tim takes all the videos off the shelf and puts them back neat
and tidy. He enjoys wandering around the shop interacting with other people.
At 12 noon we drive out to the shop at Perthville where Tim purchases a salad sandwich for lunch.
We then go the Perthville Pub where he orders a diet coke to have with his lunch. When he has finished
socialising and eating his lunch, he gets organised to work. He usually washes all of the tables and chairs
in the beer garden and also the ones out the front of the pub.
Tim has also helped get the wood for the fires and squashed cardboard boxes for recycling. When he has
finished all of his jobs he orders a beer and sits and chats to the other patrons at the pub. At 2:30 we
head on back to Bathurst for Tim to get dropped off at home. Tim is always happy when I drop him home
which, to me, says he has had a good day.
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October 2014
ComPacks — Erin
ComPacks is a short term package of community
support services which aims to assist people to
safely return home from hospital. Anyone who is
discharged from a public hospital, regardless of
their age, is eligible for the program. The only
eligibility criteria is that the patient requires case
management and two or more community support
services. Some of the services ComPacks can
provide include assistance with meals, personal
care, domestic assistance, shopping, transport to
medical appointments and respite.
As of 1st July 2014, Accessible Living Options has
provided ComPacks packages in Lithgow and the
lower Blue Mountains. Due to a change in
ComPacks funding, we no longer service the
Bathurst, Oberon, Mudgee, Gulgong or Kandos/
Rylstone regions. ComPacks uses a brokerage
model, which means Accessible Living Options pays
a brokerage agency to provide the services such as
Home Care, and Catholic Community Services.
We have been receiving 2-3 referrals per week from
a number of hospitals including Lithgow, Blue
Mountains, Nepean and Westmead. Other case
managers and coordinators have been assisting Erin
with phone assessments during busy times. Despite
the vast changes in ComPacks, the program is going
well and in high demand.
A Maze
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October 2014
Bringing Up Great Kids
Join our reflective parenting program and learn how to provide a caring, supportive growing experience for
traumatised children. This program is for parents/carers of children 0-17yrs who have experienced domestic/
family violence, abuse, neglect, who are at risk of significant harm (ROSH), or are in 'out of home care'.
As a parent or carer of a traumatised child this course will help you to better understand your child’s experience of
the world, and how to enhance the connection, warmth and sensitivity between you and your child.
You’ll learn:
how trauma affects the developing brain
the messages that are hidden in behaviour
how mindfulness and reflection can support positive communication
how to understand your child's
experience of the world
how to communicate effectively with traumatised children
The course will give you the chance to reflect on how you were parented and how you operate as a parent.
Session Details: Each Monday from October 13th to November 17th [6 consecutive Mondays]
Time: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Venue: Central West Women’s Health Centre 20 William St., Bathurst
To Register: Contact Jem Maddox. Child/Adolescent Trauma Counsellor Ph: 6331 4133 or email:
[email protected]
Funded by:
Free Telephone Legal Advice
Salvos Legal Humanitarian, together with Mills Oakley Lawyers, offers a telephone advice service to clients in rural
and regional locations and anyone else unable to attend our physical offices due to disability, age or incarceration.
For details of face to face locations visit: www.salvoslegal.com.au/contact_us
How do I access the service?
1. Call (02) 8202 1500 for an appointment.
2. You will receive an appointment time for your telephone advice.
3. We will call you at your allocated appointment time to provide you with free legal advice.
Telephone advice will be delivered on
Wednesdays only between 10am and 4pm EST however appointments are required.
What types of legal problems can I get advice about from Salvos Legal
Humanitarian?
• Police matters
• Debt
• Neighbourhood disputes
• Centrelink matters
• Family law
• Housing matters
• Children’s Law
Telephone advice will be delivered on
Wednesdays only between 10am and 4pm EST however appointments are required.
Email: [email protected] Ph: (02) 8202 1500
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October 2014
Life Time Care and Support — Kate
The Lifetime Care and Support (LTCS) Scheme provides treatment, rehabilitation and Community Support
Services to people who have been severely injured in motor accidents in NSW, regardless of who was at
fault in the accident.
People who are eligible for the Scheme will have a spinal cord injury, brain injury, amputations, severe
burns or will be blind as a result of the accident.
The Scheme began for children under the age of 16 in motor accidents from the 1 st of October 2006 and
began for adults from the 1st of October 2007.
The Scheme is funded by a component of the costing of your Green Slips when registering vehicles.
To date, the Scheme has been about the clinical aspects of a person’s injury. As an approved Case
Manager for the Lifetime Care and Support Authority, I assist Participants of the Scheme to transition
from that clinical phase to community.
As always I consider it an honour to be part of a person’s life and I am extremely passionate about assisting someone to realise their hopes and dreams. Recently I was asked to share my profile with the
LTCS for their newsletter.
ALO provides Case management to LTCS participants for more information
go to the website: http://www.lifetimecare.nsw.gov.au/Scheme_Participants_Case_Management.aspx
My Aged Care Website
The My Aged Care Website guides people to where they can get the type of care they, or their loved ones, need.
The purpose of the site is to be helpful to those who want help. The website if very user-friendly. Here are some of
the choices you will see on the website:
If the website doesn’t have what you need then please ring 1800 200 422 to discuss your problem.
Monday to Friday: 8am to 8pm
Saturday: 10am to 2pm
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October 2014
Ability Links
Ability Links is a new state government initiative which kick started on July 1 st, and CareWest is excited to
be offering the ability links program within Central West NSW. Ability Links offers a new way to support
people with a disability, their families and carers especially those who are not traditionally known to the
disability service system. The program assists people to access community and mainstream services,
knowledge, resources and opportunities in their communities, to enable them to live the life they choose.
The model is designed to promote the rights of people with a disability to live inclusive lives in all spheres:
community, public, private and social. It is a critical part of the NSW transition to person-centred and
individualised funding arrangements.
How it works?
Ability Links coordinators known as Linkers provide a locally based first point of contact in communities to
improve access and engagement. Ability Links does not require an assessment (It is not needs based). It
targets those who are not traditionally known to the disability service system. Ability Links is not a Case
Management Service.
Linkers have three main roles:
Work with people with a disability, their families and carers to plan for their future;
Work with people and their families to help them become more confident, supporting them to achieve
their goals by building new networks and accessing support and services in their community; and
Work alongside communities and mainstream services, supporting them to become more welcoming and
inclusive.
Anyone can contact their local Linker. The Linker does not need proof of diagnosis or a
referral. The program has no assessment or eligibility criteria and is not time-limited.
For more information on Ability Links or to be put in contact with your local Linker call:
1300CareWest 1300 227 393
NDIS
A Poem
The NDIS is making progress: “We have reached
several key milestones as the NDIS continues the
transition to full scheme,” says NDIA Acting CEO Louise
Glanville. “To date, the NDIS has provided support to
children and adults with disabilities so they can enjoy
everyday activities like eating out, dancing, using a
playground, riding a bike, learning to drive, catching a
bus and joining groups to meet people and feel more
socially included.”
A Riddle Poem ~ by Christina Rossetti
There is one that has a head without an eye,
And there's one that has an eye without a head.
You may find the answer if you try;
And when all is said,
Half the answer hangs upon a thread.
The NDIS has made good use of assistive technologies
to help people with specific problems. A man with
hearing and vision problems has been able to achieve
his dream of becoming a lawyer. For more information
please go to: http://www.ndis.gov.au/news
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October 2014
Case Management — Michelle, Kate, Jenny, Nicole
Hi from the Case Management Team “Spring has sprung”
As spring represents all things new and fresh, it is exciting to report that
the Case Management Team is enjoying the merger of Evans
Community Options and Bathurst Independent Living Skills. The Case
Management Team view the birth of Accessible Living Options as being
a motivating and positive step into the future.
We are loving interacting with Participants from the Lifestyle Program who regularly visit us at our work stations
and we are able to visit next door throughout the day.
We once upon a time waved to the employees of BILS in the car park. Those people are now our work mates and
we are sharing work and life experiences, skills and lots of laughs. The skill base, blend of personalities and flair
truly enhances what ALO is now able to offer the communities of Bathurst, Lithgow, Blayney, Oberon, Portland,
Kandos, Rylstone, Wallerawang and surrounds.
We have a number of Participants transitioning to Community Support Packages from the “old” Attendant Care
Program.
The Community Support Program known as the CSP is labelled as the forerunner to the NDIS and encourages
Participants to make choices in relation to aspects of their in-home services. We have a number of Participants
who have chosen ALO as their preferred provider and we encourage Participants to look at their whole life when
making choices about on their services.
A great example of Participants having their say in relation to their services is Robert who recently chose ALO as his
preferred provider. At initial discussions, Robert advocated the terrific qualities of 3 key team members that were
providing assistance to him at home. Jo, Henry and Tabitha have now become invaluable members of the ALO
team after recruitment on Robert’s advice. Robert is a perfect example of
how people in our communities are having a say, making the big decisions
about what is best for them and receiving inclusive service.
The Case Management Team has been facilitating training at our ALO team
meetings.
Jenny Sparrow presented Human Rights which covered topics relating to
the early formation and development of Human Rights, principles,
responsibilities, legislation and service provision.
Jenny highlighted that every human being on the planet has the right to
dignity, respect, and freedom – whatever their race, colour, sex, sexual orientation, language, religion, political or
other opinion, national or social origin, wealth or other status.
Jenny told us that people with a disability have the right to participate in the community and have their own
individual autonomy. What this really means, is that anything which is about a person with a disability, should
involve that individual or their representative to guide any decision making and identify the chosen outcomes and
goals to achieve their hopes, dreams, wishes
and aspirations.
The Case Management team believes that there is more to life
than “just eating honey and stealing picnic baskets.”
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October 2014
ALO now offers Advocacy services to the frail aged and younger people with disabilities living in our communities
and their carers.
An Advocate is someone who talks with you and for you about things that you want or need in your life.
Advocacy ensures the human and legal rights of people are promoted and protected so that people can fully
participate in the community.
You can speak to an Advocate if you are unhappy with something in your life. It might be that you are unhappy
about the way that someone has treated you or spoken to you, the place where you live or work or it may be that
you are not able to have a say in what is happening with your life.
Advocacy involves representing and working with a person who may need support and encouragement to exercise
their rights. This can be -
 Supporting the person to make decisions that may affect their lives
 Supporting the person to take action on any matter related to discrimination
 Speak out on behalf of a person in a way that represents their best interest
 Providing information and advice so that the person can advocate for themselves
 Referral to other agencies if required
Anyone can refer to the Advocacy Service. The person being referred must give their permission first. If you are
interested in a referral contact our Intake Officer Erin. Erin can discuss with you who can help and how much it will
cost.
The Case Management Program has capacity to receive referrals at the moment. If you know somebody who is
frail aged or a younger person with a disability who is struggling to remain living in their home independently they
could be referred for assistance from the Case Management Team.
Carers are also eligible for Case Management if they are experiencing challenges relating to their caring role. It is
acknowledged by the team that the hardest job in the world is that of a carer looking after someone that they love.
If you require more information please call us on 6338 2345.
The Case Management Team
Michelle Bolt
Kate Miller
Jenny Sparrow
Nicole Bostelaar
Shredded Paper
Accessible Living Options has shredded paper available for a gold coin
donation.
Phone 6338 2345
Great for the garden or bedding for pets
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October 2014
Timebanking
Timebanking is a community program that allows the voluntary exchange of services between members.
It’s as simple as give an hour, receive an hour: by giving one hour to helping another member, you earn
one hour of time credits which can be used to receive services that are of personal value such as dog
walking, ironing, community gardening, massage, language tuition, painting, administrative assistance...
you're only restricted by your imagination.
Once you become a Timebanking member, you are able to search through all the offers of assistance and
requests for assistance made by other members.
If you see someone's offer or request that you could complete, or that you would find useful, you simply
contact that person to arrange the completion of the service.
For further information Phone Bathurst City Community Club 02 6331 3187
Or see the webpage www.timebanking.com.au
Bathurst Carers’ Lunch
You’re Invited
The Carer’s Lunch will be held on Monday, October 13th at 11:30 a.m.—2 p.m.
at the BATHURST CITY COMMUNITY CLUB.
Entry is free! The lunch is a 3-course meal and there will be prizes and entertainment.
Please RSVP by Wednesday, October 1st to:
Dias on 6332 2100 or email: [email protected]
or you can organise a table through your Carer’s Support Organisation.
AGM of Evans Community Options and Bathurst Living Skills
The Annual General Meeting will be held on October 27th, 2014
in the premises at 369 Stewart St, Bathurst.
The starting time is 4:30 p.m.
Please RSVP by October 20th to 6338 2345
Victim Services
Victim Services have launched a mobile app to help victims of crime and their families navigate the justice system. The Justice Journey app has been designed to reduce the stress often experienced by victims
involved in the criminal justice system, and provides information and guidance for victims from the time
they become a victim until after the court process has finished.
The free app can be found by following the links on the Victims Services website.
http://www.victimsservices.justice.nsw.gov.au/vss/vs_index.html
Accessible Living options
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October 2014
R.E.A.C.H Wellbeing Group for Depression & Bipolar Disorder
This group is for women who have depression or bipolar disorder. Are you looking for strategies to manage your
illness & wellbeing?
REACH is a nine-week psycho-educational wellbeing group program for women with a mood disorder, run by a
qualified Black Dog Institute trained Facilitator.
REACH is suitable for women over 18, who have lived with a diagnosis of depression or bipolar disorder for at least
one year. Eligible participants will also need to demonstrate:
Capacity to participate in a group setting
SESSSSION DETAILS
DATES: Each Thursday for 9 weeks
Commitment to attend 9 weekly sessions
from 16 Oct - 11 Dec 2014
Acceptance of their illness
TIME: 9.45am – 12.15pm
Motivation to implement ‘wellbeing’ strategies
Morning tea is provided
VENUE:
Topics include:
Central West Women’s
Health Centre
 fostering strengths,
20 William Street, Bathurst 2795
COST: $10 for the 9 week program
 dealing with loss & grief,
TO REGISTER
 identifying early warning signs & triggers,
Contact: Annele Watt Counsellor/Group Facilitator
T: 6331 4133
 nurturing wellbeing & support networks,
E: [email protected]
 creating a unique ‘Wellbeing Plan’.
Supported with funding from NSW Ministry of Health
(WLHD) & donations from Quota International of
Bathurst
Living Well Navigator
The Living Well Navigator [LWN] is a website hub designed to help our older Australians (NSW & ACT
focused) remain independent and stay connected in the community. LWN is designed to show how much
knowledge older Australians have and the contributions they can still make to society. They play a crucial
role both economically and culturally in our society in all of its areas. Dispelling the myths associated with
our older demographic is essential to the success of Living Well.
The secondary audience for the hub is the children who are trying to help their parents find the right solutions.
LWN will provide information, reviews and advice on all elements of moving into the over-55-years phase
of their lives. The portal has a number of areas: Work and Volunteering, Getting Around, Independent
Living , Supported Living and Travelling.
LWN website is at: www.mynrma.com.au/living-well-navigator.htm
Accessible Living options
15
October 2014
ALO’s Philosophy on Human Rights
Taken from the Governance Policy 1.1.3
ALO will ensure the following rights are put into practice throughout our services through sound policy,
procedure and practices:
Right to be Treated with Respect;
Every person is a person first, and has the right to be treated in a respectful manner, regardless of their race,
culture, religion, sex, age, disability, economic position or sexual preference. They also have the right to
privacy.
Right to Dignity and Independence;
Every person has the right to have services provided in a manner that respects their dignity and individuality.
They have the right to choose who provides that service and in how it will be provided. Their personal
information and records should be confidential at all times and kept in a secure place. All participants have the
right to retain and use personal possessions, with access to secure storage, in keeping with safety
requirements and other people’s rights.
Right to Quality Services that comply with highest standards;
Every person has the right to have services provided in a manner that complies with ethical, legal and
professional standards. They have the right to identify their own needs which form the basis of their individual
service plan and to have services provided in accordance with that plan. They have the right to be involved at
all levels of planning, development, delivery and assessment of their support plan. They have a right to an
equitable and fair service access process. Services provided should be in a manner that optimises quality of
life.
Right to Freedom form Harm;
Every person has a right to access services in a safe and secure environment free from harm or abuse. They
have the right to be free from physical, sexual, emotional, verbal and financial abuse. They have the right to
freedom from discrimination, harassment, punishment, exploitation or retribution.
Right to be fully informed;
Every person has the right to honest and accurate answers relating to service provision. They have the right to
view their records without undue difficulty and the right to have them corrected.
Right to Effective Communication;
Every person has the right to an environment that enables all to communicate openly, honestly and
effectively. They have a right to receive all information in a format which is appropriate and understandable by
the recipient.
Right to Complain.
Every person has the right to make a complaint, access advocacy and make suggestions and enquiries. They
have the right to make a complaint without fear of retribution and be fully informed of the complaints
process.
Duty of Care
While every effort will be made to adhere to this document and its intent, notwithstanding an individual’s
rights in relation to a dignity of risk, there will be times when ALO’s Duty of Care to an individual may be seen
to override an individual’s rights
Accessible Living options
16
October 2014
Central West Sports Ability Gala Day
The Central West Sports Ability Gala Day was held in Bathurst on 12 th
September 2014. Proudly supported by major sponsor Essential Energy,
the day was aimed at providing people with a disability the opportunity
to participate in a variety of modified sports and activities in a safe, fun
environment. The day is was hosted by Accessible Living Options.
Essential Energy's Regional Manager South Eastern, Phillip Green said
“Essential Energy is putting its support behind the event again this year.
The Central West Sports Ability Day is a perfect example of what our
community support program aims to deliver - supporting local events and
organisations that work hard to promote and celebrate community
spirit,"
The interest has been overwhelming with around 200 participants joining
in the day. People attended from Bathurst, Orange, Nyngan,
Coonabarabran, Parkes, Mudgee, Cowra, Young, Dubbo and the Blue
Mountains including many high school students from the area.
“The Central West Sports Ability Gala Day is a day designed to provide
people with a disability the opportunity to experience a variety of events
and activities with the focus on fun and participation. The events
included running, target throwing, novelty and the ever popular, hotly
contested relays!
Every event is designed for maximum
participation. The day was open to all people with a disability including
those with high support needs. This was a wonderful opportunity for
people with a disability to socialise and participate in a fun and safe day
of sports and activities,” said Robyn Wyatt, Lifestyle Services Manager
(Accessible Living Options).
The community of Bathurst was very supportive of the day and we would
like to acknowledge the support of Justin Adams and The Scots School
whose students have developed and run the events for the past five
years. The Bathurst Athletics Club who have always supported the day
by supplying equipment and volunteers and the Bathurst Lions Club
whose members have cooked the BBQ and kept everyone fed. As well as
all you donated sausages, bread etc, 2BS, B Rock FM, Bathurst Regional
Council and Bernardis Supa IGA,
Accessible Living options
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October 2014
Accessible Living Options
Accessible Living Options was formed in July 2014 as the
result of the merger of two Bathurst services – Evans
Community Options (ECO) and Bathurst Independent
Living Skills (BILS). ECO was formed in 1995 and
provided a range of services to enable people to remain
living in their homes. BILS was formed in 1993 and
provided Day Programs to adults with disabilities.
369 Stewart St,
Bathurst NSW 2795
Phone: 6338 2345
Fax: 6332 5844
Email: [email protected]
Nominate a worker or volunteer for a job well done.
Congratulations Erin, Rhys, Vicki, Kerrie, Karen, Shannon, Jan, Michelle, Kate, Jenny,
Denise, Nicole was nominated for a job well done.
Is there someone who you think has done a great job? Ring 6338 2345 to nominate
them for a gift of appreciation.
Warm Spring Salad
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
 1 cup uncooked quinoa
but note they are not GF)
 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
 1 leek, sliced into rounds or half
moons
 2 garlic cloves, minced
 1 bunch asparagus, ends broken
off
and chopped into 2 cm pieces
 1 cup diced strawberries (optional)
 3/4 cup fresh or frozen peas
 1 cup fresh parsley, roughly
chopped
 2-3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, to
taste
 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
 1/2 tbsp pure maple syrup (or other
sweetener)
 1/4 tsp fine grain sea salt & lots of
pepper to taste
 lemon zest, for garnish
Accessible Living options
1. Rinse quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and place into a medium
pot. Add 1.5 cups vegetable broth (or water) and bring to a low
boil. Reduce heat to low-medium, cover with tight-fitting lid,
and cook for 15-17 minutes, or until fluffy and all the water is
absorbed. Fluff with fork, remove from heat, and let sit covered
for 5 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, grab a very large skillet or wok. Sauté the leek
and garlic in the oil for about 5 minutes over medium heat.
Season generously with salt and pepper. Add in the asparagus
and sauté for another 5-10 minutes or until the asparagus is
just tender, but still a bit crisp. Stir in the strawberries
(optional), peas, and parsley. Heat for a few minutes and then
remove from heat.
3. Whisk together the dressing
ingredients (olive oil, lemon juice,
maple syrup, and 1/4 tsp fine grain
sea salt) to taste. Pour dressing
onto skillet mixture and stir in the
cooked quinoa. Season to taste
with salt and pepper & enjoy!
18
October 2014